Autumn Checklist

Really beginning to feel like fall now with the rain and cooler temperatures today and the rest of the week. Thought this would be a good time to share this information. A key to protecting the investment you’ve made in your home is by following a regular maintenance schedule. By performing preventative maintenance on an on-going basis, you’ll avoid many of the big ticket repair items that can lower the value of your home. Here are helpful checklists for monthly and fall maintenance.
Monthly
		Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector.
		Check the filters on your heating and cooling systems.  Be sure to clean and change according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
		If you have a humidifier or an electronic air filter, check these as well.
		Check faucets for drips.  Check plumbing for leaks.

Autumn

Smoke Alarm / Carbon Monoxide Detector
		Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector.
		Change the batteries in both.  This should be done twice a year.
Furnace / Heating System
		Have your system serviced by a qualified service company.
		If you have electric baseboard heaters, vacuum them to remove dust.
		Remove the grills on forced air systems and vacuum inside the ducts.
		If you use a portable humidifier, it’s time to clean it.
Water Heater
		Extend its life expectancy by draining a gallon or two of water from your hot water heater at least twice a year.
Windows and Doors
		Put up storm windows.
		Remove screens from the inside of casement windows to allow air from the heating system to keep condensation off window glass.
		Ensure windows and skylights close tightly.
		Make sure all doors to the outside shut tightly.  Renew weather stripping as required.
Outside
		Check your chimney for obstructions, such as bird’s nests.
		Clean gutters and test downspouts to ensure proper drainage from the roof.
		Make sure the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation wall.  Remove mulch from the foundation wall as well.  This helps prevent water damage.
		Drain and store outdoor hoses.  Prepare your outdoor faucets for winter freezes.
		Protect young trees and bushes for winter and winterize gardens.
		Trim shrubs and trees so that they clear the foundation, exterior walls, and roof of the house.
		Store outdoor furniture.
Well Water / Septic Tank
		If you have well water, test the water quality. Testing for bacteria twice a year is suggested.
		If you have a septic tank, measure the sludge and scum to determine if the tank needs to be emptied before spring.  As a general rule, septic tanks should be pumped out at least once every three years.