🍂Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Fall maintenance is really winter prep. Everything on this list is about preventing the expensive problems that show up in January when it's 10 degrees out and every contractor in town is booked for 3 weeks.
16 tasks across 4 categories
Heating
Schedule a furnace tune-up
Do this in September or early October before the rush. A technician checks the heat exchanger, burners, and safety controls. A cracked heat exchanger leaks carbon monoxide... not something to skip.
Furnace Replacement Guide→Replace the furnace filter
Start the heating season with a fresh filter. Set a reminder to check it monthly through winter.
HVAC Air Filter Guide→Test the thermostat in heat mode
Switch to heat and make sure warm air comes from the vents within a few minutes. If you have a smart thermostat, update the schedule for shorter days.
Thermostat Replacement Guide→Bleed radiators if you have hot water heat
Air trapped in radiators prevents them from heating fully. Use a radiator key to release trapped air until water starts flowing out.
Boiler Replacement Guide→Check the chimney and fireplace
If you burn wood, get the chimney swept before the first fire of the season. Creosote buildup is a chimney fire waiting to happen.
Chimney Sweep Costs→Exterior & Weatherproofing
Clean gutters after the leaves fall
Wait until most leaves are down, then do a thorough cleaning. Clogged gutters cause ice dams, which cause roof leaks and fascia damage.
Gutter Replacement Guide→Inspect the roof before winter
This is your last chance to fix problems before ice and snow make everything worse. Look for loose flashing, damaged shingles, and gaps around vents.
Roof Replacement Guide→Caulk and seal around windows and doors
Check the caulk around every window and door frame. Cracked or missing caulk means cold drafts and higher heating bills all winter.
Window Replacement Guide→Check weather stripping on exterior doors
Close the door on a piece of paper. If you can pull it out easily, the weather stripping needs replacing. It's a $10 fix that saves real money on heating.
Weather Stripping Guide→Inspect exterior paint and touch up
Bare wood exposed to winter moisture rots fast. Touch up any peeling or chipped spots before the first freeze.
Exterior Paint Guide→Plumbing & Water
Shut off and drain outdoor faucets
Turn off the interior shut-off valve for each hose bib, then open the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water. Frozen pipes burst and cause thousands in damage.
Hose Bib Guide→Insulate exposed pipes
Wrap foam insulation around any pipes in unheated spaces... crawlspaces, garages, and along exterior walls. Pipe insulation costs $1-$3 per foot and takes minutes.
Plumber Costs→Drain the water heater
Flush 2-3 gallons from the drain valve to clear sediment buildup. This extends the tank's life and improves heating efficiency.
Water Heater Guide→Winterize sprinkler system
Blow out the lines with compressed air to prevent frozen and cracked pipes underground. Most irrigation companies offer this as a fall service.
Sprinkler System Guide→Safety
Test smoke and CO detectors
Change batteries when you change the clocks. With the furnace running and windows sealed, CO detection is critical.
Smoke Detector Guide→Check the fire extinguisher
Make sure it's accessible and the gauge reads full. With holiday cooking and space heaters coming, you want this ready.
Fire Extinguisher Guide→Other Seasons
Adjust this checklist for your climate and home type. Not every task applies to every home.