As the weather starts to cool down, it’s a good time to take a look around your home and make sure everything is ready for the colder months ahead. But while some tasks are easy to remember, some essential ones often get overlooked. So here’s a checklist to help you prep your home for fall.
1. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Take a close look around your home’s exterior, focusing on areas like windows, doors and your foundation.
Over time, small gaps and cracks can form, letting in cold air and pests as the weather cools. For this reason, fall is the perfect time to grab some caulk or weatherstripping and seal these areas.
Not only will this keep your home warm, it’ll also help lower your energy bills, saving you money throughout the colder months.
2. Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Don’t wait until winter to discover roof issues! Fall is the time when leaves can accumulate in gutters, leading to clogs and potential water damage. To avoid these costly problems, clear out leaves, and check for any loose or damaged shingles.
Also, inspect gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. If anything looks off, address it before the first frost.
Tackling repairs now is much easier and more cost-effective than dealing with leaks or ice buildup when temperatures drop.
3. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Most people don’t know that many ceiling fans can rotate in reverse, though not all models have this feature.
To check if yours does, look for a small switch on the base of the fan motor. In the cooler months, setting your fan to spin clockwise pushes warm air down from the ceiling, helping to heat rooms more efficiently.
This simple trick can make a noticeable difference in your heating bill. So, after cleaning off any dust, flip the switch and enjoy the extra warmth without cranking up the thermostat.
4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As you start using your heating system and maybe even your fireplace more often, now’s the time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Make sure they’re working and replace the batteries if needed. These small devices are your first line of defense against unseen dangers.
5. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Store Hoses
Frozen pipes can cause major damage, often starting with the outdoor faucets.
When temperatures drop, any water left in hoses or pipes can freeze, expand and eventually cause pipes to burst. To avoid this, drain and disconnect your garden hoses before the cold sets in, and store them away.
It’s also smart to shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets if possible and invest in faucet covers for extra insulation. Don’t forget to check indoor pipes in unheated areas like basements or garages. Wrapping these in insulation can also help prevent freezing.
6. Check Chimneys and Fireplaces
If you have a fireplace, whether gas or wood-burning, it’s smart to have your chimney cleaned and inspected each fall.
Creosote can build up in wood-burning fireplaces and create a fire hazard, while gas fireplaces should be checked for any venting or safety issues. A little preventive maintenance will make sure your fireplace is safe and ready for use when the cold weather hits.
7. Change Furnace Filters and Schedule Maintenance
Don’t wait until freezing temperatures hit to discover your furnace isn’t working properly. Start by changing the air filter—a simple task that not only improves air quality but also helps your system run more efficiently.
Dirty filters force your furnace to work harder, which can increase energy costs and wear it out faster.
It’s also wise to schedule a professional inspection before your furnace is under heavy use. A technician can check for potential issues like worn parts, carbon monoxide leaks or thermostat malfunctions. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your furnace and help you avoid costly breakdowns in the middle of winter.
Final Word
Taking these steps may help you avoid expensive repairs and keep your home comfortable all winter long. If you’re thinking about home improvements or need financing for unexpected repairs, contact FirstBank Mortgage to explore refinancing options and see how our mortgage solutions can help support your home’s upkeep.
