Cooling System
Once temperatures have dropped enough that your air conditioner is no longer needed, it’s time to winterize it for the season. This protects your unit and improves the way it performs the next time you’ll need it. Prepping an AC unit for winter is easy: 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, make sure you shut all your vents and cover them.
Heating System
With winter approaching, it’s important to fire up your furnace for a test run long before you need it. Simply turn it on so that you can check if it’s still in good working condition. Also, be sure to replace your air filters, clean and open all heating vents, and check for any obstructions. If you run into any issues with it, call your landlord immediately.
Fireplace
If your rental home has a fireplace, prepare it for use before you actually use it. Make sure that the chimney has been thoroughly cleaned. If it’s not clean, however, then request a cleaning to be scheduled from your landlord. This is key especially if you think that birds, mice, squirrels, or other animals have made a nest inside. Then, remove any flammable objects from around the fireplace opening and check that the damper is working properly.
Plumbing
When the weather is freezing, it’s very common to encounter frozen water pipes. To help keep 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 can really help you make certain that your plumbing continues to function well all winter long.
Windows & Doors
Drafts and air leaks are common problems to face when the temperatures drop low. So that you can avoid these problems during winter, check your home’s doors and windows for gaps, cracks, and air leaks. Usually, air leaks around doors and windows can be fixed with some caulk or weather stripping. But if the air leaks don’t have a clear source, it might be time to contact your landlord to have it looked at by a professional.
Yard & Patio
Finally, your yard, patio, or deck needs to be prepared for winter, too. Autumn is a wonderful time to trim back trees and shrubs, clean up fallen leaves, and mow the lawn one last time. Also, don’t forget 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 – maintain them well so that they last long!
If getting your home ready for winter is a bit too much for you, just think about how much it will be worth it once the cold temperatures arrive. But if the winters in your current rental home are too much, maybe it’s time to consider moving. Check out the available rental listings that Real Property Management Experts have to offer.