It’s Finally Fall
September 26, 2014You’ll soon need to prepare for cooler weather in NorCal! Here are some fall maintenance tips to keep your home and garden in tip-top shape.
Get to work! Having clean gutters makes all the difference to ensure that water is diverted off of your home’s exterior and foundation walls. Clogged drainage systems can lead to major damage, so once the leaves start to fall, it’s time to call a landscaper – or grab the ladder and get to work.
Fall fire safety. It’s that time of year to replace batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Vacuum the systems with a soft brush to remove dust and press the test button to test the detectors. It’s also a great time to check for damage and replace fire extinguishers. Replace these units every six years, and keep one in the kitchen and on each floor of the home. Here’s how to check a fire extinguisher:
- Check that the indicator on the pressure gauge is charged
- Make sure the lock pin is intact
- Inspect the discharge nozzle for clogs
Staying dry. Remember to clean the space under and behind the dryer, where lint can build up. Also clean the vent and exhaust duct periodically to prevent fires and to keep your dryer running smoothly. It’s especially important to clean the lint trap after every load. Hopefully you’ll even find a lost sock or two!
Love your yard in fall. Don’t neglect your landscaping during fall. Fix dead patches in your lawn by laying sod and planting perennial flowers that will blossom in cold weather. You’ll need to adjust the height of your lawn mower to its normal height. Care for your patio by packing up and storing patio furniture as the weather cools down.
Stay warm and enjoy a fun-filled fall in the Bay Area!
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