Fall is the perfect time to get ahead of the colder months before the temperature really drops. A little bit of prep now can save you from bigger headaches, and bigger repair bills, once winter sets in. Here’s a simple checklist to walk through as the season changes.
Check Your Heating System
Your furnace or heat pump has probably been sitting unused most of the summer, so fall is the time to make sure it’s ready to go. Replace the air filter if it hasn’t been changed in a few months, and consider scheduling a professional tune up before the weather turns cold. A quick inspection can catch small issues before they turn into a no heat emergency in January.
While you’re at it, test your thermostat to make sure it’s working properly, especially if you have a programmable or smart model that needs updated schedules for the season.
Clean Out the Gutters
Falling leaves make gutters one of the biggest fall maintenance tasks. Clogged gutters can lead to water backing up under your roofline or freezing in the colder months, which can cause damage to your roof and siding. Clear out leaves and debris, and check that downspouts are directing water away from your foundation.
If you notice sagging gutters or loose brackets while you’re up there, fall is a good time to get those fixed before ice adds extra weight to the system.
Inspect the Roof and Chimney
Take a look at your roof for any missing or damaged shingles before winter weather adds more stress to small problems. If you have a fireplace, this is also a good time to schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning, especially if you plan on using it regularly once it gets colder.
Catching a small roof or chimney issue in the fall is a lot easier than dealing with it during a winter storm.
Seal Up Drafts and Check Insulation
Cold air finding its way in through small gaps can drive up heating costs fast. Walk around windows and doors checking for drafts, and add weatherstripping or caulk where needed. It’s also worth checking your attic insulation, since older or thin insulation can let a lot of heat escape.
These fixes are usually quick and affordable, but they can make a noticeable difference in comfort and energy bills once the furnace starts running regularly.
Handle Outdoor Plumbing
Before the first hard freeze, disconnect and drain garden hoses, then shut off and drain outdoor faucets if your home has that option. Frozen pipes are one of the most common and preventable cold weather issues, so taking care of this early saves a lot of trouble later.
If your home has a sprinkler system, this is also the time to have it blown out and winterized.
Prep the Yard and Exterior
Fall cleanup goes beyond raking leaves. Trim back any tree branches hanging close to the house or power lines, since heavy snow or ice can cause them to break. Store away outdoor furniture and equipment that won’t be used again until spring, and give your deck or patio a quick inspection for any wear that needs attention.
If you have a lawn, fall is also a good time for a final mow, fertilizing, and clearing out garden beds for the season.
Test Safety Devices
With more time spent indoors and heating systems running, fall is a great reminder to test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if needed, and check the expiration dates on the units themselves, since most detectors need to be replaced every several years.
This is also a good time to make sure your fire extinguisher is easily accessible and hasn’t expired.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I schedule furnace maintenance in the fall?
Early fall is ideal, before the weather turns cold and HVAC companies get busy with emergency calls. Getting it done early also gives you time to schedule repairs if anything comes up during the inspection.
How often should gutters be cleaned in the fall?
Most homes need at least one thorough cleaning in the fall once most of the leaves have dropped, though homes with a lot of trees nearby may need it done twice.
Do I really need to drain outdoor faucets before winter?
Yes, leaving water in outdoor faucets or hoses can lead to frozen and burst pipes once temperatures drop, which can be a costly repair.
What’s the most commonly overlooked fall home maintenance task?
Checking attic insulation and sealing drafts around windows and doors often gets skipped, even though it has a big impact on heating costs once winter arrives.
How do I know if my chimney needs cleaning before I use it this season?
If it’s been a year or more since your last cleaning, or you notice a smoky smell or reduced draft, it’s worth having it inspected before lighting a fire.