With the cold months on the horizon, is your home in good shape? You may be concerned that your heating will not hold up to a frosty morning. Or perhaps you have been meaning to make some minor repairs but put them off, and now fear they could be an issue come December.

You would not be the only one. For all of us at McHales, Inc., it has been our job since 1950 to see that Bucks County families are safe and comfortable in their homes. We do everything from HVAC and electrical to plumbing and remodeling, and we want to put your mind at ease this fall. Should you need us, call (267) 627-8212.

There is no better time than fall to put an end to little problems before the winter weather can exacerbate them. Here is what we would have every homeowner give some attention to as the leaves change.

An Early Look at Your Heating System

Many a homeowner has found his furnace or heat pump wanting on the coldest night of the year; it is the last time you want to be troubleshooting.

Some forethought will prevent that. We advise the following so you can count on your heat day in and day out:

• Put in a new filter or clean the old one for unimpeded air flow
• Run the system to test it out
• When it first comes on, be on the alert for odd noises or smells
• Make sure there is nothing in the way of your vents and registers
• Have a pro come by for an inspection of any wear and tear
• Verify the thermostat is doing its job

Then there are the dirty components and parts that have seen better days which will only cause your system to labor under them, with higher bills and the prospect of a breakdown to show for it. A technician will know what he is looking for and stop you from being left in the cold.

Plumbing: Guarding Against the Cold

As the mercury falls, water in your pipes is prone to freeze and expand. A burst pipe is a costly proposition when it comes to the ensuing water damage.

Prevent the headache with these measures:

• Take down and drain the garden hoses
• If there is a separate valve, turn off the water to spigots on the exterior
• Put insulation on pipes in the garage, basement or crawl space
• Be sure you can find the main shutoff
• See if there are any slow leaks about the fixtures or under the sink
• An inspection of the water heater is in order to prepare for the demands of winter

Of course, you may not be able to put your finger on every problem. Unusual sounds, dampness or low pressure are reason enough to bring in a licensed plumber.

Your Electricals and the Holidays

The cooler weather means more electronics and lights in use and more hours inside. All that can put a strain on things and expose issues that were not apparent in the summer.

Give your home once over:

• New batteries in the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Any scorch marks or damage to the outlets and cords?
• Do not put too much on a circuit with holiday lights and space heaters
• Confirm that outdoor fixtures and outlets are in working order and weatherproof
• Note any breakers with a habit of tripping or lights that flicker

Electrical work can be hazardous, so if something does not seem right, let one of our electricians put it to rights.

Other Matters Around the House

Smaller chores like tending to the gutters, the weatherstripping on your windows and doors, and sealing up drafts will go a long way to the efficiency and comfort of your home.

If you have been contemplating a remodel of the kitchen or bath, fall is as good a time as any to put some plans in motion ahead of the holidays. We can outline the possibilities for you.

What makes homeowners put their trust in McHales?

We are a family business, fully licensed and insured, and take pride in the service we provide in Bucks County and environs such as Levittown, Bensalem, Willow Grove, Warminster, Yardley, Southampton and Horsham, as well as Lawrence Township and Willingboro in New Jersey. The Better Business Bureau has given us an A+ rating and accreditation. Our technicians are considerate of your home, using work mats and shoe covers. And should the situation be urgent, we are on hand 24/7.

Do not put it off until the first cold snap reveals a flaw. Get in touch with McHales, Inc. at (267) 627-8212 and we will have you set for the winter.