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Should You Cover an Outdoor AC Unit for Winter?

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Key Takeaways Most cooling-only outdoor central AC units do not need a full winter cover because they are designed to remain outdoors. Never put a solid storage cover over a heat pump that operates during winter; it needs open airflow. If falling leaves or debris are a specific problem, consider limited protection over the top rather than wrapping the entire unit. For a window AC, check the manufacturer’s instructions to decide whether to remove it or protect it in place. Table of Contents Should you cover an outdoor AC unit for winter? Why a full AC cover can create problems When limited protection may make sense Heat pumps need a different winter plan What to do with a window air conditioner How to prepare a cooling-only outdoor AC for winter Advice for first-time homeowners and experienced owners Frequently Asked Questions Key points to remember Should you cover an outdoor AC unit for winter? Usually, no—not with a full enclosure. Most outdoor central air conditioner...
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How to Seal an Attic Hatch Before Winter

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Key Takeaways To seal an attic hatch, close the air gaps around its frame with caulk where appropriate and install weatherstripping along the hatch’s contact edges. The hatch needs to press evenly against the weatherstripping; stops and hooks or another latch can help create that contact when the panel rests on trim. After sealing the perimeter, add fiberglass or rigid foam insulation to the back of a simple hatch, while keeping electrical and fire hazards in mind. Pull-down attic stairs need weatherstripping too, and an insulated cover can help address the larger opening. Table of Contents Why does an attic hatch cause drafts? What to inspect before you seal an attic hatch Which materials and closure method do you need? How to seal the hatch perimeter step by step How to insulate the hatch panel How to handle pull-down stairs and frequent attic access Common mistakes that leave drafts behind Which approach fits your situation? Frequently Asked Questions Key takeaways A...
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How to Clear Leaves From Window Well Drains Before Fall Storms

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Key Takeaways Remove leaves and loose debris from the window well before a storm, then uncover and inspect the drain opening. Use a small rake or shop vacuum for loose material, as Window Well Supply recommends for clearing window well debris. Do not assume every well drains the same way: identify whether yours has a visible drain, gravel, or another arrangement before probing or pouring water into it. If water is already entering the basement, or the drain appears blocked below the surface, stop routine cleaning and address the drainage problem safely. Table of Contents Why clear leaves from window well drains before a storm? What to gather before cleaning a window well How to clear leaves from a window well drain step by step How to tell whether the drain is actually clear What not to do when cleaning a window well How often should you inspect a window well in fall? What to do if water still collects after cleaning Advice for first-time homeowners and repeat maintainers C...
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How to Store a Lawn Mower for Winter: A Practical Checklist

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Key Takeaways Clean the mower, inspect it for wear, and store it dry and protected before winter. For a gas mower, follow the owner’s manual for fuel and oil; Alabama Cooperative Extension recommends fuel stabilizer when a mower will sit unused for more than 30 days. Remove batteries from cordless mowers and keep them indoors in a cool, dry place away from freezing temperatures and metal surfaces. Disconnect the spark plug before working on a gas mower, and keep the machine off damp floors during storage. Table of Contents How to store a lawn mower for winter: the basic sequence How should you prepare a gas lawn mower for winter? How do you store a battery-powered or electric mower? How do you clean and inspect a mower before storage? What should you do with the mower blade and moving parts? Where should you store a lawn mower during winter? Which winter-storage plan fits your situation? Common winter-storage mistakes to avoid Frequently Asked Questions Key points to remem...
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How to Winterize a Pressure Washer Before a Freeze

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Key Takeaways Winterize before freezing weather by clearing detergent and water from the pressure washer, hoses, spray gun, and attachments. Briggs & Stratton’s gas-engine procedure runs clean water through the system on low pressure for 2 minutes, then drains the accessories and pump. Use pump saver or antifreeze only when your model’s instructions call for it, and follow the product directions. Gas and electric models do not share every step: a recoil-handle procedure applies only to equipment with that feature. Table of Contents Why winterizing a pressure washer matters What to gather before you start How to winterize a pressure washer step by step Should you use antifreeze or pump saver? Gas vs. electric pressure washers: which steps change? How to store the washer after draining it Common winterizing mistakes and how to avoid them Frequently Asked Questions Quick winterizing checklist To winterize a pressure washer before freezing weather, flush out detergent, r...
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