Stay Cozy This Winter: Key Chores for Your Home

Essential tips to prepare your home for winter weather.

Winter is just around the corner and we’re excited!  Finally our favorite time of the year, when it might finally be cold enough we don’t have to have the HVAC on all day! No, no, we’re joking. We know as much as you do that winter in Texas can be a bit weird. Some years we don’t drop below freezing, and other years we get tons of snow dumped on us. Since we can’t tell what winter will bring, we’re going to go over the full list of ways to prepare your home for winter. 

This time, we’re starting inside the house. We’re looking at everything that  needs to be done at least once a year, since we really don’t want to go outside right now. 

Let’s start by tackling the fans. If you forgot to do it in the fall (or didn’t need to yet) now is the time to switch your fan to rotate clockwise. This will force the warm air downwards and help keep you warmer. 

Next up, let’s hit the kitchen for a few things.

Here you’re going to want to 

Change the air filter on your refrigerator. It should be done at least every six months, and since we last did it in summer, now is the ideal time.  Look inside your refrigerator towards the back top of the inside, and that is where most filters are located. 

Change the water filter on your refrigerator. This one is an every six months task in most households, but for some it’ll be every six. Either way, for most you’re still going to be looking inside the refrigerator towards the top.  Many times it’s a matter of popping down a hatch and twisting to remove the old filter. Keep a cloth handy as it can make a bit of a mess. 

While we’re still poking at your refrigerator, take a few minutes to clean the coils. This is another one of those quarterly tasks, and somehow we still forget it. All you need is your vacuum and a brush attachment to be able to reach back behind the fridge and brush everything down. Once you’ve given them a good scrub, you’re good to go for another three months. 

Now let’s go over to your furnace and change the filters there. Since we don’t handle furnaces we can’t give you any generaltieis on where a filter will be located, but your manual should have it handy. 

Now let’s take a wander around the house. If you’re easily chilled you can do this without anything, if not, you might want to bring a candle with you. We’re going to be looking for drafts. 

As you wander see if you find any areas near doors, windows or exterior walls that are unusually cold, or where your candle flame wavers. You want to find the drafts, mark them with a pencil and then when you’re done you can come back and start the next step.
That next step is going to be one of three things. 

• Caulk or patch the hole in question. 

• If there isn’t a hole, it’s just an old window, you might consider putting up some window film for the winter. 

• If it’s a wall rather than a window, you might consider that the insulation in that area is poor and you’ll need to find out a) why it doesn’t have any, such as pests, and b) how to go about replacing or adding it.
  
  
  
  
  
  

Adding in various forms of insulation will make a huge difference in keeping your home warm this winter. Even just small tips like patching interior holes and putting film over or in the windows can as well. You’ll also notice the change that it makes in your electric bill, as the insulation will make it easier to stay at a set temperature. 

Courtesy of justynkalp

One area that does need to be looked at, but we understand if you’re not wanting to do it, would be the attic. Heat rises, and if there is no insulation in your attic, all of the heat that goes up is going to be coming out. For that reason, we firmly believe in checking it every three to six months. While up there, you’ll also want to look for any pests, holes or mold 

 Test Smoke, Carbon Monoxide Detectors

One last thing is that if you didn’t change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the fall, you need to do them now. Not only iis it a good habit, but if you’re relying on heaters or a fire place to keep warm, you need to be able to keep an eye on these levels.
While you’re at it, check on the fire extinguisher, to make sure that it’s still in date.

With that, we’re done! Well. With the inside. Now it’s time to throw on a coat and take a walk around outside, as it’s time to check the house out on the outside. 

We might as well work top to bottom while we’re doing this, so it’s up to the roof for you or whatever helpers you can wrangle for this.  

Start by taking a look at the shingles.. You’ll want to look for any that are curling or cracked, and keep an eye out for any that are missing. You’ll also need to take a look at the metal flashing around your chimney, pipes and any skylights. If any of these are an issue, you’ll need a roofer before the winter rains really hit. 

Courtesy of stux.

Next up, you’ll want to take a look at the gutters. Are there any breaks or leaks in the gutters or the downspouts?  Clean out any leaves or debris that have built up, and patch any damage you can find now. 

A final step for on top of the roof is seeing if any trees need to be trimmed back to keep pests like mice, raccoons or squirrels from making a winter home in your roof. While we don’t recommend doing it yourself unless you’re trained to do so, it does help to have an idea of whether or not it’s an issue in the first place. 

