5 Ways to Prepare for Fall
Summer is coming to a close faster than we'd like to admit. Labour Day just passed and soon we will be heading into the holidays. However, the end of summer doesn't mean the end of home improvement for the year. Now is the time to make sure you and your home will be ready for the cooler months.
Don't sweat that summer is coming to a close but relax knowing that Budget Blinds Edmonton & St. Albert is here to make sure you're comfortable and cozy all year long!
Below are 5 ways to prepare for Fall:
1) Clean your Furnace Filter
As the temperatures in Edmonton & St. Albert change, it's time to do some HVAC maintenance.
There are two basic types of air filters - permanent filters and disposable filters. Permanent filters have metal or fibreglass frames while disposable furnace filters have cardboard frames.
Disposable is a one-time-use filter that's typically effective for 1-3 months. Every one to three months, you can remove this filter and carefully wash it to remove the accumulated dust, irritants, and pollutants.
Follow these steps to clean your reusable furnace filter:
- Turn off the furnace.
- Locate the service panel and remove the cover (you may need tools such as a screwdriver to help you with this step).
- Find the Furnace Filter. If you see dust you need to clean it.
- After removing the filter, rinse it with water to clean it.
- Let the filter dry completely.
- Replace the filter, replace the service panel and turn your furnace back on.
2) Caulk Around Windows and Doors
Caulk is a flexible material used to seal joints and seams against leakage. Applying caulk to windows and door frames help prevent not only air leakage but water leakage as well!
Tip: For good adhesion, clean all caulking areas first! Remove any old caulk and paint by using a putty knife, screwdriver, stiff brush, or a special solvent. Make sure the area is dry so you don't seal in moisture.
3) Clean Gutters
Gutters drain thousands of gallons of water from your roof yearly so it's important to keep it unclogged. It's recommended that you clean your gutters twice a year, typically in the fall and late spring.
You can hire a service to clear your gutters or do it yourself. If you're doing it yourself, you will need to prepare with the following items: a sturdy ladder, gloves, shovel, brush, bucket, and a hose.
- With a securely placed ladder, remove all of the debris out of the gutter and place into your bucket.
- Scrape off any debris that is stuck with a brush then blast the gutters with your hose, working towards the drain outlet.
- Once you've removed most of the mess, give the bottom of the gutter a good sweep with a brush. To reduce the need for gutter cleaning, install a gutter guard.
4) Drain Outdoor Faucets
One of the leading causes of home insurance claims across Canada is water damage! Draining the pipes of your home for the cold months is very important as it can help prevent them from freezing and possibly bursting.
- Close the water supply valve. It is usually located near the water meter in the basement, or garage.
- Get out there and remove all hoses or faucet fittings.
- Turn the tap at full speed and let it run until it stops dripping. This will flush any excess water flow in the pipe and other accumulations along the pipe.
- Once the water stops, turn off the tap again and tighten.
You can also purchase an insulation cover to place over your faucet to protect it from cold weather conditions.
5) Install Insulating Window Treatments
Windows are an architectural feature of your home that allows for fresh air and sunshine. Unfortunately, it is known that you can lose over 50% of your home’s heat and cooling through your windows.
But there is a simple solution to your problem– insulating window coverings! Having the proper energy-efficient window treatments can make your windows look great and also provide you with multiple benefits while lowering your bill.
Budget Blinds Edmonton & St. Albert makes the “shopping at home” experience possible by bringing the showroom to you!
With our assortment of beautiful samples, you can shop your fabric, colour, wood and texture options personally by hand.
Call today to schedule your
free consultation!
780-463-8439
