If you live in the DC-Maryland-Virginia area, this is your definitive fall to-do list—including why your insulation needs replacing before winter.
Fall is here and winter is right around the corner! Have you made the most out of your fall? Perhaps more importantly, are you ready for another seasonal change? Here’s a helpful checklist of fun things (and not-so-fun things) that you might want to get done before December 21st—the start of the winter solstice.
Go for a hike
Hiking is a great form of exercise, so it’s no surprise that it comes with some fantastic health benefits. Besides that, it’s also a social activity. Curbed DC published an article with the best places in the D.C. area for hiking. It’s definitely worth a look!
Reverse the direction of your ceiling fan
Fun? Not really. Easy? Yes. Money-saving? Double yes.
Most ceiling fans are now made with a switch that reverses blade direction. It’s tiny and easy to miss, but it matters! In fall, push warm air downward to raise your thermostat by a couple of degrees and save up to 10% on heating costs.
Go pumpkin-picking
Pumpkin-flavored everything is a fall staple. Arguably, the best of these treats is pumpkin pie.
Sure, you could always go to the grocery store, but what’s the fun in that? If you live in the DMV, Larriland Farm in Woodbine, MD is a great place to go pumpkin (or apple) picking.
Drain your outside water lines and faucets
If water is left in your outside faucets, it could freeze and cause your pipes to burst.
Start by turning off the water lines inside your house. Then, open your outside spigots to drain the water. If water keeps leaking, check that your shutoff valves are fully closed—or consider replacing them.
Tailgate at your favorite team’s football games
Break out the jerseys and the folding chairs! No need to make suggestions—we’re sure everyone’s got a favorite team.
Check for air leakage around your home
Did you know air leakage accounts for up to 25% of energy waste in a home?
Sealing air leaks is one of the most cost-effective projects you can do for your house.
Air leakage occurs when outside air enters and conditioned air exits the home through cracks and openings. Walk around your home. Look for cracks or gaps around doors, windows, and where wires or pipes pass through walls. Re-caulk where needed. Inside your home, check ceilings and insulation for dark spots—they’re often signs of air leaks.
You may qualify for Energy Star rebates for sealing air leaks. Ask our team at Cameron how to apply. Call (443) 459-5800
Make chili
Whether you’re using a go-to recipe or trying something new, shop local. Washington DC has a great list of farmers’ markets with seasonal produce.
Test your alarm systems
Before using your fireplace or hanging holiday lights, test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Also, make sure you have at least one working fire extinguisher. Check the pressure dial—it should be in the green zone.
Tour a winery
After hiking Sugarloaf Mountain, treat yourself to a glass at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. It’s the perfect fall reward.
Replace old insulation
There are a few ways to tell if your insulation needs replacing. Stains, mold, drafts, or high energy bills are all common signs.
Ineffective insulation can also lead to uneven indoor temperatures. Replacing it—especially with spray foam—offers long-term comfort and cost savings.
For more signs, read our blog: 6 Signs that Your Insulation Needs Replacing
Attend a fall festival
Balloon launches, chocolate-making, fire-eating, puppet shows—any of these sound fun? You’ll find all of it (plus some colonial history) at the Colonial Market & Fair at Mount Vernon.
Final Tip: Winterize Now, Enjoy Later
Whatever you decide to do this fall, make sure your home is ready for winter. Don’t wait until temperatures drop. If your insulation needs replacing, now is the time to act. You’ll save on energy, improve comfort, and protect your home from costly damage.