Fall and Winter are much tamer in Florida than other parts of our country. However, that does not mean we have nothing to prepare. Consider simple maintenance tasks to help you shift from fall to winter.
Tip #1
The first thing any homeowner thinks of when preparing for the upcoming chills is their heating system. The heating system is an integral part of the HVAC system and requires regular inspections. The first step to maintaining your system is to turn it on and place your hand over a vent to make sure it is blowing warm air. If you have not used the heating system since last February, there may be an odd smell. This is completely normal. Simply open your windows to let the smell dissipate. If your system does not turn on, or if it does not blow warm air, you should consider reaching out to local HVAC companies for an inspection. Ensuring that your HVAC system and vents are working is the first step to keeping you and your home happy during the winter.
Tip #2
Assist your heater by utilizing your ceiling fans. Many ceiling fans have a small switch or button that controls whether they spin clockwise or counterclockwise. During the winter, having your fans spin clockwise will help push the warm air down into the room where people gather.
Tip #3
Now that you have a toasty paradise in your home, the next step is to plug any holes or gaps that may be letting the warm air escape. The best places to check are windows, doors, and fireplaces. These areas may have loose frames, cracks, or gaps that allow chilly air, bugs, and animals looking for shelter to enter your home. You can try the DIY flame method to secure these areas. Simply hold a lit candle or match near your window or door. If the flame flickers, you likely have a draft coming in from outdoors. If this is the case, local professionals can offer assessments and energy audits before this minor inconvenience becomes a cold spot during the winter. Preventative maintenance is the best way to stop leaks and air seepage. These issues can lead to a loss in energy efficiency or considerable damage to your home.
Tip #4
Inspecting your gutters and roof is another essential step for any homeowners looking to protect their homes this winter. Cautiously climb a ladder to inspect your gutters, or save yourself the hassle by calling a professional. Especially as the fall season comes to an end, these will need to be cleaned out in order for any rain to flow freely. With the proper safety precautions, you can inspect your roof for loose shingles, broken tiles, or any other damage. However, unless you have experience, it is best to call a local roofing company who can inspect the damage and repair it.
Tip #5
Check for leaking appliances and pipes. For example, you should ensure that your dishwasher and garbage disposal are free of leaking water while running. Examine your spigots and faucets for any small leaks that may have gone unnoticed. This can be a simple fix, but it is best handled before the water will be at risk of freezing and damaging your home.
Checking your home for any previous damage or loss in energy efficiency is always a smart move. It is particularly important to take care of these things before the winter season arrives. Every homeowner deserves a safe, efficient, and comfortable home for the winter, and all it takes is a little bit of work.
Sam Haggerty
Home & Yard Magazine
