Portland, OR (PRWEB) September 22, 2014 -- Here in the Northwest, the signs of fall are slowly arriving: cooler temperatures, kids back to school, apple-picking, and dusting off the Halloween decorations. And, according to home performance and handyman experts from Neil Kelly Company, it’s the perfect time to tackle some home maintenance projects that can make a big difference for you and your home.
“Whether you choose the DIY route or have a professional handle them, it's worth the time and expense to get your home ready for the winter,” says Neil Kelly home performance expert Chad Ruhoff.
Neil Kelly Company’s Top 10 Home Maintenance Checklist
1. Home Energy Audit – Knowledge Is key: Learn where you can save money on your heating and cooling bills by signing up for a home energy audit.
2. Furnace & Filters: Before the heating season begins, have a professional give your furnace and HVAC systems a tune up. It’s best to replace furnace filters every three months.
3. Water Heater: You can reduce water heating expenses up to 35 percent by upgrading your water heater.
4. Roof Inspection: Check the quality of your shingles, are they loose or missing? Repairs now will prevent expensive repairs come spring. And, while you have the ladder out, clean out the gutters and downspouts.
5. A Blanket for Your Windows: You don’t need to replace your windows to make them more energy efficient. Install indow windows to boost your year-round comfort by blocking cold winter drafts and reducing window noise up to 50 percent.
6. Exterior Paint: Each fall, check for signs of peeling or blistering paint. These conditions could let in moisture and cause the siding to deteriorate.
7. Don't Chill Out: Check for proper weather stripping and door sweeps. You should also have a professional check for proper wall and attic insulation.
8. Be a Detector: This could save lives. Check and replace batteries in your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors.
9. Remove A/C units: Fall is the time to remove your window air conditioning units. If you choose to keep them installed, be sure to cover them outside with protective insulation.
10. Thermostats: Think about installing a new thermostat, like the Nest, which can control your big heating/cooling spend with advanced technology.
About Neil Kelly Company
The Neil Kelly Company helps Northwest homeowners care for all aspects of their homes. Services include award-winning design-build remodeling, energy upgrades and home repairs big and small. Established in 1947, the firm has a national reputation for its innovative design-build remodeling and new home construction.
With five Pacific Northwest locations in Portland, Lake Oswego, Eugene, Bend and Seattle, Neil Kelly is renowned for its innovative design and remodeling services, quality craftsmanship and sustainable building practices. Homeowners are invited to visit Neil Kelly design centers or attend free educational workshops. Visit http://www.neilkelly.com.
Tom Breunig, Neil Kelly Company, http://neilkelly.com, +1 (503) 331-9423, [email protected]
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