Courtesy of Marc Pascual

Once back on the ground,  let’s keep pests in mind. With colder weather coming, they’re going to look for places to keep warm. Go around looking for food and water sources they can get at, as well as any cracks or crevices. You’ll want to get rid of any water sources like dripping faucets, as well as any food they can easily get at, and patch any cracks you come across. 

While you’re looking around for water, it’s also a good time to drain your sprinkler system and any outdoor water features you have. Having those pipes explode in the depths of winter is not fun, and the damage afterwards is annoying to clean up. 

To protect your outdoor faucets from freezing, start by disconnecting any attached hoses and storing them away. Next, drain any water remaining in the faucet by opening it fully. If your faucets have shut-off valves inside the house, turn those off as well. For extra protection, cover the faucets with insulated covers, which you can find at most hardware stores. These simple steps can help prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs during the winter.

Since you have the water features and faucets cleaned up, we might as well take a look at the landscaping. Trimming back unwanted plants isn’t just a matter of pulling out things that you didn’t want growing, it’s also a matter of reducing hiding spots for pests, and protecting the foundation of your home if they’re growing too close.  All of this is most easily done during colder weather. 

Next up, we’ll want to tackle the dryer exhaust duct. It’s one that you need to do at least once a year, as too much build up can prevent your dryer from not only drying efficiently, but it can cause house fires. If you can access it on your own, you might not need to call in a professional. Make sure to vacuum every nook and cranny though, or you’ll have to do this again much sooner than next winter. 

Our final two tips are to clean out and cover your grill.
It’s time to give it a good deep cleaning before you put it away for the winter. Scrub the grates, scrub the outside and make sure to follow any of the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Now that your home is winter-ready inside and out, you can enjoy the season without worrying about unexpected surprises. Whether you’re relaxing by the fire or spending time with loved ones, knowing your home is prepped can bring peace of mind.

If you discover any issues with your appliances along the way—whether it’s a refrigerator coil that won’t stay clean or a dryer duct that needs professional attention—our team at Appliance Rescue Service is here to help. We’ll ensure your appliances stay in top shape, so you can focus on what truly matters this winter. Reach out today and let us handle the rest!

Website

Call: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

Common Appliance Issues That Could Ruin Your Holiday – And How to Prevent Them

Prepare Your Home for Fall: Essential Maintenance Tips

Beat the Heat: Preparing Your Texas Home for Summer

 37 Reasons To Have Your Appliances Maintained Regularly

Fact Check: Common Appliance Maintenance Beliefs Debunked

Avoid common pitfalls with our debunking guide

Keeping your home running smoothly can feel like a juggling act, especially when it comes to your appliances. With so much conflicting advice out there, how do you know what’s true and what’s just a myth? In this true/false guide, we’ll clear up some of the most common misconceptions about appliance care. Whether it's knowing when to clean your dryer or understanding why overstuffing your fridge can backfire, we're here to help you navigate the world of appliance maintenance with confidence and ease.

Do you think cleaning your appliances just once a year is enough?

Unequivocally false. Certain pieces of your appliances only need to be cleaned once a year; many of them need to be cleaned at least once a quarter. For example, your dryer’s vent hose needs to be cleaned every 6 months to a year. But the inside of your dryer should be cleaned quarterly, and the lint catch on the inside of the dryer should be cleaned every time you do laundry.

Can you chuck those boring manufacturer’s directions after setup?

We know they're boring. Unfortunately, we are not the ones tasked with writing and making appliance manuals clean and easy to read. But we do not advise chucking them in the trash. Many of them come with important warranty information as well as what different errors or sounds can mean or how to set up and use some of the various features. So, instead, we suggest sticking them into a file with all of your other appliance manuals.

Does stuffing your appliances to the brim save you cash?

Many of us make this mistake. Whether it's the washing machine or the refrigerator, stuffing it to the gills does not help your electric bill. In fact, by putting too much into any of your appliances, you can often end up damaging them in different ways. The impact varies from appliance to appliance, and we’ll provide additional reading links at the bottom to explore this further.

Can all maintenance tasks be done by you, the homeowner?

While the more skeptical reader might say, “Of course an appliance repair company would say no,” there's a valid reason. Many times, specialized tools are required for appliance repairs. Manufacturers design their appliances with this complexity to necessitate professional servicing. There's also a safety concern, especially with electronics. Unless you are experienced with electronics, we do not recommend DIY attempts. While many repairs can be done yourself, there are some that should be left to professionals.

Do you think any old cleaning product will do the trick?

