With the weather changing, there are a few things you can do around your home to help lower costs, prevent disaster, and set yourself up for a comfy and cozy fall. Whether you live in a house, condominium, or apartment, there are always ways you can prepare for the season change. 

Clean & Prep The Fireplace 

Many condos, apartments, and houses are equipped with a fireplace to give you the cozy essence of fall. Before you fire up the fireplace this autumn, make sure it's clean and ready to go. It's suggested that your fireplace & chimney should be cleaned and inspected every 50 burns to ensure that it's ready to be used. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), FEMA, and Ready.gov, 45% of home fires are in the fall months when most Americans use their fireplaces to keep warm.

If your fireplace is electric or gas, it's suggested that you clean the glass, the logs, and the interior as needed. Gas log sets require little cleaning or maintenance. However, if soot begins to build up and discolor the logs, then remove the logs, and gently brush the soot with a paintbrush. Do not wash or damp-wipe logs, as that can fade or damage the finish, or spray with cleaners.

You should also replace the batteries in your fireplace remotes. If you ever need to shut down your fireplace quickly, you’ll know there are fresh batteries in the remote.

Check Smoke Detectors

Any season change is a great time to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors. According to U.S. Fire Administration, 96% of all homes in the United States have had some form of fire or smoke-related damage. Having a smoke detector that you're confident works, can limit the smoke-related damages that could occur to your home. 

Run Your Heater

Run your heater or turn on your heat to be sure it works. It’s all good and well in the summer when the sun is shining, but when fall rolls around, damp and cold conditions can reveal hidden issues. While not using your heat in the summer, something could have broken. It would be tough to find out your heat doesn't work in the middle of a cold, rainy, or even snowy day when all you want to do is stay warm, comfortable, and cozy. 

As the weather gets colder, you want to be sure your pipes aren't going to freeze. It's important to run water through the pipes to help prevent pipes from freezing. You can also keep your thermostat to the same temperature all day long rather than adjusting it regularly.  

Increase The Lighting

As summer comes to an end and fall rolls around, the amount of natural light decreases. Lighting has a direct effect on mood so be sure you're prepared for the dark gloomy days of fall. Whether it be a lamp, candles, or mood lights, any additional lighting can make smaller spaces feel larger and create a sense of energy within the room.

Create A Cozy Atmosphere

Creating a comfortable atmosphere is important during the colder seasons. Most likely, you'll be spending more time indoors than you did in the summer. Cleaning your apartment and even decorating it for fall can help create an enjoyable space to cozy up in during the colder weather.