As fall approaches, it’s time to start on our winter maintenance. Here is a checklist of tasks to complete before the colder weather sets in.
- Caulk any gaps and cracks around doors, windows, plumbing and electrical outlets. These cracks and gaps allow your conditioned indoor air to escape and reduce the efficacy of your building envelope.
- Check weather stripping on all doors including the garage door for damage.
- Have your roof inspected to ensure that there are no loose or damaged shingles and that flashing and chimney caps are properly sealed.
- Clear gutters and eaves of leaves and other debris and check that downspouts are clear. Repair any cracks or seam separations on gutters and downspouts.
- Drain all taps, hoses, ponds and water features before the first frost.
- Check all your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order.
- Check that furnace vents are unobstructed and new filters are in place. Do your annual furnace maintenance before the colder weather sets in.
- Check all HVAC ducts are properly sealed to prevent the loss of conditioned air.
- Check that your sump pump and discharge line are in good working order.
- Cover your air conditioning unit with a protective covering for the winter.
- Check your heat recovery ventilator and humidifiers are in good working order.
- Have your chimneys and fireplaces cleaned and check the dampers are in good working order.
- Store all summer furniture away for the winter.