Fall is in the air, and it’s time to get your home ready for the cooler months ahead. With leaves, rain, and cooler temperatures, it’s time to make the rounds to ensure your home’s interior and exterior will hold up throughout the season.
This comprehensive fall maintenance checklist will help protect your investment, improve energy efficiency, and ensure your family’s comfort throughout the season.
Why Fall Home Maintenance Matters
Regular seasonal maintenance is crucial for several reasons:
- Prevent costly repairs by catching small issues before they become major problems
- Improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs during the winter months
- Extend the lifespan of your home’s systems and components
- Maintain your home’s value and curb appeal
- Ensure safety and comfort for you and your family during the colder months
Your home is one of your most valuable assets. It requires routine maintenance to avoid more extensive (and costly) issues from coming up later.
Interior Fall Home Maintenance Tasks
Replace batteries in all smoke/carbon monoxide detectors.
- Test all detectors monthly and replace batteries at least once a year
- Replace detectors that are more than 10 years old
- Install detectors on every level of your home and in each bedroom
Schedule a professional furnace inspection.
- Book your appointment early, before the rush of cold weather
- Have a licensed HVAC professional check for gas leaks, proper ventilation, and system efficiency
- This annual service can prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your furnace
Replace or clean furnace filters.
- Standard furnace filters should be replaced every 90 days (more frequently if you have pets or allergies)
- Mark your calendar for regular replacements throughout the heating season
- Consider upgrading to high-efficiency filters for better air quality
Check and clean air ducts and vents.
- Remove dust and debris from supply and return vents
- Ensure furniture and curtains aren’t blocking airflow
- Consider professional duct cleaning if it’s been several years
Test programmable thermostat.
- Replace batteries if needed
- Program for energy-efficient heating schedules
- Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and savings
Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and filter.
- Clean grease filters every 2-3 months (monthly for heavy cooking)
- Check that the exhaust fan is working properly
- Check out this blog post about the three types of kitchen range hoods to learn more about the purpose of kitchen exhaust vents and where to locate them.
Maintain the garbage disposal.
- Clean with ice cubes, baking soda, and citrus peels
- Run cold water while using and for 30 seconds after
- Never put grease, bones, or fibrous materials down the disposal
Service major appliances.
- Clean refrigerator coils to improve efficiency
- Check dishwasher seals and clean filters
- Inspect washing machine hoses for wear or bulges
Test home security systems.
- Check all entry sensors, motion detectors, and cameras
- Update access codes if needed
- Ensure backup batteries are functioning
Clean the dryer exhaust vent.
- Unplug the dryer, pull it away from the wall, and disconnect the duct from the dryer
- Vacuum lint from the duct annually (you can tell if this task is overdue if it takes longer than usual to dry your clothes)
- Clean the lint screen after every load
- Check the exterior vent for blockages
- This prevents fire hazards and improves efficiency
Inspect the water heater.
- Check the temperature setting
- Look for signs of corrosion or leaks
- Test the pressure relief valve
Maintain ceiling fans.
- Switch fans to rotate clockwise to push warm air down
- Clean blades and check for wobbling
- Tighten any loose screws or connections
Run water and flush toilets in unused spaces.
Now that the kids are back at college or your summer house guests are gone, keep those unused bathrooms in rotation.
- Run water and flush toilets in unused spaces
- Look for leaks under sinks and around toilets
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas to prevent freezing
Oil garage door tracks.
- Lubricate garage doors with a silicone spray or lithium-based grease and wipe away any excess with a rag
- If your garage door is loud and squeaky, you may be overdue for maintenance
Check the crawl space.
- Look for signs of moisture, mold, or pest intrusion
- Check insulation and vapor barriers
- Ensure proper ventilation
Exterior Fall Home Maintenance Tasks
Inspect your roof.
- Look for missing, damaged, or loose shingles
- Check for moss growth and clear debris
- Examine flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- Address any issues before the rain and winter weather arrive
Clean and maintain gutters and downspouts.
- Remove all leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
- Check for proper slope and secure mounting
- Repair any leaks or damaged sections
Examine weather stripping around doors and windows.
- Check all doors and windows for gaps or damaged sealing
- Replace worn weather stripping to improve energy efficiency
- Caulk any cracks around window and door frames
- Don’t forget basement and attic access points
Cover or store outdoor furniture.
- Your outdoor furniture costs as much as your indoor furniture, so don’t leave it out in the rain to soak
- Clean and store patio furniture, umbrellas, and cushions
- Bring your outdoor furniture inside to avoid mildew and discoloration of the cushions from the rain
Prepare outdoor lighting.
- Check that your porch, landscaping, exterior, and flood lights are working correctly
- Replace burned-out bulbs with outdoor-rated replacements
- Clean fixture lenses for better illumination
- Consider adding landscape lighting for shorter days
- Check motion sensors and timers for proper operation
Turn off outdoor water faucets; drain & store garden hoses.
- Detach your garden hose at the end of the season
- Close the shut-off valve
- Drain the fixture before it freezes
- (Don’t forget: “Righty-tighty, lefty-loosey”)
Prepare garden areas.
- Harvest remaining vegetables and fruits
- Mulch flower beds to protect plants
- Turn off and drain garden irrigation systems
- Clean and store garden tools properly
Winterize outdoor water systems.
- Turn off outdoor water faucets and drain completely
- Disconnect, drain, and store garden hoses indoors
- Shut off and drain irrigation systems to prevent freeze damage
- Insulate outdoor pipes if needed
Inspect and clean the chimney.
- Have a professional chimney sweep remove creosote buildup
- Check the chimney cap and screen for damage
- Inspect the damper for proper operation
- Ensure the fireplace screen is in good condition
Remove debris from exhaust ducts.
- Check outside vents near the foundation or up on the roof for birds’ nests
- Cut back any nearby trees or bushes
Clear out debris from storm drains.
- Clear fallen leaves and trash from storm drains
- Check for any standing water or slow-draining water
- Ensure proper grading around your foundation
- Clean window wells
- Check that downspouts direct water away from the foundation
Manage trees and vegetation
- Trim branches at least 6 feet away from your home to avoid pests and water damage
- Remove dead or diseased branches that could fall
- Rake leaves regularly to prevent lawn damage
Prepare your home for Fall
Make time to ensure the interior and exterior of your home are ready for the changing weather as the fall season kicks in. Divide your home maintenance tasks by season to check off these essential items from your honey-do list. If you’re short on time or uncomfortable with certain tasks, don’t hesitate to hire qualified professionals who specialize in these routine maintenance tasks. The cost of professional service is often much less than the expense of emergency repairs during winter.
Regular maintenance is an important aspect of homeownership, and the key to a comfortable, clean, efficient, and valuable home. Make the time and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve prepared properly for the season ahead.
