As the weather actually begins to cool down, we are made aware that winter is on the way. Various events and tasks come with this change in season, though one of the most relevant is preparing your home for winter. Every Forsyth rental home needs particular appropriate seasonal maintenance to see to it you remain comfortable living there, month after month. And the perfect time to make preparations for a new season is before it takes place. But even though several winterization tasks are best left to your landlord or a professional, there are particular things you should take care of to help your home be ready for cold temperatures.
Cooling System
In the event that temperatures have plunged down enough that your air conditioner is not needed anymore, it’s the perfect time to winterize it for the season. This can help protect your unit and enhance how it performs the next time it will be used. Prepping an AC unit for winter is really manageable and easy: clean off the condensing unit with a spray of water, let dry, and then cover the unit with a breathable, waterproof cover. If you have window units, be certain to close all vents and, if possible, cover them as well.
Heating System
With winter coming up, it’s vital to fire up your furnace for a test run long before you need it. For this purpose, turn it on and note whether it looks to be working properly. Still, make certain to replace your air filters, clean and open all heating vents, and check for any obstructions. If you meet any complications and issues, call your landlord right away.
Fireplace
If your rental home has a fireplace, you may need to fulfill particular preparations before using it. For example, do you know when the last time the chimney was cleaned? If not, discuss it over with your landlord and, if necessary, request cleaning to be scheduled. This is absolutely necessary if you assume that birds, mice, squirrels, or other animals have made a nest inside. In that case, remove any flammable objects from around the fireplace opening and ensure to check thoroughly that the damper is working properly.
Plumbing
Frozen water pipes are one of the big dangers during freezing weather. To be able to keep your home’s pipes from freezing, take steps before cold temperatures arrive. Check the basement, crawlspace, attic, or exterior for exposed pipes. Then, wrap any pipes with foam insulating sleeves. As needed, exterior faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems should be drained, disconnected, and covered. These easy steps can help make certain your plumbing continues to function correctly all winter long.
Windows & Doors
Drafts and air leaks can turn to be a massive concern as soon as temperatures drop low. So take a few minutes before that ensues and check your home’s doors and windows for gaps, cracks, and air leaks. Various air leaks around doors and windows can be fixed with some caulk or weather stripping. However, if you encounter air leaks that don’t have an obvious source, it definitely should be time to call your landlord and have it checked out by a professional.
Yard & Patio
One last thing, call to mind to prepare your yard, patio, or deck for the winter, too. Autumn is the best time to trim back trees and shrubs, clean up fallen leaves, and mow the lawn one last time. Furthermore, bear in mind to cover and store grills, patio furniture, cushions, hammocks, and other warm-weather furnishings. Don’t let snow or cold weather damage your outdoor furnishings – make certain to keep them nicer longer by taking care of them now!
Even though getting your home all set up for winter may take considerable time and effort, it is all worth it once cold temperatures arrive. But if you can’t imagine spending another winter in your current rental home, now is the time to make a move. Check out the available rental listings that Real Property Management Vesta has to offer.
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