Hahahahaha. Excuse us while we catch our breath. If you have ever tried cleaning a stainless steel refrigerator with the same Lysol wipes that you use to clean your counters, you will know that this is not the case. Different cleaning formulas are designed for specific tasks. We wish there was a one-size-fits-all solution, but even we haven't found one yet.

Is regular maintenance really the key to dodging pricey repairs?

Absolutely true, and that’s why we offer maintenance services. By regularly maintaining your appliances and having them inspected, either by yourself or a professional, you can identify issues in their early stages before they lead to major breakdowns.

If the cost of materials, time, and tools is 50% or more than the appliance, should you call a professional?

This is about saving time and money. Before attempting a DIY repair, consider the tools needed, time required, and cost of materials. If these costs exceed 50% of the appliance’s original purchase price, it's wise to call a professional. Technicians have expertise and tools on hand, minimizing the risk of costly mistakes.

Is it fine to keep all appliances plugged in during repairs?

No. Even if the repair seems unrelated to electronics, always unplug appliances before starting repairs. It’s not just a safety precaution but also practical. A simple slip or twist could inadvertently activate a component or cause a mess, leading to further issues.

Is protective clothing for repairs: Overkill or essential?

Essential. While the necessity varies by task, protecting your hands and wearing gloves minimizes exposure to contaminants and ensures safety.

Can a hammer and Phillips head screwdriver handle all tasks?

Remember how we mentioned specialized tools invented by appliance manufacturers? This one is obviously false. Different appliances require specific tools designed for their components and mechanisms.

Should you diagnose the issue before starting any appliance repair?

Absolutely true. Professional repair services always perform diagnostics before proceeding with repairs. It’s crucial to identify the root cause accurately, even for seemingly straightforward issues.

Is taking notes during repairs a smart move or a waste of time?

While experienced technicians may not need notes, documenting your findings during repairs is beneficial if the project becomes overwhelming or needs professional intervention. It ensures accurate communication with technicians, aiding in efficient repairs.

Can you immediately resume using an appliance after fixing it yourself?

False. Always ensure proper functionality after DIY repairs. Whether it’s running a test load in your washer or checking replaced parts, confirm everything operates smoothly before regular use.

Should you call professionals if a repair project takes more than a few hours?

Absolutely. Some repairs, especially involving multiple appliance components, can be complex and time-consuming. If you’ve invested hours without progress, it’s best to seek professional assistance to ensure a proper fix and save your valuable time.

Keeping your appliances in top shape doesn’t have to be a daunting task. You can ensure your appliances run smoothly and efficiently by debunking these common myths and following the right maintenance tips. But remember, some repairs and maintenance tasks are best left to the professionals. At Appliance Rescue Service, we’re here to help with expert repairs and maintenance services that keep your home running without a hitch. Contact us today to schedule a service and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your appliances are in good hands.

Website
Phone: (214) 599-0055

Additional Reading

Don't Let Your Dryer Become a Fire Hazard

Test Your Refrigerator IQ

37 Reasons To Have Your Appliances Maintained Regularly

Beat the Heat: Preparing Your Texas Home for Summer

Essential Tasks to Keep Your Home Running Smoothly When the Heat Hits

Can you feel the warmth in the air? It's a sign that summer is already on its way! But before you start planning your vacation trip and weekend barbecues, your home needs to be prepared for the season too. There are plenty of tasks that you can do around the house to keep it cool and running smoothly during the hot months. Don't worry, though, we've got you covered. We'll guide you through each step so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the summer season without any worries.

We've sorted the tasks by inside the home and outside the home; so that you can do each task as the weather allows.

Inside the House

Ceiling Fan Rotation

Make sure to change your ceiling fan rotation Courtesy of eak_kkk

This one is relatively simple. As the year changes, you can benefit from changing the rotational direction of your fan. During the summer, it's best to have your fan turning counterclockwise. This pushes the cool air down towards the floor and helps you stay cool.

Plumbing Checks 

Check Valves And Hoses

The valves and hoses for your washing machine, and your interior and exterior faucets all have connection points that can become loose and even break. As we are heading into summer and you're doing more you want to go ahead and check on these this way you catch any trouble before it starts. You will almost certainly need a professional to make any major changes, but just checking and finding trouble spots is something you can absolutely do on your own.

Inspect Your Pipes

As we all know, summer in Texas is ridiculously hot and dry. Unfortunately, that heat and lack of moisture can cause your pipes to deteriorate and crack. That can then cause the pipes to leak or, in a worst-case scenario, burst. So before you start forcing hundreds of gallons of water through your pipes, it's better to check on any and all of them that you can get to and catch any problems beforehand.

