Temperatures are dropping and its finally time for the Los Angeles version of sweater weather. This means it’s also time to prepare your home for fall. Even with the mild winters we see down here, there are a few things you should do to prepare your home for fall.
1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
The one winter weather “extreme” we have in Los Angeles is rain. When it finally comes, the rain is heavy and can last for a few days. Because of this, it’s important to clean your home’s gutters and downspouts before the winter season hits. When too much debris is stuck in your gutters it can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and even leaks in your roof. Cleaning out your gutter is a relatively easy task if your home is only one story, and you feel comfortable getting up on the roof. For any other conditions, we highly recommend calling a professional or handyman. If you’re ready to take on the job yourself, all you need is a ladder, a sturdy pair of gloves, and yard waste bags. Simply climb up, scoop out the leaves and anything else in there, then responsibility dispose of everything.
2. Repair and Replace any Missing Shingles or Tiles
While you’re up there checking the gutters, don’t forget to take a peek at your roof tiles or shingles. Our hot summers can cause roof tiles to expand and contract. This movement makes them susceptible to cracking or breaking. A broken tile can be a great home for a roof leak.
3. Take Care of That Yard Work!
Yardwork can easily become somewhat overwhelming when everything is overgrown and it’s cold out. A great way to prepare your home for fall is to be proactive and take care of the yardwork. Start by raking up any leaves or other debris on the ground. Then move on to pruning trees and bushes. Make sure to pay special attention to low hanging branches or anything that could cause damage to your home or anything else in your yard.
4. Test Your Weatherstripping & Windows
To save on your energy bills, check your windows and doors for any cracks or holes that may be letting in drafts. In fact, up to 35% of heat-treated air can be lost through drafty windows. This is one reason why it’s important to check the seal around your doors and windows for drafts. Should you find any cracks or holes, it’s time to add some new weatherstripping. Choose the best type of weatherstrip material by taking into consideration friction, temperature, and other factors unique to each location.
5. Program Your Home’s Thermostat
The ideal thermostat setting for fall is roughly 60 degrees. Though that may seem a bit cooler, it’s actually the ideal setting because it strikes a balance between the temperature outside and the temperature inside. 60 degrees is also the most cost-efficient setting. It’s also a good idea to reset the thermostat before changing the temperature for fall. This lets you start with a clean slate and no summer presets. Now is also the time to dress for the season. It’s time for all those sweaters and joggers that have been languishing over the summer to be put to use.
6. Clean or Replace Your HVAC Filter
One of the best ways to maintain your system is by routinely checking and changing or cleaning your air filter. The air filter is responsible for two things. One, keeping your HVAC system clean, and two, trapping indoor air contaminants. When an air filter is too dirty it is unable to do its jobs. Meaning your system is forced to work harder than it should, and you could be breathing in dirty air.
7. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up
It’s never too early to schedule a furnace tune-up. The HVAC experts at Adeedo recommend tuning-up your system twice per year. Once in the spring and once in the fall. A furnace tune-up is crucial because contrary to its name, the furnace is responsible for central heating and cooling, schedule one today.
