Preparing your home for the colder months doesn’t just bring peace of mind; it can save you from costly winter repairs down the line. Our Fall Home Maintenance Checklist covers essential tasks to help safeguard your home, ensuring it's ready for cooler, wetter weather without the risk of expensive surprises. Get ahead of the season and protect your investment with these simple steps!

□ Check for Drafts

Move a lighted candle along the edges of windows, doors, and moldings; if the flame flickers,

there’s probably a draft. Mark the areas with painters’ tape and return to replace seals as

needed. On the outside of your home, inspect the siding and shingles for cracks and holes

and repair as necessary.

□ Check Home Safety Devices

Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, recharge fire extinguishers, and

test for radon.

□ Clean Gutters

Clear leaves, pine needles, and debris to prevent clogs and water damage.

□ Clean Humidifiers

Replace old filters. Soak interiors with undistilled white vinegar and scrub with a soft-bristle

brush.

□ Compost Autumn Leaves

Start your own compost pile with fall leaves and other garden debris. The best compost

contains two or three parts “brown,” or carbon-rich matter (leaves, pine needles, sawdust,

shredded newspaper), to one part “green,” or nitrogen-rich matter (grass clippings, vegetable

and fruit scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells). You can also contact your town hall to find out if

your area’s sanitation department collects leaves to compost.

□ Have Your Chimney Inspected and Cleaned by a Chimney Sweep

□ Have Your Furnace Inspected

Hire a professional to check for leaks, replace filters, and condition the system.

□ Reverse Ceiling Fans

Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise to help distribute warm air throughout the home.

□ Inspect Trees

Now that the branches are bare, check for limbs that interfere with power lines or come too close

to the roof to reduce the risk of damage during windier weather.

□ Order Firewood

□ Organize the Shed

Remove any liquids that will freeze in the winter, transfer fertilizer boxed in cardboard to metal or

plastic containers, and move snow- and ice-removal equipment to the front for easy access.

□ Prepare Flowers

Deadhead annuals and perennials regularly to groom and promote blooming.

□ Remove Window Air-Conditioning Units

Clean filters, and drain the units of water before storing them.

□ Service Sprinklers

Have your system drained and serviced by a professional

□ Turn Off Faucets and Roll Hoses; Store for the Season

Disconnect and drain hoses to prevent cracking. Store them in a dry location.

□ Disinfect Flowerpots

Soak in a solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water, scrub with a stiff brush, and dry

thoroughly before storing.

□ Fertilize the Lawn

Apply a fall fertilizer to strengthen the lawn’s root system for winter.

□ Plant Fall and Winter Plants

Add seasonal flowers or winter-hardy plants to maintain curb appeal through cooler months.

□ Rake Leaves and Mulch Flower Beds

Clean up fallen leaves and add mulch to protect plant roots and retain soil moisture.

□ Store Patio Furniture

Clean and store outdoor furniture to prolong its lifespan and prevent damage from rain.