Your November Home Checklist consists of maintenance and prepping your home for the holiday season. I separate these tasks into fun things and things that are mandatory to maintain your home. We will start with the home mandatory maintenance checklist:
1. Check all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to see if they are working and replace all batteries. Carbon monoxide detectors need to be 15 feet from every bedroom. If you have propane, oil or natural gas in your home, carbon monoxide detectors are mandatory.
2. Stock up on 9Volt, AAA and AA batteries or whatever is needed for a flashlight, smoke detectors and other home necessities. I always make sure I have plenty of candles and a lighter just in case the power goes out.
3. Service your HVAC system, as well as have your chimney cleaned and dampers checked by a local chimney professional. Replace all air filters every 2 months.
4. Make sure your sump pump is working. Replace or repair if needed.
5. Remove leaves from all gutters, flower beds and yard. Leaves can cover drains and clog downspouts which can cause water to back up and flood your home.
6. Turn all outdoor water spigots off from the main on/off switch in house. If left on, pipes could freeze and bust which could cause flooding.
7. Remove all lint from your dryer exhaust vent. It is suggested to blow or snake these lines out to remove all lint that could be a fire hazard.
8. Clean, service and put away your lawn mower and equipment for the season.
9. Check the exterior of your home for any holes that mice can enter and fill with rodent block expanding foam barrier. Make sure all exterior doors have door sweeps on the bottom of the door and exterior vents are covered with hardware cloth.
10. Caulk all bath tubs and around bathroom sinks. Worn out caulk allows water to seep in.
11. Check all sidewalks for loose stones or uneven surface. Make sure all handrailing is secure.
12. Be prepared for winter with snow shovels, ice scrapers and ice melt. Make sure snow blower & home generator is serviced & fueled.
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