Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Alexandria and Arlington, VA

As we prepare to bid farewell to summer and welcome autumn, it’s important to make sure that your home is ready for the cooler months ahead.

For better or worse, that means more than simply carving some pumpkins and hanging a fall-inspired wreath on your front door. It means taking care of that home maintenance to-do list while the sun is still shining and the weather remains mild. So don’t wait until the first frost to check these items off your list:

• Inspect and clean your gutters and downspouts.

• Check your foundation for cracks.

• Fill any driveway or sidewalk cracks and gaps.

• Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors to prevent heat from escaping.

• Check basement windows for loose frames or cracked glass.

• Inspect exterior paint and touch up any cracked or peeling areas if needed.

• Check the seal on your garage door to make sure it keeps out drafts and unwanted critters.

• Inspect your deck for damage or wood rot. Make sure hand rails and steps are solid.

• Drain and bring garden hoses inside and turn off the water supply to outdoor spigots.

• Have your heating system inspected by a licensed contractor.

• Dust or vacuum the air vents in your home.

• Clean or replace your air conditioning filter.

• Change the direction of your ceiling fan so that it redistributes warm air throughout the space.

And how about your water heater?  When was the last time you had it professionally inspected for efficiency and safety?  Over time, sediment builds up inside your storage tank that can eventually cause internal corrosion and a shorter system lifespan.  If you have a gas water heater, it’s also a good idea to have it checked periodically for possible CO leaks.

For greater comfort, convenience, and safety, contact Your 1 Plumber to request a home water heater inspection and cleaning.  It’s a very thorough process that will also give you greater peace while helping to prevent repair problems and extending your water heater’s lifespan.