As the weather begins to cool down, we are cautioned that winter is on the way. A lot of events and tasks come with this change in season, nevertheless one of the most significant is preparing your home for winter. Every Thousand Oaks rental home needs various appropriate seasonal maintenance to make sure you continue to be comfortable living there, month after month. And a good time to prepare for a new season is before it comes. Although few winterization tasks are best left to your landlord or a professional, there are a few things you should fix to help your home be ready for cold temperatures.
Cooling System
Whenever temperatures have fallen enough that your air conditioner is not anymore needed, it’s the moment to winterize it for the season. This can help protect your unit and greatly improve how it performs the next time it’s needed. Prepping an AC unit for winter is simple: clean off the condensing unit with a spray of water, let dry, and then cover the unit with a breathable, waterproof cover. If you have window units, ensure to close all vents and, if possible, cover them as well.
Heating System
With winter forthcoming, it’s essential to fire up your furnace for a test run long before you need it. To do it, turn it on and note whether it is working properly. Moreover, ensure to replace your air filters, clean and open all heating vents, and check for any obstructions. If you experience any issues, call your landlord right away.
Fireplace
If your rental home has a fireplace, you may need to execute various preparations prior to using it, as well. For instance, do you know when the last time the chimney was cleaned? If not, verify with your landlord and, if required, request cleaning to be scheduled. This is particularly relevant if you believe that birds, mice, squirrels, or other animals have made a nest inside. Having said that, remove any flammable objects from around the fireplace opening and inspect that the damper is working properly.
Plumbing
Frozen water pipes are one of the big dangers during freezing weather. To aid in keeping your home’s pipes from freezing, take steps before cold temperatures arrive. Check the basement, crawlspace, attic, or exterior for exposed pipes. Then, wrap any pipes with foam insulating sleeves. As needed, exterior faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems should be drained, disconnected, and covered. These easy, trouble-free steps can help make certain your plumbing continues to function correctly all winter long.
Windows & Doors
Drafts and air leaks can become a complex issue every time temperatures drop low. So take a few minutes before that occurs and check your home’s doors and windows for gaps, cracks, and air leaks. Some air leaks around doors and windows can be fixed with some caulk or weather stripping. But certainly, if you ascertain air leaks that don’t have an obvious source, it may be time to call your landlord and have it checked out by a professional.
Yard & Patio
One last note, keep in mind to prepare your yard, patio, or deck for the winter, too. Autumn is a perfect time to trim back trees and shrubs, clean up fallen leaves, and mow the lawn one last time. Additionally, remember to cover and store grills, patio furniture, cushions, hammocks, and other warm-weather furnishings. Don’t let snow or cold weather damage your outdoor furnishings – keep them nicer longer by taking care of them now!
Though getting your home prepared for winter may take some time and effort, it is all worth it once cold temperatures arrive. But if you can’t imagine spending another winter in your current rental home, now is the time to move. Check out the available rental listings that Real Property Management Limitless has to offer.
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