Fall is in the air, and winter will be here before more homeowners know it. Before temperatures drop and storms come in, take this time to ensure your home is ready for the colder months. Complete the following fall home maintenance checklist each year to avoid expensive and time-consuming emergency repairs. These tips may also help you save on your utility bills and keep your family more comfortable during winter.
1. Adjust the Thermostat
If your home has a thermostat, take time to adjust the levels for colder weather. To save money on your heating bill, keep temperatures colder at night or during times when you’re not in the home. Additionally, remove any window air conditioning units and properly seal the windows to ensure cold air does not flow into the home.
2. Inspect the Chimney
If you have a chimney and intend to use it throughout the winter, take time to ensure it is clear of any fire hazards, like debris. Homeowners can hire a contractor to complete this task or choose to do it themselves. When clearing the chimney, stick a large brush through the top entrance and clear the pathway. While cleaning the chimney, take a moment to inspect for any cracks or signs of damage.
Even if you do not plan to use your chimney this winter, taking time to routinely clean the passageway can also ensure other debris does not fall into your home.
3. Check for Drafts Around Doors and Windows
Cold air can be an uncomfortable nuisance and a costly oversight. Before the cold air kicks in, look at every door and window in the home. There are various solutions to a cold air problem, including caulking, weatherstripping, or fully repairing a broken seal.
In extreme cases, you may need to replace your windows. However, most homeowners will know if this problem exists in their home before conducting a routine search.
4.Check the Furnace
You’ll need your furnace once the cold weather hits, so take time to ensure it’s functioning properly after the summer. First, check the filter to see if it’s clean or needs replacing, then clean up any debris or objects around the furnace that could be a fire hazard. Turn the furnace on and conduct a test to ensure your home is heating properly, and contact an HVAC professional if the temperature does not change. Also, take time to ensure your oil tank is full if the furnace uses oil.
5. Clean the Humidifier
The winter air can dry your home, affecting your skin and making you uncomfortable. If you use a humidifier in the winter, ensure it’s clean by replacing any filters. Take the device apart and thoroughly rinse any pieces. Humidifiers can quickly grow dirty, and you should clean the device weekly when using. <<
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6. Clear Falling Leaves
The fall leaves can be charming, but they’ll be difficult to clear in the spring season once they’re covered in snow. Additionally, leaves on the ground in the spring can limit grass growth and encourage mold growth from any wet snow.
Rake up falling leaves throughout the season and dispose of them in an appropriate manner. If you have a wooded backyard, you can bring them to the woods. Double-check your property line and follow local protocols for proper leaf removal.
7. Clear Gutters
Homeowners should clear their gutters before winter to properly drain storm water and remain intact. Leaves and other debris can block pathways for water, decreasing their efficiency. In extreme cases, wet leaves may weigh down the gutter, causing breaks and damage. Grab a ladder and the glove, then head up to the gutter and pull or push the material out.
Most homeowners complete this step as close to winter as possible. However, you may need to clean the gutters more often if you live in an area with many falling leaves. Additionally, you can purchase gutter guards that keep larger items out while still allowing water to drain.
8. Remove Outdoor Furniture
Outside furniture can suffer damage during the winter, so it’s best to bring it inside and place it in the garage, basement, or other storage facility. Before bringing the furniture in, clean the pieces to make the setting up processes easier in the spring and summer.
9. Purchase Snow Removal Supplies
The last place you want to be the day before a snowstorm is the hardware store looking for a shovel. Save yourself the hassle and purchase your snow removal supplies now. If you already own a snow blower, ensure it’s working properly by turning it on and replacing any old fuel.
10. Inspect the Roof
Roofs can suffer extensive damage from powerful storms and must start the season in peak conditions. Clear the roof of any debris like fallen leaves, and look for any potential leaks, damages, or landscape overgrowth.
If you find an area of concern, connect with a contractor to fix the roof before the cold rolls through. This will keep the problem from getting worse, saving time and money.
Conclusion
Owning property requires constant upkeep and time management, and changing seasons can quickly pile on additional tasks. Find ways to fit in smaller tasks, like testing a snow blower, after work. As you prep your home for fall, group similar tasks together, like checking the gutters and the roof, to save time for more exciting autumn activities.
