September is typically a month of transitions. From its fickle weather to its back-to-school vibe, September both welcomes us and beckons us to prepare for the upcoming new season. Taking on September is easy with our September Home To-Do List. Grab a family member and block out a weekend to tackle a couple of chores that will keep your home running like clockwork this fall.
INDOORS
Remove Window Units
September is a great month to either remove your window AC units, or protect them outdoors with an insulated cover. Removing the unit is optimal, as it allows the window to close entirely. Speaking of windows…
Replace Weather-stripping
Check older windows especially for cracked or peeling weather-stripping and replace as needed. The idea is to keep the winter weather out and your precious heating dollars indoors where they belong.
Check Your Attic Insulation
Keep your energy bills from going through the roof, literally. If your attic faces extreme temps during the year, consider updating its insulation
Make Sure Your Heater Works
Test your heater to make sure it is in good working condition, before you need it this winter. Dirty or clogged filters should be replaced as they will prevent proper airflow, which makes your heater work twice as hard, and raises your energy bills.
Protect Winter Pipes
There are several foam or rubber pipe insulation options available. Foam pipe covers are safer to use than heating tape, and they are simple to install. Just slip them right over your pipes to prevent possible freezing this winter.
Check Safety Devices
Make sure smoke alarms are installed outside each sleeping area or bedroom in your home, and on every level of your home. Test your safety devices once a month to make sure they are in working order.
OUTDOORS
Clean Gutters
Once most of the leaves have fallen from surrounding trees, use a ladder to access our gutters. Using gloves, scoop out dead leaves and debris into a bucket. Use a garden hose to wash away smaller pieces toward the downspouts, making sure your downspouts deposit the water away from your home’s foundation.
Store Summer Gear
Once your family says farewell for the summer to the lake, beach, or pool – it’s time to clean and store boogie boards, water toys, shovels, and outdoor furniture.
Aerate Your Lawn
Aerating helps your lawn “breathe” by loosening the soil and allowing it to properly absorb water and nutrients. During the cooler months, grass grows slower and your lawn needs all the help it can get.
Trim Trees
Take a walk around your lawn and examine the trees and shrubbery on your property. Keep branches trimmed to about three feet from your house to keep moisture from constantly dripping onto your roof or siding during the rainy season. The same goes for shrubs. Prune shrubs away from the exterior of your house to prevent excess moisture and pest infestation in the warmer months. Late fall is a great time to trim back trees and shrubs.