Fall is an important season for homeowners, as it’s the ideal time for completing any necessary home maintenance tasks before the cold winter months arrive. Performing seasonal home maintenance helps prevent bigger issues down the road and keeps your home comfortable and safe all year long.
We’ve compiled a list of essential fall home maintenance tasks to make sure your home is up to snuff for the colder months ahead. Since some of these tasks may require professional help, be sure to consider any necessary lead times to plan accordingly.
By taking the proper precautions and completing the necessary home maintenance tasks this fall, you can make sure your home stays in prime condition.
Clean Out Gutters & Downspouts
Gutters are an important part of the home that are easy to forget. Inclement weather like rain, snow, and hail can wreak havoc on your gutters and downspouts, so it’s important to inspect and clean them on a regular basis. Clearing out debris such as leaves, dirt, and sticks can help prevent water from pooling around the foundation of your home.
Replace Air Filters
Air filters in your HVAC system should be checked and changed every 1-3 months depending on the type of filter. This is essential for keeping your home’s air quality up and your HVAC system running efficiently during the cold winter months. Lower air flow rates make it harder for your system to adequately heat your home and can ultimately rack up costly energy bills.
Be sure to purchase an air filter of the correct size, shape, and MERV rating for your specific furnace, as the wrong filter can damage your HVAC system and reduce its energy efficiency.
If you’re unsure which filter is right for your system, your local home improvement store can help or contact your HVAC technician for further assistance.
Check Windows & Exterior Doors
Obvious cracks, breaks, and openings in your windows and exterior doors are a sure sign of insufficient insulation. Not only can these issues lead to higher energy bills, but unchecked drafty windows can put your home’s security at risk. Check for cracks and holes around window and door seals, and if you’re concerned about air or water infiltration, call a professional.
Common Fall Home Maintenance Tasks
- Inspect roofs, chimneys, and siding
- Clean dead leaves and debris from around the home
- Check basement and attic insulation
- Check caulk around bathtub and sinks
- Check outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems
- Check for any cracks or damage in walkways or driveways
Conclusion
By setting aside a bit of time for seasonal home maintenance, you can stay ahead of any potential issues and save yourself time and money down the line. Avoid major damage and costly repairs by completing your fall home checklist today.