Essential Fall Home Maintenance Checklist | Prepare Your Home for Winter

As the leaves change and days grow shorter, now’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the winter season. A little preventive maintenance this fall can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your home stays warm and safe through the cold months. Use this checklist to make sure you’re ready for winter’s challenges.

Maintain Your Heating System

Your HVAC system is crucial for keeping your home warm during winter. Here are a few simple tasks to keep it running efficiently:

• Change the air filter in your furnace and check its efficiency before cold weather sets in. Stock up on extra filters and change them monthly.
• Schedule an HVAC technician to test heating output, provide a tune-up, and check for any hazardous carbon monoxide levels.
• Install a programmable thermostat to save on energy costs by setting your temperature efficiently.
• After tuning your furnace, inspect your heating ducts and vents, cleaning out any dust or debris.

Check for Drafts

Keep your home warm by ensuring your doors and windows are properly sealed.

• Inspect windows for leaks. If you feel cold air coming through, use a plastic sealing kit to improve insulation.
• Check doors and replace weather stripping as needed to prevent heat from escaping.

Clean and Inspect Your Chimney, Fireplace, or Woodstove

If you plan to use your fireplace or woodstove often, it’s wise to:

• Schedule a chimney inspection and sweep if needed.
• Ensure you have seasoned firewood stored safely for efficient burning.

Fire Safety

As heating systems start up, it's a good time to review fire safety:

• Check fire extinguishers and replace them if necessary.
• Change the batteries in your smoke detectors and test them.
• Review your fire escape plan with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Clean Your Gutters

Fallen leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to water damage or dangerous ice buildup.

• Clear your gutters regularly to prevent water overflow and foundation damage.
• Ensure your downspouts direct water away from walkways, driveways, and the foundation to avoid icy hazards.

Trim Branches and Yard Maintenance

Prepare your yard for the winter:

• Trim any overhanging branches that could snap in winter storms and damage your home.
• Rake fallen leaves and dispose of them according to your local guidelines to protect your lawn.
• Mow and water your lawn until the first frost to promote healthy grass come spring.
• Aerate and fertilize your lawn to help the roots prepare for winter, and consider overseeding bare spots.

Winterize Outdoor Equipment and Furniture

• Store your lawnmower and patio furniture after cleaning and performing any necessary maintenance.
• Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor faucets to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Prepare your snow blower by ensuring it’s in good working order and properly storing gasoline.

Roof Inspection

• Inspect your roof or hire a professional to check for wear and tear. Replace damaged shingles and check flashing around chimneys and skylights to prevent leaks.

Test Your Emergency Generator

• If you live in an area prone to ice storms, test your generator to make sure it's working properly. Be sure to run it in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide hazards.

By following these fall maintenance tips, you’ll protect your home and ensure a safe and cozy winter season. Considering selling your home? Now’s the time to make sure it’s in top shape. If you’re thinking of selling this fall or winter, let’s connect. A well-maintained home can increase its value and appeal to potential buyers. Call me today to learn how we can prepare your home for the market!