With fall now in full swing, here are our October home maintenance tips.
Remove or cover air conditioners
Now that air conditioning season is over, it’s time to put them away or at minimum install a cover. It’s a good idea to run your unit on “Fan Only” for several hours to help remove some or all of the water that sits inside and often spills when moving them. The next step is to clean out the intake filter so it is ready for next year. Then, get some help if needed and remove to store for next year.
Windows washed, screens up and storm windows down
Now that your heating system is beginning to run, its time to get your storm windows closed for energy efficiency. During this process you may want to consider window washing as well. As every home is different, window washing may require working on a ladder or staging and using a professional may be the best way to go. If you instruct them to leave your storm windows closed, you will be prepared for cold weather as well.
Weather Strip doors and windows
Have loose fitting doors and windows? Some time spent filling the gaps will make your home feel warmer and help you save on your heating bills. There are several different types of weather stripping available at hardware and home improvement stores. Many are peel and stick and others will require staples or nails. Some products are best for a one season fix and others can provide a long-lasting fit. When you make your purchase, discuss the pros and cons with your store associate.
Add door sweeps to drafty doors with gaps
Door sweeps can be added to the interior side of your doors to close any drafty gaps. There are several types available that can be cut to size and placed along the bottom of your doors. Make sure that you have clearance over carpets and door mats before installing.
Dryer vent
Cleaning your dryer vent regularly results in faster drying time and significant energy savings. Excessive lint build-up is also a fire hazard that results in thousands of fires each year nationwide. There are excellent dryer vent cleaning tools available and they all come with instructions for safe and efficient clean out of your dryer vent. If you prefer, there are professional services that can do it for you.
Basement Declutter
As the temperature falls you will be looking for storage for your outdoor items as well as space to work on home maintenance projects out of the weather. Time to inventory the items in your basement, think about donating, selling or throwing stuff away that is not being used. Look for paint and chemicals that may be dried up or obsolete and dispose of them properly according to your local regulations. This will make your basement safe, clean and ready for use in the winter and provide easy access to your mechanical and electrical equipment when a repair is needed.
Patio furniture maintenance
As sad as it is to move indoors after enjoying your outdoor furniture all summer, taking a little extra time to care for your patio set now will keep everything pristine for spring’s return.
Plastic, vinyl, and synthetic wicker can all be easily maintained with some soapy water and a garden hose. For metal furniture it’s a great time to remove loose paint and rust, prime and re-coat. store or cover.
Lawn maintenance
October is a great time for lawn maintenance. Some lawn care now will prepare your grass for the winter and make for a lush lawn in the spring. Here are some tips you should consider.
- Aerate your lawn
Aeration makes small holes that allow air, water and nutrients to penetrate the roots. This will allow your lawn to grow deeper and become stronger.
- Spread seed to fill in bare spots
Seeding in the fall is so much easier and more effective than waiting till next year. The cool weather and lower sun angle help hold moisture and minimize burnout.
- Fertilize
Fertilizing now will help your lawn build strength before the winter weather and flourish in the spring.
- Keep watering and cutting as needed
It’s still too early to give up on mowing. At this point our lawns are still growing quickly and any prolonged dry spell will make watering necessary. Mowing removes and mulches any leaves that have begun to fall as well.
Enjoy the crisp days of October. Experience the foliage, Halloween spirits and maybe a cider donut or two. Watch for part 3 of our fall home maintenance tips next month.