As the vibrant colors of summer start to fade and a cool breeze signals the approach of fall, it’s time to shift our focus from beach days to cozy evenings indoors with some fall homeowner tips. Fall is a season of change, and this includes changes in your home’s maintenance needs. To ensure that your home remains comfortable and functional throughout the colder months, it’s essential to perform some key maintenance tasks. In this post, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare your home for fall.
1. Inspect and Clean Gutters
Before the leaves start to fall in earnest, take the time to inspect and clean your gutters. Remove any debris that might have accumulated over the summer, as clogged gutters can lead to water damage and potential leaks.
2. Check Your Heating System
As the temperatures drop, your heating system becomes a crucial component of your home. Schedule a professional inspection and servicing for your furnace or heating system today using the Elevate Customer app. This will ensure optimal performance and can help you identify any potential issues before they become major problems. If you have any questions about how to use the app, just check out this link here to see our blog post about the app and a quick 2 minute walk-through video.
3. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Prevent drafts and heat loss by inspecting your home for gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other openings. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal these gaps, helping to keep your home cozy and energy-efficient. You can check out these links on Amazon or Home Depot if you find some gaps you need to fill!
4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Fall is the perfect time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. It takes 2 seconds to press the test button, and if it needs new batteries, it’s better to find out now rather than waiting until your smoke detector wakes you up in the middle of the night to let you know that it needs new batteries. With windows and doors closed more often, it’s crucial to have these safety devices in top condition.
5. Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture
Before the harsher weather arrives, clean and store your outdoor furniture properly. This prevents damage and extends the lifespan of your furnishings. If storage space is limited, consider investing in weatherproof covers.
6. Service Your Fireplace and Chimney
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, autumn is the ideal time to have your chimney cleaned and inspected. A professional can remove built-up creosote and identify any structural issues, ensuring a safe and efficient fireplace throughout the colder months. We don’t currently service fireplaces or chimneys, but it’s a good idea to find a contractor to do this before you have a problem.
7. Inspect Your Roof
Check your roof for damaged or missing shingles. Fall is a great time to address any issues before winter weather makes repairs more challenging. A well-maintained roof is vital for keeping your home dry and cozy.
8. Clean Dryer Vents
This fall homeowner tip is one that you might not think of. Lint buildup in dryer vents not only reduces the efficiency of your dryer but also poses a fire hazard. Remove lint from the vent and the duct leading outside to ensure proper airflow. And if you don’t want to get your hands dirty, you can just quickly submit a service request and schedule a dryer vent cleaning through our app! Dryer vent cleaning is actually one of our most popular service requests, so try it out today! You can click this link right here if you want to request a dryer vent cleaning now.
9. Store Hoses and Winterize Sprinkler Systems
Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and store them in a dry place. Additionally, if you have an underground sprinkler system, make sure to drain the water to prevent freezing and potential damage.
10. Inspect Insulation
Check your home’s insulation, especially in attics and crawl spaces. Proper insulation helps retain heat and lower energy bills during the colder months. Replace or add insulation as needed.
Preparing your home for fall might require a bit of effort, but the benefits in terms of comfort, safety, and energy efficiency are well worth it. By following this comprehensive maintenance checklist, you’ll be ready to embrace the beauty and coziness of the season while ensuring your home remains a haven from the elements. If unexpected issues do arise, remember that having a reliable home warranty can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered in case of major system or appliance breakdowns. Stay proactive, stay cozy, and enjoy the delights that autumn brings.