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Prep Your Home for Cooler Temperatures with Our Fall Maintenance Checklist

September 10, 2024

Prep Your Home for Cooler Temperatures with Our Fall Maintenance Checklist

Fall is upon us! Which means it’s time to get your home ready for cooler temperatures. Carrying out certain seasonal tasks can extend the lifespan of your home and ensure the safety of you and your family. What’s more, routine maintenance can help lower your utility expenses.

Getting these tasks done is often easier said than done, so we recommend breaking up your list into sections. The following checklist covers essential areas to keeping your home running smoothly during the fall and winter months.

Section 1: Outdoor and Yard Prep

Trim Trees and Shrubs: Late summer is the best time to do this as the summer growth cycle has ended. Be sure to trim any dead branches that could cause damage. Next, trim any overgrowth to size so your plants will be healthy for spring. 

Cover Outdoor Furniture: Protect your outdoor items—such as patio furniture and grilling equipment—from the elements with durable covers.

Section 2: Exterior Maintenance

Inspect the Roof: Your roof is your first line of defense against harsh weather. Be sure to note any missing shingles or damage.  You should also check for mildew or moss.      

Clean the Gutters: Once all the leaves have fallen, clean out all debris from your gutters. Do this once or twice a year as prevention from damage.

Seal Windows and Doors: For any obvious drafts or gaps, apply caulking or weather stripping. Additional measures include window insulation film, door sweeps, and draft stoppers.

Protect Outdoor Faucets: First, shut off the water supply. If any hoses are connected, be sure to drain and disconnect them. To protect against freezing weather, install insulated covers to active conventional faucets.

Check the Chimney and Fireplace: Have your chimney inspected by a professional for the winter months. Check for cracks or damage that need to be addressed.

Section 3: Heating System Check

Check the Furnace: At least once a year, you should have your furnace inspected by a professional. Be sure to clean or replace your furnace filters. This will improve airflow and reduce strain on your heating system.

Section 4: Interior Home Preparation

Reverse Ceiling Fans: As temperatures start to cool down, set your ceiling fan rotation clockwise. Doing this will pull warmer air near the ceiling back down requiring less heat from your furnace.

Check Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors: Functioning carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are especially critical in winter months. Make sure your detectors are clean and free from any dust that could be blocking its sensors. Check that the alarm is working by pressing the ‘test’ button.

Addressing these tasks early will allow you to handle any necessary repairs before the chill sets in. With this proactive approach, you can save money, improve safety, and have peace of mind as colder weather approaches!