By
Jacques Gates
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s time to shift your focus from summer fun to fall home maintenance. Ensuring your home is prepped for the colder months can save you from a host of issues later on. Here are 10 essential fall home maintenance tips to keep your house in top shape this season.
1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
First on your list should be clearing out those gutters and downspouts. Full gutters and disconnected downspouts can’t properly channel water away from your home, leading to potential water damage and flooding. Check for debris, dirt streaks, sagging areas, and ensure downspouts are securely connected and extended away from your home.
2. Change Your Filters
Dirty filters can restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder and less efficiently. Take a look at your filters—if they’re dirty, cupped inwards, or covered in dust and dirt, it’s time for a change. Remember, filters located closer to the ground might need changing more frequently than those higher up.
3. Professionally Service Your HVAC System
A professional HVAC service involves cleaning internal parts, checking electronics, and ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely. This is crucial, especially for gas furnaces, to prevent dangerous issues like carbon monoxide leaks. Pay attention to any unusual noises or changes in performance and schedule a service if needed.
4. Have Your Chimney(s) Professionally Swept
If you use your fireplace frequently, it’s important to have your chimney swept regularly. Creosote, a tar-like substance from burning wood, builds up in the chimney and is highly flammable. Check for black tar or creosote buildup and plan a professional cleaning to avoid chimney fires.
5. Drain Outdoor Plumbing and Winterize Sprinkler Systems
Trapped water in outdoor pipes can expand and cause damage when it freezes. Remove hoses, drain spigots, and shut off outdoor plumbing where applicable. For sprinkler systems, consider hiring a professional to ensure proper winterization.
6. Check Attic Venting
Proper attic venting prevents ice dams, which can occur when snow and ice freeze at the roof’s edge and block water from draining. Inspect your attic for insulation obstructing soffit vents and remove it to allow proper airflow. Also, watch for any snow and ice accumulation at the roof’s bottom edges.
7. Inspect Your Roof
Regular roof inspections are key to catching potential issues before they become big problems. Look for missing or damaged shingles, damaged flashing around roof penetrations, and any signs of leaking in the attic. Ensure valleys are free of debris to avoid water damage.
8. Check Safety Devices and Replace Batteries
Fall is a great time to ensure all your safety devices are in working order. Replace batteries in smoke detectors, carbon monoxide sensors, and fire extinguishers. Smoke detectors should be in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level of the home. Carbon monoxide detectors should be placed on every level, near bedrooms, and in proximity to attached garages.
9. Check the Exterior of Your Home
Inspect your home’s exterior for any issues. Make sure siding is securely attached, add paint to any unprotected areas, and apply caulk where gaps have developed. This will help protect your home from harsh winter weather.
10. Prep Your Lawn and Exterior
Finally, get your lawn and exterior ready for winter. Rake leaves, trim bushes away from the home, and prepare your landscaping. This will not only keep your yard looking tidy but also help prevent winter damage.
By taking these steps, you’ll ensure your home is prepared for the colder months ahead. Happy fall, and here’s to a cozy and safe winter!