I know, this is Southern California…what Winter?  But the Winter is a good time to complete those touch-ups you’ve been putting off.  Performing the following maintenance each fall can help protect your property’s value and prevent major repairs.

Roof, Gutters, and Downspouts – Rain, ice, snow, and wind can all cause damage to your roof and gutters.  Now’s the time to trim all tree limbs and vegetation away from the roof.  You should also remove debris, such as leaves and sticks from your gutters and downspouts.  Clogged gutters don’t allow water to property drain away from your home, which can cause seepage in your ceilings and walls.  You can also invest in “gutter guards” (a screen that prevents debris from entering the gutter and directs the flow of water away from the house and into the ground).

Water Heater – You don’t want to find out your water heater isn’t operating properly when you need it most.  So, use this time to perform an annual inspection, which includes having your tank’s pressure and temperature relief valve checked.  In addition, remove sediment from the bottom of the tank by draining two gallows of water to improve heat transfer and the efficiency of your heater.

Heating and Cooling System – If you have a forced warm-air heating system, you should check the exhaust vent and air shutter openings for dirt and dust.  For gas heaters, clean any lint and dirt from the blower blades, motor, and burner.  Vacuum air passages and replace fan belts, if necessary.  To prevent airborne dirt from circulating throughout your home, wash out your reusable filter, or replace it if’s disposable.

Doors and Windows – To help control heating costs, make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed.  Now is the time to repair, or replace, weather stripping around door bottoms and jambs, as well as window frames.  Check for loose, or missing, glazing putty and caulking for deterioration.  If you have storm windows, install them.

Water Pipes – Frozen, or burst, pipes can cause major damage to your home and be expensive to remedy.  Take it from someone who went through -22°F, this is no fun!  Before really cold weather hits, protect your pipes in unheated areas from freezing by adding insulation, which reduces heat loss from hot-water pipes and condensation on cold water pipes.  This can be accomplished by wrapping the pipes with heating tape, blanket insulation, and duct tape; or by encasing the pipes with preformed plastic foam.  In addition, examine your pipes for cracks and leaks.

Fireplace – Before you light the logs and get ready to sellte in front of a cozy fire, make sure your fireplace is in good working order.  Clean the chimney flue and, if needed, have it inspected and repaired.  Check the seal on your flue, which is designed to keep out drafts.  Replace the seal if it’s loose or damaged.  If you’re performing the fall maintenance yourself, remember to disconnect the power for any electrical or gas systems.  Remember to refer to your owner’s manual for proper instructions before inspecting, cleaning, or making any repairs.

Outdoor Surfaces and Landscaping – Fall is also a great time to seal your driveways, wood patios, and other landscape surfaces.  Beside pruning tree branches away from your home and electrical wires, plant spring flower bulbs, and move sensitive potted plants indoors.  Although this list is merely a guide, it can help you keep your home in good shape, and have a winter free from major repairs.