The weather is already beginning to get cooler; this is a sign that winter is just around the corner. With the different events and tasks that come with a change in season, the preparation of your home for winter occurs as well. What every Park Ridge rental home requires is seasonal maintenance to keep it nice and in good condition. Prepare for a new season before it arrives because that’s the best time to do it. While some winterization tasks are best left to your landlord or a professional, you can take the initiative by making sure your home is ready for the cold temperature.
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 allows for the unit to be protected and improved to maintain its performance. 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. Remember to close and cover the vents if you have a window unit.
Heating System
With winter approaching, it’s important to fire up your furnace for a test run long before you need it. This can be done by simply turning on the furnace to check if it still works. Also, be sure to replace your air filters, clean and open all heating vents, and check for any obstructions. For any issues that you might notice, bring them up with your landlord as soon as possible.
Fireplace
If your rental home has a fireplace, it’s possible that you might need to prepare it before you use it. Make it a point to clean your chimney, for example. If it isn’t clean, tell the landlord so you can request a cleaning to be scheduled. 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
It’s normal to have frozen water pipes in freezing weather. 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 are just a few steps you can take to make sure that your plumbing functions correctly all throughout winter.
Windows & Doors
It’s a common issue to have to deal with drafts and air leaks when temperatures drop low. If you want to handle them before they become major problems, make sure to check your home’s doors and windows for gaps, cracks, and air leaks. Generally, air leaks around doors and windows can be fixed with some caulk or weather stripping. If the air leaks don’t point to an apparent source, it should lead you to reach out to your landlord so that it can be checked by a professional.
Yard & Patio
And, remember to get your yard, patio, or deck ready for the winter, too. Autumn is a fantastic 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 – keep them in good condition by not neglecting them!
Yes, preparing your home for winter can be very intimidating; but, it will be so worth it when the cold temperatures come. However, if you can’t bear the thought of having to go through another winter in your current rental home, then maybe you should consider moving. Check out the available rental listings that Real Property Management Chicago Group has to offer.
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