- Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: It is a good time to check in on your home’s safety devices. It is wise to replace batteries and test your detectors every 6 months. Using daylight savings time is a good reminder to check on your home’s detectors. Use a ladder to get up there and make the necessary adjustments. Unless you’re very tall, then good on you.
- Rake leaves: There is some debate over the “let it lie” theory to fall leaves. If you have a minimal amount of trees in your yard, you may be able to get away with this. It certainly is a more convenient method. But if like us, you live in a wooded area, you will need to remove the leaves. Layers of leaves sitting all winter can prevent new growth come spring. Not to mention, the critters that may cozy up and make a nest up against (and perhaps inside) your home.
- Clean gutters: Whether you decide to DIY this task, or hire a professional, this one is very important. Now may also be a good time to install gutter covers to eliminate this task in the future. Who likes to get up on a latter anyway?
- Stock up on winter supplies: Before the cold temperatures set in, think about hitting the hardware store and pick up a snow shovel, bag of salt, ice scraper, windshield washer fluid, and anything else that will help during those salty, snowy months ahead. We have all seen the supplies run out when the weatherman predicts snowfall, so getting ahead of the crowd will reduce that stress.
- Shut off water spouts and put away hoses: Avoid frozen spigots and hoses that crack by draining your hose and storing it for the winter. Also turn off the outdoor spouts for the same reason. Make sure to turn the shutoff valve indoor and remove the bleeder cap to drain any remaining water.
- Clean dryer vents: The lint that collects in your vent is highly flammable and can create a fire hazard. It can also burn out the heating element on your dryer rendering it useless. If your clothes are taking longer to dry, you know it needs cleaning.
- Chimney cleaning: Another fire hazard as soot accumulates, you need to have this serviced. Have your chimney cleaned once a year for safety and efficiency. If a chimney is used infrequently, critters and birds can collect and nest there, blocking the chimney. your home
- Service and stow your lawn equipment: Once you are finished with your last yearly lawn maintenance project, have your equipment tuned so it is ready to go next year. Proper care can extend the life of your mower, string trimmer, hedge trimmer, and any other tool regularly used to manicure your landscaping.
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