It is beautiful here in Pullman Washington, but the night time temperatures are beginning to drop a bit. I know last night we dipped into the 40's and I believe last week into the 30's. Most of my listings this year have SOLD, or we have temporary month to month tenants in them. But it is important to keep in mind the cooler weather is just around the corner.
This is the time to have your furnace checked to make sure it is running in tip top order. A well maintained furnace will last longer and run more efficiently, thus saving you money. And don't forget to have plenty of filters on hand. They do need to be changed regularly. In fact, for those listings of mine that have tenants, I often encourage them to provide them for their tenant and send reminders to change them monthly when they send a receipt for their monthly rent received. It is a low cost way to ensure those filters are indeed being changed. And much more cost effective than a service call for a dirty furnace.
It is also a good idea to remind your tenant that if they should leave for an extended period of time, not to shut OFF the furnace. But instead keep it at a minimum 52 degrees to avoid freezing pipes.
I also highly recommend contacting the local utility company, in our case here in Pullman Washington, Avista Utilities and let them know you want to be notified if the service is disconnected due to non-payment. Freezing pipes often lead to a bursting pipe that can a lot of damage and expense.
May I also suggest enlisting a neighbor's help. Find a neighbor that you can leave a key with in case of emergency. I find this especially important in the case where you are away from your home and there is a power outage. A neighbor will be alerted to the fact that power has gone off as they live in the neighborhood. Then once it is restored can go and check to be sure everything is up working again, especially the furnace.
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Lori- I can't imagine it already dipping into the 30's at night in September! Brrr....
It's finally starting to cool off here a little in Georgia. It's not supposed to get above 68 today and for here that's brisk this time of year!