Insulate Your Home 

The amount of work insulation usually requires Courtesy of justynkalp

Your home's insulation is essential for keeping you comfortable in both hot and cold weather. However, if you are unsure about the quality of insulation in your home or wish to enhance the existing insulation, several options are available. Checking the insulation in your attic and walls is crucial for ensuring your home is properly insulated. However, most of us hesitate to pull down sheetrock to check the insulation. Fortunately, there are alternative options available. One of the best options is an additive that can be mixed with paint and applied to roofs, interior, and exterior walls. Although it does not replace the need for proper insulation, it has proven to make a significant difference in energy efficiency, according to testing.

Swap Out Shades For Curtains 

If you haven't already done it, we highly advise swapping out your winter shades for lighter summer curtains. Whether this means lighter in just color, or lighter in color and material is up to you. Being able to open your windows and let the breeze pour in is helpful for lowering your electric bill.

Fridge

The seasons are turning, which means it is the next time you need to clean out behind your fridge. It might not be the most glamorous task, but your fridge will most certainly appreciate being able to breathe properly. As always, make sure that you tend to the coils and any built-up dust or debris, and move your fridge back into proper alignment so that airflow can circulate around it. 

Make sure that you're using a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. You don't want to use water back here as that can damage electrical components, and then you will have a very pretty and oversized box rather than a fridge.

Now that you've tended to the outside of your fridge let's check out the inside. You'll want to closely examine the seals on your refrigerator door all the way around, first by eye and then by hand. You want to ensure that there aren't any spots that are damaged and that the seal doesn't need to be replaced. Once you've checked that out, the next step is to grab a washcloth, some warm water, and soap so that you can clean out any stickiness or debris from the seal. Making sure that your doors can close and seal properly ensures that the fridge can maintain its temperature accurately. Taking care of your fridge like this ensures a much longer and happier life on the part of your appliance.

Washer And Dryer 

Your washer and dryer need to have the seals checked, just like we did with your refrigerator. Again, you want to check by eye and then by hand for any signs of debris damage or, in the case of your washer, mold. For your dryer, you want to make sure that there isn't any accumulated lint in and around the seal. 

Since the air is already warm during summer, you will want to address the settings on your dryer for summertime. It is not uncommon for dryers to catch fire from being turned up too high. While you're at it, you should also have the filters checked and cleaned by a professional to get rid of any built-up lint. At the same time, having someone look at your washing machine filters and drains would be a good step to roll into the same call.

Now that we've done the inside of the home, let's head outside and see what we can find.

Outside the House 

Clean Gutters 

It's been a while since we pointed it out, but having your gutters cleaned at least twice a year is extremely important. If your gutters are still jammed full from winter leaves, you can easily have cracks and leaks begin to form under and around them. With time those will begin to damage your home. 

Repair Siding 

If you have wood siding or shingles, now is a great time to check for post-winter rot. You can also check for dirt or mold that might have built up during the spring and winter rains.You can also look for and repair any damaged areas, faded stain, or chipped paint.

Inspect the Roof

A roof that has become damaged over time due to winter rot. Courtesy of congerdesign

Now, we're not suggesting that you do any roof repair yourself. Between the potential for a fall and the heat, we don't think many of us would want to go up. Instead, grab your binoculars and head across the street to take a look around at your roof. You will be looking for any cracked, curling, or missing shingles on your roof. And while you're at it, you want to make sure that there isn't any damaged or missing flashing. Keep a close look on your chimneys, your pipes or any skylights that you have. Just like with the valves and hoses, if you already know where to point a professional, then youve already solved part of the problem. 

Clean The Grill 

When you've got a cooler day, you might as well open up the grill and give it a good cleaning. Most of us love cooking on the grill during the summer, whether it's for family events or just regular weeknight dinners, grills are a uniquely summertime tool. To that end, make sure you go over everything. Not just to clean it, but to make sure that the connections are still in one piece. If there are any wires or pipes, check to see that nothing has been chewed on, or destroyed by the elements. Essentially, you want to go over any piece that could break and make sure it's functioning properly and then go over any piece that can be dirty and clean it before you light your grill for the first time. 

Summer heat and way too hot in Frisco texas by Stux

As summer approaches, it's time to get your home ready for the heat and outdoor fun. From ceiling fan adjustments to grill cleanings, we've got you covered with these essential tips to ensure your home stays cool and comfortable all season long. But if you ever find yourself in need of professional assistance with your appliances, Appliance Rescue Service is just a call away. Whether it's a malfunctioning refrigerator or a faulty dryer, our team is here to help keep your home running smoothly. Don't hesitate to reach out for expert maintenance and repair services. Enjoy your summer worry-free with Appliance Rescue Service by your side.

