Hi, As winter approaches, prepare the house for the colder months ahead. From the kitchen to the outdoor area, here is what you should clean before winter: 1) Chimneys - This should be among the first things considered as winter approaches. Since they sit unused during the warmer months, they may collect debris, leaves, or even animal nests. It's also important to check if it is properly cleaned after last season, as leftover soot or residue can ignite and become a serious fire hazard. 2) Windows, doors, and other entry points - Cleaning these areas helps reveal the cracks and worn-out seals that may otherwise be hidden by dirt. Finding the gaps before winter is important to prevent cold air from entering once the temperature drops. Also, if you do this your heating system won't be overworking to balance the temperature. 3) Mattress and bedding - Consider vacuuming the mattresses and washing bedding before winter. Whether the bedding has been stored properly or your mattresses are being used every day, making sure they're clean before winter helps you start the season with fresh bedding and limits dust and allergen buildup indoors. 4) Floors, carpet, and rugs - We all know high-traffic areas trap dirt, dust, and pet hair, which can mix with humidity and cause odors or mold. Make sure to clean your floor, carpet, and rugs thoroughly before winter. You can either hire professionals or rent a carpet cleaner for a budget-friendly option. 5) Ceiling fans, cooling appliances, and dehumidifiers - Before winter, dust ceiling fans and clean cooling appliances like floor fans or portable coolers. Store them to save space and protect against moisture or electrical damage. Also, clean dehumidifiers if you have one, as they're typically not needed during the dry winter months. 6) Outdoor space - Before winter, clean outdoor items like furniture, outdoor rugs, and grills. Clean and cover furniture and rugs, and store them indoors in a dry space. Thoroughly clean grills before storing, and disconnect the propane tank and keep it outdoors but protected from the sun or snow. Proper cleaning and storage help prevent rust and damage over the winter. 7) Pantry shelves - Cleaning your pantry shelves helps you check and remove expired items, reducing the risk of insects and rodents. This also helps you restock needed items and check if pests are hiding somewhere in the shelves. By doing this before winter, it will be easier and more organized. Hope this helps!
Gutters and Downspouts Fall brings with it leaves and debris in all our gutters. This frosted onset can prevent proper drainage flow when winter is knocking, causing melting snow and ice to result in serious water damage to your roof or foundation. Wash them so it won't need any hindrance in a water flow. Fireplace Before winter weather, clean a chimney and get your fireplace inspected. Soot and creosote occur as fuels for fire. A professional inspection will ensure safe use, any damage is dealt with the flue is cleaned and efficiency is increased. Regular checkups are about at the Annual Service level.
Whenever colder months roll in, I tell homeowners to prioritize eight areas: gutters, chimneys, HVAC systems, windows, attics, driveways, exterior siding, and pantry shelves. A cleaner space means fewer surprises come spring. My old boss swore by cleaning vents and replacing filters before running the heaterand it really cuts down on energy waste. I've also found that cleaning exterior siding removes debris that can trap moisture and lead to mold in wet seasons.
Clean your heating vents and your furnace filters. This provides better indoor air quality and helps ensure your heating system operates at its best when you need it most. Next is the fireplace and chimney. A thorough cleaning helps ensure fire safety and is especially beneficial if you plan to use your fireplace frequently during the winter. Clean out your garage and organize your tools and equipment in a more convenient way to make it easier to find and access what you'll need to stay warm during winter storms. Give your refrigerator a thorough cleanout before winter. Remove any expired food and thoroughly clean the fridge, including shelves and drawers. A clean refrigerator provides better food safety and can help reduce energy consumption while operating more efficiently to keep items cool. Clean your laundry appliances. This means running the recommended cleaning cycles or solutions on the washing machine, as well as clearing lint from the dryer vent. A clean appliance provides better safe operation, especially when you are using them frequently for heavy winter clothes. Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures. Dust collects on the blades and bulbs, which can restrict the ceiling fan's performance and impact air quality when the fans are turned on. Cleaning helps ensure your home is adequately lighted and ventilated through winter. One place people forget is the attic. Cleaning out your attic helps mitigate pest infestations, which is valuable since rodents often seek warmth during the colder winter months. And don't forget your pets areas. Cleaning your bed, toys, and feeding areas not only contributes to your overall cleanliness but can also be beneficial if your pet spends more time indoors during the winter.