How Often to Clean a Chimney (Plus Signs and Costs)
Wondering how often to clean a chimney? The rule of thumb is an annual inspection, but you should sweep whenever creosote buildup reaches 1/8 of an inch.
Homeowner Knowledge Hub
#fall
Articles tagged #fall.
How Often to Change Furnace Filter (And Which Way It Goes)
Holding a dusty furnace filter and wondering if you waited too long? Learn exactly how often to replace it and which way the airflow arrow should point.
Furnace Smells Like Burning? When to Worry and What to Do
Did you turn on your heat for the first time this fall only to be greeted by a burning odor? Learn when to wait it out and when to evacuate.
How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs (Without Making Them Stink)
Stink bugs are invading homes this fall to seek warmth. Learn how to trap and remove them safely without triggering their foul odor, plus essential tips to seal them out.
The Safe DIY Furnace Maintenance Checklist for Fall
Prepare your heating system for winter with this safe, step-by-step DIY furnace maintenance checklist. Learn exactly what you can clean yourself and when to call a pro.
How to Winterize Outdoor Faucets Before the First Freeze
Prevent burst pipes and expensive water damage with this 15-minute guide to winterizing your outdoor faucets before the first hard freeze hits.
Winter Ceiling Fan Direction: How to Lower Heating Bills
Don't turn off your ceiling fans this fall. Learn how changing your winter ceiling fan direction can push trapped heat down and lower your heating bills for free.
When to Pump Your Septic Tank (Before It Backs Up)
Stop guessing about your septic tank. Learn how to calculate your pumping schedule based on tank size and household size before a winter freeze causes a costly backup.
Home Power Outage Preparation: The Essential Guide
Prepare your home for unexpected grid failures with our comprehensive mid-fall guide. Learn how to build an emergency kit, compare generator options, and keep your house warm safely.
Wildfire Home Hardening: Steps to a Fireproof House
Protect your home from the biggest wildfire threat—wind-blown embers. Learn how to create a 0-5 foot defensible space and upgrade your exterior.
Hurricane Insurance Adjuster: Claim Tips for Homeowners
Navigating a hurricane claim can be overwhelming. Learn how to prepare for the adjuster's visit, document storm damage, and maximize your repair payout.
Your Complete Winterizing a Home Checklist for Fall
Don't wait for the first hard freeze. Use this comprehensive early-fall checklist to winterize your home, prevent burst pipes, and lower your heating bills.
How Deep Should Mulch Be? A Simple Bed and Garden Guide
Mulch suppresses weeds and retains moisture, but getting the depth wrong can suffocate your plants. Learn the exact measurements and materials for flower beds and raised gardens.
Basement Water Leak: How to Find the Source and Fix It
Discovering water in your basement is terrifying, but it rarely means your foundation is ruined. Learn how to diagnose the source, fix poor exterior drainage, and seal minor cracks before the heavy fall storms arrive.
How to Winterize a Swamp Cooler Before the First Freeze
Protect your home from burst pipes and winter drafts. Learn how to winterize your evaporative swamp cooler step-by-step before the first freeze hits.
The Essential Hurricane Preparedness Checklist for Home
Waiting for a named storm leads to panic buying and missed safety steps. Use this timeline-based hurricane preparedness checklist to secure your property long before the wind starts howling.
Your Essential Fall Home Maintenance Checklist Before Winter
Prepare your house for colder weather with this actionable fall home maintenance checklist. Learn how to prevent frozen pipes, seal drafts, and prep your heating system.
How to Seal Asphalt Driveway Cracks Before Winter Hits
Don't let winter freeze-thaw cycles turn tiny surface fissures into expensive potholes. Learn how to prep, fill, and seal asphalt driveway cracks like a pro before cold weather hits.