If your family is like ours, we are trying to stretch out the last few weeks of summer. But, honestly, I am looking forward to the crisp fall air, bonfires, and – of course – Chiefs football! As home service professionals, our team at Certified Radon is often asked about the best ways to prepare homes for fall and winter weather. We’ve put together this list of nine things you can do in early fall to make for a more comfortable (and hopefully maintenance-free) winter.
- Schedule Furnace Maintenance
Ensure your heating system is functioning properly. Preventative maintenance is much less costly than big repairs. We know our colleagues in the HVAC business get very busy with the first shot of cold weather. Beat the rush by scheduling your maintenance check before the temperature drops.
- Do a Safety Check
Before you close the house and turn on the heat, it is a good idea to make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Swap out batteries and run a test to be sure.
- Test for Radon
We all spend more time indoors during the colder-weather months. This means a higher risk of exposure if radon levels are high in your home. Since toxic radon gas cannot be detected by smell, sight, or taste, the only way to know if radon is present at dangerous levels is to conduct a test. For accurate results, we recommend having an industry-certified radon professional test your home. Learn more here.
- Seal Cracks
Check for cracks in your foundation and near doors and windows. Seal cracks properly to prevent drafts, water, and pests from entering your home.
- Improve Insulation
Save money and improve the comfort and efficiency of your home by adding insulation in your attic and walls. This prevents cold air from entering and holds the warm air in. An investment in insulation could save you thousands on heating and cooling costs over time.
- Check Doors and Windows
Of course, these entry points can be problem areas. With a little maintenance, you can improve efficiency. Replace screens with storm windows and doors, and apply weather stripping to keep the cold air out.
- Check Your Roof
Autumn can be a stormy season and hard on your roof. Repair loose shingles and check gutters to clear debris to extend the life of your roof.
- Trim Trees
Find a reliable, insured tree service to remove dead and decaying limbs from trees. Branches can fall and cause more property damage with the force of winds and snow.
- Check for Leaky Pipes
Frozen pipes in the dead of winter is no fun for anyone. Disconnect hoses and make sure your outside faucets are working properly and sealed for winter.
Following a few simple steps to prep your home can save you time and money. It can also mean the difference between making emergency repairs or watching your favorite team any given Sunday this fall. I vote for watching the game.
We’re always here to help at Certified Radon. Feel free to contact our team at Certified Radon at 816.587.3500 or visit us online at www.CertifiedRadonKC.com.
