6 Home Maintenance Tasks for September
Guess what? The autumn weather is on its way! Whether you’re a fan of the crisp fall weather or not, the season is almost upon us. The changing of the seasons means it’s once again time to take care of your Middle Tennessee home. Remember to schedule time between football games and the last of the backyard barbecues for these September home maintenance tasks.
Start Saving on Your Monthly Energy Bills
For some, the introduction of colder weather signals the switch to indoor heating. While it may be all too tempting to turn on your heating system during September, it’s in your best interest to put on a sweatshirt instead. The switch from cool air to warm air requires your HVAC system to work harder. If you’re looking to save money throughout the year, wait a bit before turning the heat on.
Also, start identifying other ways you can save money on your monthly energy bills. Ideas can include:
- Limiting the amount of electricity used throughout the house.
- Replacing old windows that allow air to leak outside.
- Space out your use of the laundry machines and dish washer.
- Use a programmable thermostat to regulate your home temperature.
What do you do each fall to reduce your monthly energy bills?
Check On Your HVAC System
With energy bills and heating in mind, are you 100% sure that your HVAC system is working properly? If it’s old, broken, or simply worn out, you could actually be losing money by having your heating system work far too hard. Be sure to spend time this September to thoroughly inspect your HVAC system.
It is in your best interest to schedule a routine inspection with your local HVAC technician. The greater Middle Tennessee area has numerous trustworthy heating and cooling technicians to choose from, so schedule your HVAC appointment today!
Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney
When the cool fall weather finally arrives in a few weeks, you’ll want to immediately cozy up to your fireplace. But before you do, thoroughly clean and inspect your fireplace and chimney. The last thing you want to happen is an accidental emergency due to an unclean fireplace and chimney space.
Remember to clear any flammable material far away from your fireplace. The last thing you want is for your treasured family pictures or items to catch fire accidentally! If you are not comfortable inspecting your fireplace and chimney on your own, contact your local specialist and book an inspection and cleaning appointment this September.
Say “See You Later!” to Your Pool
As much as it may pain you to close the pool for the year, it must be done. Luckily, Middle Tennessee has a few weeks of pool weather left! During the month of September, try to gather all of the chemicals and materials you will need to effectively and efficiently close up your pool when the cold weather swoops in.
By having all of your materials close by, you’ll be able to quickly close up your pool and get on with all of your autumn activities!
Fall Landscaping Tasks
Just like you have to water your lawn during the scorching hot summer months, you need to take good care of your landscaping and yard throughout the month of September and into the fall. Common fall landscaping tasks include:
- Trimming back all tree limbs and bushes for safety and aesthetics.
- Mowing your lawn and raking any leaves, twigs, or other natural debris.
- Fertilizing your lawn and garden.
- Removing any sign of weeds, dead plants or foliage, and other unwanted items.
- Planting any fall plants you want for your garden.
However, with school starting back up and sports seasons in gear, you might not have time to take care of your lawn. Fortunately, Middle Tennessee is full of high quality landscaping teams. Make your fall lawn care appointment before the local companies get booked up!
Routine Roof Inspection
No matter how old or how sturdy your roof may be, it is always in your best interest to check for damage in the month of September (and any month throughout the year). You should look for the following signs of damage and areas in need of repair:
- Missing shingles
- Leaky gutters (remember to clean them out!)
- Obvious patches of tears, holes, or splitting
- Stains
- Signs of decay
Fixing damaged roof shingles. A section was blown off after a storm with high winds causing a potential leak.
Once you’ve completed these home maintenance tasks, you’re off to enjoy the rest of September!