As another summer flies by, it’s time to think about ways to prepare your home for the fall season. The cooler weather is starting to settle in, and it’s important to check on parts of your home to get ready for the colder months. Whether it’s a small change or something major, VA Home Loans are here to help. We are happy to help you secure the loans and finances to make that possible. Check out some of our suggestions to clean your home and lower your stress as we approach the fall season.
Gutters
Over the summer, those gutters of yours have probably collected debris, leaves, dirt, and other items. Rainy days are on the way in the Treasure Valley and you want to be a step ahead of it. The rain can cause blockage that may lead to flooding the interior of your home or water damage to the exterior. Grab that ladder, and check those gutters to see if they need to be cleaned or replaced. Better safe than sorry!
HVAC
You’ve been using mostly the AC the past couple of months, so your heating system may not be in the same condition as it was last year. Checking on it before it breaks will save you time and money in the future if you need to get it professionally fixed. Another tip is to set your thermostat back while you’re away during the day, it could save you up to 10% on your heating bill.
Seals
When it’s cool out and you’re cozied up under your blankets, you will want to keep all the warm air in. Checking the seals around your house is the easiest way to make sure they are airtight and actually sealed. If there are faulty seals, this can really affect the temperature in the home. Additionally, it will help you save big on your electricity and heating bills. Checking those periodically during the year is important.
Reverse your Ceiling Fan
During the winter months, warm air rises up to the ceiling fan while cool air will stay closer to the ground. Set your fan to spin clockwise to allow the warm air to be pushed down and force the cooler air up. This is one way to improve the air flow and temperature in your home.
Check Smoke Detectors
It’s important to check your smoke detectors regularly. Replace the batteries and make sure they are working properly. Once you have replaced the batteries, press the test button to ensure they are working properly. The National Fire Protection Association reports that 96% of homes have a smoke detector, but from 2007 – 2011, only 52% of those homes that had a fire had a working smoke detector. Checking your smoke alarm is key to saving your loved ones in the event of a fire. Also, make sure everyone in your home knows where the detectors are placed, when to switch batteries (they will make a chirping sound) and how to evacuate the home.
Decorate!
One of the most fun parts of the changing seasons is decorating for fall time. Whether you like pumpkins or scary decorations, getting involved is a fun way to enjoy the cooler seasons. If you are a spring lover, you can plan ahead by planting spring-blooming flowers. Some popular ones are tulips, lilies, iris, daffodils, and hyacinths. Applying lawn fertilizer will help prevent winter damage and spring weeds. Whether you are a cool or warm weather person, there are ways to enjoy each season.
We want to make sure you are able to prepare your home for every season, including the upcoming fall. If you are a veteran looking for a home loan or refinancing option, contact us today. If you need to fix some of the things mentioned above, reach out to us for a loan to help make those things happen. Save yourself the stress and money by making your home ready for the colder seasons. Happy fall!
