Fall is a time of change. The leaves change color, the weather gets colder, and your car and home need a little extra TLC. With colder temperatures comes an increased risk of accidents and breakdowns, so it’s important to take the time to prepare for the winter months ahead and finish some home maintenance tasks you may have been putting off all summer. Taking some preventative measures now will save you time and money later on down the road!
Here are 15 essential fall car care and home maintenance tips to help you get started:
Check your car's oil level and change it if necessary.
Keep your car running smoothly and extend the life of your engine with regular oil changes! Check your oil level with a dipstick periodically and top it off when needed. If the oil on the dipstick looks dirty, it's definitely time for an oil change.
Clean your gutters and downspouts.
This should be done at least once a year to ensure that your gutters are clear of debris and able to drain water away from your home properly. If you live in an area with a lot of trees, you may need to clean your gutters more often.
Get your furnace serviced.
A well-maintained furnace can mean the difference between a comfortable winter and a cold, miserable one. Yearly service from a professional HVAC technician will identify any needed repairs and ensure your home stays warm and cozy all winter long.
Seal any cracks or gaps around your home’s doors & windows.
In winter, we want to keep the cold air out and the warm air in! Fill cracks or gaps around your doors and windows with new weather-stripping or caulk. Once you’ve sealed up the gaps, you’ll notice a big difference in your energy bills and your home’s comfort level.
Inspect your tires.
Check out the condition of your tires before winter so you can be safe in all weather! Look for signs of wear and tear (like cracks, bald spots, or cuts) and replace them if necessary. As temperatures drop, so will tire pressure. Check the air in your tires often and re-fill as needed. You'll get better gas mileage, extend the life of your tires, and navigate the roads better, too.
Change the batteries in your smoke detectors.
In the event of a fire, a dead battery can mean the difference between life and death. Check your smoke detectors and change the batteries as needed to make sure they're working well.
Check your windshield wiper blades.
One of the best ways to stay safe in bad weather is to have fresh wiper blades. Check them by lifting the wiper arm away from the windshield and inspecting the rubber blade for cracks, tears, or signs of wear. If it looks damaged (or it doesn't clean well), replace it with a new one!
Inspect your headlights.
Headlights can dim over time, reducing your visibility when driving at night. Turn on your headlights and look at them from a few feet away. If you notice any holes, cracks, or other damage, you'll need to replace your headlight. You can usually find replacement headlights at your local auto parts store.
Wash and wax your car.
Washing and waxing your vehicle at least every few months will make your car look better and last longer! Give your car's exterior a good once-over to clean and seal the paint before winter and keep it looking its best for years to come!
Check your car battery.
A car battery typically lasts around five years, but it can start to show signs of wear and tear sooner than that. If you notice that your battery is dirty or has corroded terminals, you can clean them to restore a good connection. If your car is struggling to start or is having problems keeping a charge, it's a good time to go ahead and get it replaced.
Clean your dryer vents.
Dryer vents become clogged with lint over time, which can cause your dryer to work less efficiently and even pose a fire hazard. Cleaning the vents reduces this risk and saves energy, too!
Put patio furniture in storage.
When the winter months come, store outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements. First, clean and dry the furniture, then cover it with a tarp or store it in a cool, dry place like a shed or garage. In the spring, your patio furniture will be in great condition to enjoy the outdoors again!
Feed & seed your lawn.
If you like a lush, green lawn, you'll need to feed and seed your grass regularly. Seed in the spring or fall to replenish the grass in your lawn, and fertilize it so it has the nutrients to grow healthy and strong!
Store your garden hose.
Water trapped in your garden hose during freezing conditions can cause it to split and crack. To prevent having to repair or replace your hose in the spring, bring it indoors or completely drain the hose before you coil it. Laying the hose out on a hill will help make sure there's no water trapped inside and it can completely drain.
Reverse your ceiling fans for fall.
Reversing your ceiling fans is a quick and easy way to circulate warm air and make your home more comfortable as the temperatures start to drop. First, make sure that your fan is turned off. Next, find the switch on the side of the motor and flip it to the "reverse" position. Once you've done that, turn on your fan and enjoy the warmth!
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We want to wish you a Happy Fall!
Let us take care of you as you're taking care of your home and auto. If you need any help with your insurance plan or want to check or change your coverage, call LW Short Insurance at (843) 357-7493 or visit us online at homeautoinsurancesc.com.
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