The return to school has begun, and the summer days are growing shorter. Fall is in the air, so it’s time for some chores around the house. Fall maintenance can help you reset after the summer and get your property prepped for the cold season. Some homeowners get overwhelmed with this maintenance and don’t know where to start. Maintaining your home is crucial to ensure it remains safe and operates smoothly.
Following a structured maintenance routine can streamline home improvement tasks and save time. Regular home maintenance also offers long-term financial benefits, helping you save money by preventing minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.
Please keep reading for our checklist guide on fall home maintenance tips to prepare your home for the end of the season.
Introduction to Fall Home Maintenance
As the summer months come to a close, it’s essential to prepare your home for the upcoming fall season. A well-maintained home can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your home remains in tip-top shape. Fall home maintenance is crucial in avoiding issues such as ice dams, water damage, and exterior repairs. By following a seasonal home maintenance checklist, you can identify and address potential problems before they become significant issues. Regular maintenance tasks, such as cleaning gutters and inspecting the roof, can help prevent further damage and save you money in the long run.
1. Take Out Your Window AC Units
At this point, the truly hot days are just about over. We may have a few sweaty moments left, but you shouldn’t need air conditioning anymore. It is essential to maintain your air conditioner by performing tasks such as regularly cleaning the air conditioner filter. Take your window air conditioning units out before the cold days arrive. Some homes have their units affixed to their windows—in this case, cover the unit and insulate your window.
2. Add Weatherstripping to Window and Door Frames
Windows and doorways are areas where significant amounts of warmth are lost from your home during the winter. Adding weatherstripping around your frames can help prevent heat loss and save you money on your energy bills. Also, please look over window screens for any rips or cracks before winter. Weatherstripping is a layer you can add around window and door frames to improve your insulation.
3. Change Your Air Filters
Proper airflow in your heating and cooling systems translates to an efficient and cost-effective home. Please help your system run efficiently by making sure your air filter is clean. Additionally, maintaining your water heater by flushing it annually helps ensure optimal performance and prolongs its lifespan. A clogged filter will slow the distribution of warm or cold air throughout your home. Please ensure that you change your filters approximately once a month, or at least once per season.
4. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Summer storms can roughen your gutters by dropping extra branches or debris that can clog them up. However, the leaves will drop when fall arrives, causing your gutters and downspouts to become completely clogged. If left untreated, water can pool and seep into your home, leading to serious issues. If you feel uncomfortable on a ladder, hire a professional to help you.
5. Examine Your Property for Exterior Problems
Now is a great time to walk around your home and garage and inspect what's happening. Inspect and maintain your home's exterior to prevent damage and enhance curb appeal. Look for any signs of damage to your roof, siding, or sealant around the base of your house. Inspect the grout and caulk for any touch-ups needed to prevent seepage and water damage. Be sure to note any issues and either address them yourself or hire a trusted professional to assist you in fixing any problems before the cold weather sets in.
Roof Maintenance
Roof maintenance is a critical aspect of fall home maintenance. Inspecting your roof for damaged shingles, missing granules, and signs of wear can help prevent water damage and ice dams. It’s essential to clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow and to avoid debris from accumulating. Consider hiring a professional to inspect and repair your roof, especially if you’re a new homeowner. Regular roof maintenance can help extend the life of your roof and prevent costly repairs. Don’t forget to inspect your roof’s ventilation system, including your dryer vent and other exhaust vents, to ensure they are working correctly.
Yard and Landscaping
Fall is the perfect season to maintain your yard and landscaping. Remove leaves and other debris from your lawn, garden beds, and sidewalks to prevent damage and maintain curb appeal. Consider using a pressure washer to clean your sidewalks, driveway, and exterior walls. Inspect your trees and shrubs for signs of disease or damage and prune them as needed. Don’t forget to replenish salt in your water softener and inspect your sump pump to ensure it’s working correctly. By maintaining your yard and landscaping, you can improve your home’s exterior and prevent costly repairs.
Safety and Security
Safety and security are essential aspects of home maintenance. Inspect your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms to ensure they are working correctly. Consider installing new batteries or replacing old detectors. Check your fire extinguishers to ensure they are fully charged and easily accessible. Inspect your doors and windows for signs of wear and damage, and consider replacing them if necessary. Don’t forget to inspect your HVAC system, including your air conditioning unit, to ensure it’s working efficiently. By prioritizing safety and security, you can help prevent accidents and ensure your home is safe and secure.
Pest Control and Prevention
Pest control and prevention are critical aspects of home maintenance. Inspect your home’s exterior for signs of pest infestation, including holes, gnaw marks, and droppings. Consider hiring a professional to inspect and treat your home for pests. Seal cracks and crevices around your home’s exterior, including windows and doors, to prevent pests from entering. Don’t forget to clean your garbage disposal and inspect your home’s ventilation system to prevent pest infestation. By prioritizing pest control and prevention, you can help avoid costly repairs and maintain a safe and healthy home. Regular maintenance tasks, such as deep cleaning and inspecting your home’s exterior, can help prevent pest infestation and ensure your home remains in tip-top shape.
Choose to Work with the Heating and Cooling Experts
Follow the guide above, and your home will be well on its way to being set up for winter. Having the necessary know-how for effective home maintenance is crucial, especially for new homeowners. Remember, you don’t have to do it all. For projects you aren’t uncomfortable tackling alone, turn to the professionals. Heaney Plumbing & Heating has been in the business for over 50 years! Our technicians can help diagnose and resolve heating, cooling, or plumbing issues.