With fall right around the corner, everyone in Jackson is preparing for colder weather and all of us at GR Insurance are doing the same. While GR Insurance has plenty of insurance options that offer protection in case you have a fall or winter home emergency, we also have a few tips and tricks to share that can help prevent any home emergencies.
Here are five home maintenance tips GR Insurance suggest all homeowners do this fall:
- Check smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and first aid kits
In the event that you have a small fire, like a kitchen fire, or if one of your kids accidentally cuts themselves while helping prepare dinner, it’s important that all your smoke detectors have fresh batteries, your fire extinguishers are up to date and your first aid kits are stocked. Need someone in Jackson to come check your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers?
Try Accent Security Alarms (http://www.accentsecurityonline.com/). You can also find plenty of items to stock your first aid kit at stores like Walmart and Target. Here is a list of items to have suggested by Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/get-kit/anatomy.
- Have your fireplace and chimney cleaned
It’s a good idea to inspect and clean your chimney twice a year to ensure there’s no debris or soot blocking the chimney. Here are a few chimney cleaners to check out: Fireplace Chimney Sweep Solutions (http://chimneysweepms.com/) or The Chimney Man (http://www.thechimneyman.net/)
- Check your windows for potential holes or spaces
Inspect your windows for any gaps or spaces that can leak out hot air or let cold air in. Also, if you live in an older home, consider installing new windows. Thicker paned glass means better insulation and make a big difference in lowering your heating bill each month.
Here are a few window companies in Jackson to check out: Window World (http://www.windowworldcape.com/) or Cape Glass and Tinting (http://capeglassandtinting.com/).
- Have your roof inspected
Have your roof inspected for any holes or weak areas. Nothing ruins a winter quite like a leaky roof! Here are a few roof companies to check out: Michael Evans Roofing Contractor (573-243-2587), JMAR Construction LLC (http://www.jmarconstructionllc.com/).
- Inspect your heating system
Test out your heating system to make sure it’s in working order (and to make sure you can enjoy cold winter nights snuggled up on the couch). If your heating system isn’t performing up-to-par, try contacting Ziegler Plumbing & Heating (573-243-1188) or Peters Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. (http://www.petersheatingandair.biz/).
What other fall maintenance tips do you have? Share them in the comment section below!