There’s something refreshing about the arrival of fall—the crisp air, colorful leaves and cozy evenings at home. But before you settle in for the season, it’s a good idea to give your home a little attention. Tackling a few important maintenance tasks can help prevent costly problems, improve efficiency, and make your home ready to handle whatever winter brings.
1. SCHEDULE HVAC MAINTENANCE
Before you turn the heat on for the season, make sure your HVAC system is ready to keep your home comfortable. Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up, replace the furnace filter, and check that vents and registers are clear. These items can help your system run more efficiently, potentially preventing a mishap during the worst of winter.
2. CLEAN OUT THE GUTTERS
Falling leaves can quickly clog gutters and downspouts, preventing water from properly draining away from your home. Clean out leaves, twigs and other debris, then check that your downspouts are securely connected and directing water away from the foundation. It’s also worth checking for sagging or damaged sections that may need to be repaired before snow and ice arrive.
3. CHECK YOUR WEATHERSTRIPPING
Small gaps around doors and windows can let warm air escape and cold air sneak in. Inspect the weatherstripping around exterior doors and windows, and replace any areas that are cracked, worn or missing to reduce drafts.
4. HAVE YOUR CHIMNEY INSPECTED
If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, fall is the perfect time to make sure your chimney is ready for another season of use. Have it professionally inspected and cleaned as recommended to remove creosote buildup and identify potential problems. Don’t forget to check that your chimney cap is secure and in good condition, too.
5. TRIM TREES AND BRANCHES
Take a look at the trees around your property and remove dead, damaged or overhanging branches before winter storms arrive. Heavy snow and ice can put additional weight on branches, increasing the risk of them breaking and damaging your roof, vehicles or other property. For large trees or branches near power lines, consider calling a professional rather than tackling the job yourself.
6. WINTERIZE OUTDOOR FAUCETS + TOOLS
Don’t forget about the items outside your home! Disconnect and store garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets and, if applicable, shut off interior water supply valves to prevent frozen pipes.
Give lawn and garden equipment a little attention, too. Clean and properly store tools, drain fuel from gas-powered equipment as recommended by the manufacturer and move anything that could be damaged by freezing temperatures into a protected space.
7. CHECK FOR UNWANTED ENTRY POINTS
As temperatures drop, critters may start looking for a warm place to spend the winter—and your home can look pretty inviting. Walk around your property and check for cracks, gaps and openings around the foundation, roofline, vents, doors and windows. Pay particular attention to areas where pipes, wires, and other utilities enter the home. Seal appropriate openings and repair damaged screens or vents to help keep unwanted guests outside where they belong.
8. STOCK UP ON WINTER SUPPLIES
Finally, make sure you have the essentials before the first major winter storm hits. Stock up on items such as sidewalk salt or ice melt, snow shovels, and other winter supplies. It’s also a good idea to check your emergency supplies, flashlights, batteries, and backup essentials so you’re prepared if a winter storm causes a power outage or makes travel difficult.
A little preparation in the fall can go a long way toward protecting your home and comfort. By checking these items off your list before temperatures drop, you’ll be able to enjoy the season knowing your home is ready for winter. So grab your list, take a walk around your property, and get a jumpstart on fall maintenance!