With fall now in full swing, we know you feel it. The cold breeze of winter is indeed right up around the corner. 

It's now cool enough to wear sweaters and boots, and pumpkin spice lattes are back in stock. But, even if we are emotionally prepared for autumn, our houses need some sprucing up before they are ready for winter.

Here are some pointers to help you prepare your house for the rest of the autumn and the upcoming winter seasons. Hence, you experience proper safety and warmth when you curl up next to the fire throughout this season.

Check your fireplace & HVAC systems.

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First, check your fireplace. In keeping with the theme of coziness and warmth, now would be an excellent time to get your fireplace inspected and cleaned. Be sure that the damper is operating correctly, that no debris is blocking the duct, and that you can see sunlight coming in through the top of the chimney.

If you own a heating and cooling system, it's a great time to make an appointment with a professional and get it checked out. A checkup may cost up to $100, but peace of mind is priceless. 

Keep in mind that you should replace your filters regularly. It is a crucial step in ensuring that your system continues to operate effectively.

Clear out the debris from your gutters.

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Preventing “ice dams” formed in your gutters is a must. 

Clear up your gutters after the leaves have fallen from your trees to lessen the likelihood of ice dams forming in the winter. Make sure that your gutters are not drooping and collecting water by visually inspecting them. 

Any gutter hangers and downspout brackets that need it should have their screws tightened, repaired, or replaced. The downspouts should reach at least five feet from the structure; if necessary, you may add extensions.

Examine the roof.

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Since you’re cleaning the gutters already, you might as well check the roof.

From the bottom, carry out a visual assessment of the roof, take binoculars to look at steep roofs, or climb up for a better perspective. Check to see if shingles are missing or damaged. Clear away leaves and debris from your flat roof regularly. 

Insulate your house for the winter.

When it comes to the fall and winter seasons, it is vital to seal your home! It may help you save money by eliminating energy-wasting air leaks and preventing moisture from entering your walls. Both of these issues contribute to higher utility bills. 

Find some caulk tubes in colors that match the inside and outside of your house, and use them to fill up gaps around the windows, trim, and pipes, among other places. Check the temperature above 50 degrees (this will help the caulk flow smoothly). It is also an ideal chance to examine worn-out or damaged weather stripping and repair it.

Secure your garden hoses and sprinkler systems.

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Never neglect your garden hoses and sprinklers! 

If the temperature dips below freezing, disconnect your garden hoses from the outside faucets, so you don't cause harm. Turn off all shutdown valves on the water supply lines that feed external faucets. Empty the water from the garden hose before putting it away in the garage or shed.

Buried irrigation lines are more likely to freeze, which may result in burst pipes and damaged sprinkler heads. Follow the instructions below to prevent the pipes from freezing: 

• You should turn off the water supply to the system at the main valve.

• Put the automated controller into the off position.

• Opening the drain valves will allow you to drain water from the system.

• Take off any sprinkler heads that are above ground, and give them a good shake to get the water out. When it is dry, replace it.

• You also have the option to have this done for you by a trained professional.

Double-check your safety devices.

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As for your other safety devices, you must change the batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Perform the necessary checks to ensure that they are in good functioning order in case of an emergency. Make sure everyone in the family knows the plan by going through it together and practicing it in an emergency.

Final Thoughts

We hope that you and your family will find these pointers helpful in answering the issue of how to prepare your house for winter this fall. This way, you can rest easy and stay cozy without stressing out about freezing pipes, high electric bills, or malfunctioning fireplaces. 

Are you dreaming of a home here in Delaware? We at Loft Realty are here to help you. Reach out to us today, and together, let’s get that dream home you love.