5 Seasonal DIY Home
Improvement Projects
(Family Features) The
calendar pages may be
turning fast, but it's not
too late to do some work
around the house. Now is
the time to wrap up home
improvement projects before
the weather turns too cold.
Consider these five easy DIY
tasks that can set you up for a
warm, safe and pest-free fall:
Perform routine HVAC
maintenance.
Heating and cooling systems
need regular service to operate
at peak efficiency. Some tasks
are best left to the pros, but
there is plenty you can do
on your own to minimize
expenses and ensure your
unit maintains its performance level.
With the breaker and gas off, wipe the
exterior of your furnace with a damp
rag then remove the access door and
vacuum the burners, base and blower
compartment. Remove and clean
the blower with a vacuum and small
brush then use a drinking straw to
blow dust off the pilot. Also inspect
the flame sensor, drive belt and air
filter, and clean or replace as needed.
Air seal drafty areas.
The gaps around windows and
door frames give unwanted air
an open invitation into a home.
However, you can quickly and easily
block the flow of air for greater
comfort and lower energy bills. If
the doors and windows are already
finished, start by removing the
trim. Prep the area by removing
dust and debris. Using a quality
32 LAKE WEDOWEE LIFE