Fall isn't all pumpkin spice and Halloween candy when you're a homeowner. There are many things you will want to do to prepare for the changing seasons, other than making sure your snow pants still fit and you cleaned the oven after last year's turkey.

Lion Home Service can help you with furnace maintenance, insulation, duct cleaning, roof and gutter repairs and more. I've learned these are all things better dealt with before winter hits. ​

The preventative work I've had done by Lion Home Service has helped me avoid much larger bills and repairs in the future. It's much better to catch something now with the modest temperatures of fall than gambling and having to deal with major issues in the freezing part of winter.

I know I can trust Lion Home to catch an issue now that could become an issue later, here's their advice on preparing your home for winter.

Gutters and Downspouts

Clean gutters and downspouts frequently throughout the fall to prevent build up of leaves and other debris. Neglected gutters can lead to wood rot problems and pest infestations, not to mention ruined gutters. Better yet, invest in some gutter guards to help keep them clear. Be sure water is not coming down behind gutters and that all support brackets are securely in place. Ensure that water drains properly and doesn’t pool. Pooling can cause damage to foundations, driveways, and walkways.

Heating Systems

Replace the filter in your furnace. Consider having a heating professional check your heating system to ensure optimal performance and discover minor problems before they turn into costly major repairs. Clean your ducts to better your heating system’s efficiency as well as to reduce household dust and to provide relief to those with respiratory problems.

Plumbing

To prevent pipes freezing and bursting, ensure that the pipes are well insulated. Know how to locate and turn off the water shut-off valve in case pipes do freeze.

Attic ventilation & proper insulation

Be sure attic insulation doesn’t cover vents in the eaves to prevent winter ice dams on the roof. Be sure ridge vents and vents at eaves are free of plants and debris. Check bird and rodent screens for attic vents to prevent any unwanted guests. Look for these signs that your home is under insulated- fluctuating temperatures, high energy bills, cold ceilings, walls, or rooms, ice dams on your roof and frozen pipes.

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