5 ways to protect your home before fall starts

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• Fall weather is fast approaching, and that means homeowners need to start preparing.
• There are several ways homeowners can weather-proof their homes and avoid expensive bills or potential repairs.
• Cleaning (or replacing) your gutters can save you from water damage costs, while checking for drafts can lower your heating bills.

The leaves are beginning to change color, and stores are stocking their shelves full of pumpkin spice products, which can only mean one thing: fall is fast approaching.

Here are five things homeowners should do ahead of the chilly fall temperatures.

1. Clean (or replace) your gutters

The thing about gutters is that when they’re working properly, you don’t even think about them. But giving your gutters a little TLC can save you from expensive water damage repairs.

Give them a look, and if necessary, replace them. MyGutterGuards lets you compare prices and find the best deals near you before the leaves start to fall.

2. Check for drafts

Heat loss through windows is responsible for 25-30% of heating energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. But luckily, weatherstripping is simple and one of the most cost-effective ways to keep heating costs down.

3. Turn off your outdoor faucets

It’s a good idea to ensure that all of your outdoor faucets are turned off before winter. Homeowners should drain and disconnect all garden hoses to prevent any water freezing. Failing to do so could result in your pipes bursting — a problem that no one wants to deal with.

4. Store your outdoor furniture

You’re probably thinking, “But it’s outdoor furniture!” True, but nothing is more unpleasant than sitting on a crunchy pile of musty leaves that are stuck after months of not being used. If you want your patio furniture to be in good shape for the summer, consider storing it in a garage or shed, or invest in a waterproof furniture cover.

5. Change your filters

Another thing that might cost you money is a clogged filter. Clogged filters make your furnace have to work harder to regulate the temperature in your home, which can increase your monthly heating bill. Pro tip: Disposable filters can be vacuumed one time before replacing them.