Last week, we shared some handy fall home maintenance tips for homeowners throughout Nevada, regardless of climate. Hopefully, you’ve already started checking some of them off your list. Today, we want to share some fall to-dos for Nevadans who live where freezing temperatures are the norm from fall to spring (though our friends in southern Nevada can also benefit from a couple of these fall energy-saving tips as well).
Fall Checklist, Part Two
1. Put your sprinklers system to bed.
Truckee Meadows Water Authority recommends draining and shutting down sprinkler and drip systems by Nevada Day (officially, October 31). That’s typically the time of year when freezing temps arrive, and can start to do serious damage to irrigation pipes if not properly winterized. There are two ways to proceed: hire a professional or do it yourself. There are a few things you should know if you’re taking on this chore, so be sure to do your homework before getting started. (Click the ‘do it yourself’ link for tips.)
2. Feel a draft? Attack!
If your home is a little drafty near windows or doors, now’s the time to get out the caulking gun. Not only will you be more comfortable in your home, you’ll also save money. According to the Department Of Energy, sealing uncontrolled air leaks can save 10-20 percent on annual heating and cooling bills. (This tip is good for all Nevadans, regardless of climate, FYI.)
So how do you get started? Watch this video from todayshomeowner.com for some good pointers.
3. Roll around in the gutter.
Clogged rain gutters, largely caused by falling leaves and debris in the fall and winter months, can present huge problems for your home. Potential water damage can affect your foundation, siding and landscaping, among other things. Thankfully, there’s an easy fix: Clean out your rain gutters this fall. (Again, this tip is good for all Nevadans.)
Haven’t cleaned gutters before? Never fear. We’ve provided a helpful gutter-cleaning resource.
4. It’s time to stow your mower.
Your lawn-taming machine has done its fair share of labor this spring and summer. It’s time for some much deserved time off. Winterizing your mower, which includes replacing the oil, air filter and spark plugs, will go a long way in revving up the engine come spring. (And springs to come.)
This Old House has put forth a step-by-step guide to preparing your lawn mower for hibernation.
5. Hoses: A total disconnect.
We saved the easiest fall chore for last. If you love crossing things off your to-do list like we do, start with this chore: Disconnect your hoses from the hose bibs outside. According to Rescue Rooter, hoses left connected during freezing temperatures can build up with ice and subsequently, could add pressure to the line inside your home and cause serious damage.
You Got This!
Sure, with homeownership comes a few extra chores you probably didn’t even think about as a renter, but owning your own home is well worth the extra time and elbow grease to keep your house in tip-top shape.
