Maintaining your home on a regular basis is a good habit to form. It’s also a good idea to keep a record of your home maintenance routine to pass on to the new owners of your home when you sell it.
With fall here and winter weather fast approaching, taking these small home maintenance steps now can help protect your home – saving you money and headaches later.
Shut off outside water faucets. Close valves inside the house, then turn on the outside spigot to drain any remaining water from the line. Some newer homes have a pin at the shut-off valve that must be opened to let air in the line, which help keep pipes from freezing.
Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves, branches and other debris. Clogged gutters can cause water and ice to collect under your shingles, potentially damaging your roof. Clean outside drains of leaves to prevent water back-up into your basement.
Change your furnace filter (or clean it, if washable) at least every two months. A clean filter limits dust, improves the efficiency of the furnace, and keeps utility costs low. Clear the area around your furnace, so that air can circulate and to avoid a fire hazard.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors once a month and replace old batteries promptly. Each floor of your home should have detectors. Properties with gas heat or a wood-burning fireplace should also have a carbon monoxide detector.
Have your chimney professionally cleaned once a year if you use it frequently. Dispose of ashes in a metal bucket since warm ashes have the potential to start a fire.
Heller Coley Reed can connect you with home service providers and share tips to keep your home in good condition. And if you’re planning to sell your home, HCR can also advise you on the best ways to prepare it to maximize your investment. Contact us at [email protected] or call 301.674.2829.