As the nights and mornings get cool and the wind turns crisp, it’s time to take advantage of the mild days and get your house ready for a long, cozy winter of Netflix binges.
Outside:
- Update your garden with perennials like peonies or hydrangea
- Plant bulbs, trees and shrubs you’d like for next spring
- Leaf clearing doesn’t have to be a huge task—some leaves are helpful on your garden beds, and mowing leaves into yard mulch is preferred over raking and blowing. Just remember to make sure you get the leaves small enough with the mower to not hurt your lawn
- Clean and inspect your gutters and downspouts
- Inspect your roof
- Roll hoses and store them for winter
- Drain and shut off outside faucets and sprinkler systems
- Stock up on seasonal firewood or any other alternative heat fuel you might need
- Clean, close, and cover your pool
Inside:
- Have your HVAC system serviced along with your furnace and ductwork—a well maintained system can prevent future problems. Check your filters, test your thermostat, and make sure your vents are cleaned and working properly
- If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, it’s an inexpensive upgrade that will allow you to control the heat throughout the day and lower your energy bills
- If you have a boiler system, get it checked and drained and refille
- Check your chimney and have it cleaned before you begin burning fuel
- Check windows for drafts. Install your storm doors and windows for extra protection
- The dryer is a huge fire hazard, so clean the dryer vent and have it checked by a HVAC specialist
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries as needed
- Begin and complete any inside improvement projects such as painting
Photo by Cody Hughes @clhughes21
