Replace your furnace filters: Simply put, a dirty filter reduces airflow and heat, which can lead to expensive repairs. Check the air filter in your furnace and be sure to change it regularly (every 3 months or sooner depending on your homes air quality).
Check your roof: Inspect your roof for leaks. Even the smallest of leaks can cause thousands of dollars worth of roof repairs. Instead of using a ladder to inspect your roof, you can use binoculars to check for missing, cracked, or curled shingles safely from the ground. You can also call in a professional to check for any leaks. Catching any potential problems before they become major catastrophes can save you thousands of dollars.
Don’t forget your thermostat: Lowering your indoor temperature by about 10 degrees while you are asleep or at work can trim up to 15% off your heating bill, according to ConsumerReports.org. You can lower the temperature manually or install a programmable thermostat such as the Honeywell PRO 4000 Programmable Thermostat. This thermostat allows you to program the temperature in your home to comfortably fit your needs, while also saving you money by being energy efficient.
Clear gutter clogs: Gutters stuffed with leaves and other debris can let water spill over the side of your house, build over your homes foundation, and seep inside. If the gutters are not cleared regularly during the fall, then any water that freezes in the gutters can force ice and snow onto the roof shingles, causing leaks and damage. Use a gutter guard system to keep water in and leaves out.
Seal off leaks: Seal any leaks in your homes windows, walls, and ductwork. Use caulk, expandable sealant, foam board and weather stripping to plug leaks around doors, windows, electrical outlets and other openings in your home. Plugging leaks around the home can lower your annual cooling and heating bills by more than $200.
Fall is a good time to get your house in order. You can’t ignore these home repairs around the house before winter comes. If you do, you’ll cost yourself time and money.
