Preparing For Autumn
Love it or hate it, Autumn is here. And much like spring cleaning, the start of fall marks a convenient time of the year to get your home ready for cooler temperatures.
Did you know that having your home weatherized can help save hundreds of dollars a year on your energy bills? The U.S. Department of Energy estimated that weatherization could save the average homeowner more than $400 per year. And the good news is that there are several programs in place to help families cover the cost of weatherizing their homes.
America’s natural gas utilities spend $4.3 million every day on programs to help customers install tighter-fitting windows and doors, upgrade insulation, and purchase increasingly more efficient natural gas appliances. If you’re considering having your home weatherized, check your local utility’s website to learn more about what programs might be available. The federal government also offers a variety of tax rebates for everything from weatherization to Energy Star appliances.
Did you know that most gas appliance manufacturers recommend regular maintenance? Ensuring that your appliances are regularly serviced can help keep them operating at peak efficiency, safety, and reliability. Have them inspected regularly by a licensed professional.
If you live somewhere cold, be aware that cold snaps can happen fast. If you’re done using external water for the season, you might want to turn it off to ensure that it doesn’t freeze and burst the pipes in your house.
As a rule of thumb, it can be wise to have your roof inspected annually, and the beginning of Autumn is a good time to do so. Having the gutters cleaned twice a year is also recommended, especially later in the Autumn. Always be sure to follow ladder safety rules.
We hope you enjoy the Autumn weather and make the most of the season!