As the weather begins to cool down, we are warned that winter is on the way. Several events and tasks come with this change in season, but definitely one of the most vital is preparing your home for winter. Every Beverly Hills rental home needs several appropriate seasonal maintenances to be certain you can continue being comfortable living there, month after month. And the right time to make ready for a new season is before it happens. Even though certain winterization tasks are best left to your landlord or a professional, there are some things you should engage in to help your home be ready for cold temperatures.
Cooling System
As soon as temperatures have decreased enough that your air conditioner is never again needed, it’s the date to winterize it for the season. This can help protect your unit and get it better at how it performs the next time it’s actually needed. Prepping an AC unit for winter is quite easy and trouble-free: 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 to close all vents and, if possible, cover them as well.
Heating System
With winter coming, it’s necessary to fire up your furnace for a test run long before you need it. To do it, simply turn it on and note whether it appears to be working properly. Furthermore, be certain to replace your air filters, clean and open all heating vents, and check for any obstructions. If you have any troubles, call your landlord right away.
Fireplace
If your rental home has a fireplace, you may need to accomplish several preparations before you may use it. As an example, do you know when the last time the chimney was cleaned? If not, check with your landlord and, if need be, request cleaning to be scheduled. This is specifically significant if you suppose that birds, mice, squirrels, or other animals have made a nest inside. With that said, remove any flammable objects from around the fireplace opening and verify that the damper is working properly.
Plumbing
Frozen water pipes are one of the big dangers during freezing weather. To support 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 uncomplicated steps can help you ensure your plumbing continues to function correctly all winter long.
Windows & Doors
Drafts and air leaks can actually become a significant problem whenever temperatures drop low. So take a few minutes before that arises and check your home’s doors and windows for gaps, cracks, and air leaks. Quite a lot of air leaks around doors and windows can be fixed with some caulk or weather stripping. But take note, if you detect air leaks that don’t have an obvious source, it could be time to call your landlord and have it checked out by a professional.
Yard & Patio
On a final note, bear in mind to prepare your yard, patio, or deck for the winter, too. Autumn is a nice time to trim back trees and shrubs, clean up fallen leaves, and mow the lawn one last time. Likewise, take into consideration covering and storing 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!
Conceding that getting your home set up for winter may take a little 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 make a move. Check out the available rental listings that Real Property Management Advantage has to offer.
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