Call: (214) 599-0055
Website 

Additional Reading
Kitchen Safety 101: Protecting Your Little Ones at Home

Organizing Your Home Before the Holiday Daze

 Halloween Horrors In Your Home?

Sensational Apple Pork

Experience the Magic of Tender Pork and Crisp Apples, Perfectly Balanced

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves you craving more? Look no further than our delightful Apple Pork recipe—a harmonious blend of savory pork, crisp apples, and a medley of spices that will elevate your dining experience to new heights. Picture succulent pork loin infused with the sweet essence of gala apples, complemented by tender baby carrots and a splash of apple cider. As the aroma fills your kitchen and anticipation builds, you know you're in for a culinary masterpiece. Join us as we explore the art of creating savory delights and discover how simple ingredients can come together to create extraordinary flavors.

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons shortening

Pork loin (1.5 lb)

2 large gala apples, sliced

10-15 baby carrots, halved

2/3 cup apple cider (any brand, hard cider or non-alcoholic)

One tablespoon lemon juice

One tablespoon honey

Salt

Pepper

one teaspoon fennel 

one teaspoon smoked paprika

two teaspoons dried parsley 

one teaspoon dried basil

Tools

Measuring cups and spoons

Knife

Cutting board

Shallow dishes

Tongs

Heavy oven-safe skillet

Meat thermometer

We know you're probably tired of hearing this, but... wash your produce. We never know when we'll have a new reader, so it's better to be safe and add it at the beginning each time.

Do not peel the apples. Cut your lovely clean gala apples into half-inch slices and discard the core. Set them aside in a dish and sprinkle them with a very minimal amount of salt, then add enough water to cover them so they won't brown up on you while you take care of other things.

Take your baby carrots and halve them longways, and set them aside as well.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Mix together your measured paprika, fennel, and parsley. Add a little salt and pepper (to taste), then use this blend of spices to season the pork. Make sure you get some all the way around the loin. Let it sit with the spices while you move to your skillet.

Place the skillet on the stovetop and set the heat to medium. Drop in your shortening and allow it to melt. If you're working with an oversized skillet, you can add some extra shortening to ensure you'll have enough to coat the bottom of the pan.

Once it's melted and you've got a good sizzle on, move the pork from the cutting board (or in our case, plate*) to the skillet. 

Add the carrots, distributing them around both sides of the pork, then drain your apples and place them in with the carrots. You can give them a little stir, but don't disturb the pork at this stage. Cut the heat.

Don some oven mitts and move the skillet from the stovetop to the oven. Set a timer for 15 minutes. We like to use this time to clean the cutting board so we can use it again when it's time to rest the cooked pork.

When your 15 minutes are up, remove the skillet from the oven, flip the pork and stir the apples and carrots. Slowly pour 1/3 cup of cider over the whole thing at this point, sprinkle with the dried basil, and return it to the oven for another 15 minutes.

After the next 15 minute window is done, take everything out of the oven again and use your meat thermometer to test the pork. Make sure the center of the thickest part of the roast is at least 145 degrees. If it isn't, put everything back into the oven and cook it a few minutes longer. No sense ruining everyone's week with food poisoning.

After the pork loin has definitely reached 145 degrees, remove it from the pan and let it rest.

Put the pan full of apples, carrots and cider back onto the burner over medium-low heat. Add your remaining 1/3 cup of cider, the honey and the lemon juice. Stir to make sure everything is incorporated. Allow it to simmer for five minutes.

While the pan is simmering, return to your pork loin and chop it into pieces an inch or two across. Toss the pork in with the apples and carrots, stir everything to coat in the cider mixture, and be ready to enjoy.

* - we spill spices if we work on the cutting board and prefer to have the rim of the plate to slow us down)

As you reflect on the culinary adventure that was our Apple Pork recipe, remember that Appliance Rescue Service is your trusted ally in the kitchen. With our dedication to excellence and commitment to customer satisfaction, we're here to ensure that your cooking experiences are nothing short of exceptional. From washer repairs to freezer maintenance, we have the expertise and resources to keep your appliances in top condition, so you can continue creating delicious meals with confidence. Reach out to us today at our website or by phone at ((214) 599-0055) and let Appliance Rescue Service help you unlock the full potential of your kitchen.

Additional Reading

Sausage Bread to Get You Rolling

Turkey Tetrazzini Takeover!