With fall upon us, it’s time to prepare our homes for the impending colder weather. Taking care of essential maintenance tasks now can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure your home is ready for the fall and winter seasons:
Tasks You Can Complete in an Hour or Less
- Stock Up on Winter Supplies:
- Ensure you have snow shovels, ice scrapers, and car emergency kits ready. Check your generator’s fuel levels and restock as needed.
- Protect Your Pipes:
- Prevent frozen pipes by storing hoses indoors, draining outdoor pipes, and insulating exposed outdoor pipes and faucets. Know the location of your water shut-off valve in case of emergencies.
- Check Walkways and Outdoor Lighting:
- Inspect stairs and railings for loose components, clear pathways of leaves and debris, and test outdoor lights. Consider using timers for added convenience.
- Test Safety Devices:
- Regularly test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries as needed to ensure they’re functioning correctly.
- Prepare Heating Systems:
- Vacuum radiators and baseboard heaters, clean light fixtures, and set your heater on a preprogrammed schedule for a seamless transition from cooling to heating.
- Remove Window AC Units:
- Store window air conditioning units properly for the cooler months or insulate the exterior to keep cold air out.
Tasks to Tackle Over the Weekend
- Rake Leaves:
- Regularly collect fallen leaves to avoid inhibiting spring growth. Turn leaf-raking into a family event and reward yourselves afterward.
- Seal Gaps Against Critters:
- Prevent small critters from entering your home by filling small holes and repairing large gaps securely.
- Tree and Shrub Care:
- Hire an arborist to maintain large trees and prevent tree loss during winter storms.
- Deep Clean the Kitchen:
- Prepare for holiday cooking by deep cleaning your kitchen, including degreasing the range hood, cleaning the oven and dishwasher, and vacuuming refrigerator coils.
- Deep Clean Your Washer and Dryer:
- Ensure cleaner appliances by following a guide for deep cleaning your washer and dryer.
Maintenance and Extras to Budget for This Season
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts:
- Prevent roof and siding damage by cleaning gutters and downspouts as autumn leaves fall. Consider professional help if needed.
- Schedule Chimney Cleaning:
- Ensure safety with wood-burning fireplaces and stoves by scheduling a chimney cleaning. Gas fireplaces should also be inspected for blockages.
- HVAC Maintenance:
- Schedule maintenance for your heating system and replace furnace filters if needed. Check with your furnace manufacturer for specific requirements.
- Exterior Repairs:
- Address roof, siding, and foundation damage promptly to button up your home for winter.
