Autumn brings a mix of pleasures, from sipping apple cider to donning cozy sweaters and indulging in pumpkin spice delights. Amidst these enjoyable moments, it’s important to remember that fall also brings a list of essential home maintenance tasks that shouldn’t be ignored.
Taking some time now to tackle these Myrtle Beach home maintenance tasks can save you both money and hassle as the colder months approach. So, let’s dive into the details of these crucial fall chores to ensure your home is prepared for a comfortable and worry-free winter.
Home Maintenance Tips Before Winter
1. Check and Service Your Heating System:
Before the frigid temperatures arrive, it’s wise to have a professional inspect and service your heating system. This step isn’t just about staying warm; it’s also because many maintenance tasks require the system to be turned off. Whether you have a boiler or a furnace, it’s essential to ensure that all components are in proper working order.
Check the pressure and bleed the radiators for boilers, and inspect filters, igniters, blower motors, and heat exchangers for furnaces. Also, don’t overlook the potential for carbon monoxide risks, which can arise from chimney buildup or leaky pipes.
2. Maintain Your Gutters:
Twice a year, during both spring and fall, it’s crucial to clean and maintain your gutters. Even if you missed the spring cleaning, it’s essential to ensure your gutters are rust-free, securely attached, and free of debris before winter rains arrive.
Unattended gutters can become overwhelmed by snow or blocked by frozen clogs, leading to splits or collapses. Including gutter maintenance in your fall checklist will protect your home’s foundation and prevent water damage.
3. Seal Up Windows and Doors:
Preventing cold drafts and high energy bills is easy by sealing air leaks around doors and windows. Proper weather-stripping can make a significant difference in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. For those living in regions with colder climates, installing storm windows provides an extra layer of insulation, ensuring that the warmth stays in and the cold stays out.
4. Fireplace and Chimney Care:
If you plan to enjoy a warm and cozy fireplace during the winter, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection and cleaning of your chimney. Creosote, a flammable substance that accumulates from burning wood, can create a serious fire hazard.
A Myrtle Beach handyman can help with regular maintenance. It prevents chimney fires but also helps identify any blockages caused by critters seeking refuge during the warmer months.
5. Prepare Your Plumbing for Winter:
Avoid the nightmare of frozen pipes by checking for leaks and ensuring proper insulation before the temperatures drop. Taking these steps will protect your plumbing system from potential damage and save you from expensive repairs. Also, if your home has a sump pump, make sure it’s in good working condition before winter arrives to prevent basement flooding.
6. Give Your Hot Water Heater Some Attention:
A well-maintained hot water heater not only ensures your comfort but also extends the appliance’s lifespan. Test the pressure relief valve and flush the tank to remove sediment buildup, which can affect efficiency and performance.
7. Verify the Functionality of Your Thermostats:
As the weather changes, it’s time to test your thermostat to make sure it’s operating properly. Check its responsiveness, battery charge, and whether the heat and air conditioning turn on and off as expected. If you’re unsure about any issues related to the thermostat or the heating/cooling system, seek advice from an expert to avoid future headaches.
8. Clear Out Dryer Vents:
Though it may not seem like a seasonal task, cleaning the dryer vent twice a year is vital. A clogged or damaged dryer vent may result in higher energy bills, longer drying times, and fire risks. Your local handyman can help you in ensuring proper airflow keeps your dryer operating efficiently and your home safe.
9. Maintain Your Garage:
Your garage serves as a protective shield for essential items such as lawnmowers and bicycles while also offering insulation for your home. A well-maintained garage door not only keeps the snow away from your car but also contributes to overall energy efficiency. Make sure your garage door is functioning correctly, and remote controls work, and take advantage of a properly insulated home when those winter energy bills arrive.
And in case your required handyman services in Myrtle Beach extend beyond these tasks, don’t fret. Our range of services includes power washing, TV mounting, interior painting, and more.
Let us be your partner in taking care of your home repair and maintenance needs. Reach out to The Handyman today!
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The Handyman
Myrtle Beach, SC
843-286-5873
handymanmyrtlebeach.com