Buying a home can be scary and exhilarating. Most properties have multiple systems that make a home more comfortable and safe. Do you realize the seasons play a role in home maintenance? Lower temperatures bring multiple issues into focus:
Switch to heat on the HVAC side.
Time to cover the A/C Condenser or Swamp Cooler Measure your device prior to buying a cover A good time to replace HVAC Filter (Buy packages of three) Good time to consider upgrade to Nest Thermostat or Ecobee
Outside water concerns.
Ice is the strongest enemy. It is able to break copper, steel and even concrete Disconnect outside hoses, drain, then stash for winter Lawn Sprinklers need to be blown out with compressed air prior to first frost Down Spouts: Make sure the outflow is directed away from foundation or walkways. Make sure the ends of the down spout extensions are not smashed or obstructed.
Gutter Cleaning: Late fall cleaning after the leaves have fallen
Prevents ice dams and gutter damage
Gap Maintenance: Calking, sealing
Doors and windows: Check for gaps that allow infiltration of cold air Doors should be checked for Seal issues and threshold gaps The whole house exterior should be checked for gaps that would allow mice or their buddies in.
Composting Concerns: Critters
Composting on the ground can lead to rat issues One solution: Better Composter or two……
Home Security: Winter Research
First research Z-Wave (wireless Internet of Things technology) Contract or DIY decision. ADT sells a mixture of Z-Wave and other (Contract) Do you need a Hub to bring it all together? Be aware there is a big list of big players There is a Z-Wave Hub called Homey from Athom that senses a variety of devices This solution will automatically sense Z-Wave and Wi-Fi devices (Kwickset door locks or Nest Thermostats)
Home Inspection:Tilley Home Inspection’s goal is to not only report on home, but also help the owner take care of their investment.
LEAVE LOVE