Fall Home Maintenance Tips

As temperatures drop and nights grow longer, it’s time to prepare your home for colder weather. A little maintenance now can help keep your family safe and comfortable and your home energy-efficient this fall and winter.

Inside

• Check your heating system: Have a qualified professional inspect and clean your system.
• Change your furnace filter: Replace it regularly to maintain airflow and efficiency.
• Clean your chimney: Have a professional clean and inspect it for buildup or damage.
• Air seal your basement: Seal gaps around pipes, wiring, walls and ceilings to prevent drafts.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Replace batteries and detectors that are 10 years old or older.

Outside

• Seal windows and doors: Use caulk or weatherstripping to stop warm air from escaping.
• Check outdoor lighting: Replace worn bulbs and consider energy-efficient LEDs.
• Clean gutters and downspouts: Remove leaves and debris to prevent drainage problems and ice dams.
• Trim trees: Remove branches that could fall on your home during snow or ice.
• Prepare your generator and snow blower: Follow manufacturer recommendations for seasonal maintenance and testing.

Stock Up
Keep emergency supplies on hand, including blankets, flashlights, nonperishable food, a first aid kit, generator and snow-blower fuel, and rock salt or other deicers.

Is your home ready for colder weather? Find out if your insulation is doing its job. Visit hendrickspower.com/insulation-check to learn about a FREE insulation check from our energy advisor.