As summer winds down and fall approaches, it’s time to prepare your home for fall and winter. It may seem like a lot of labour, but a few simple maintenance activities may save you time, money, and frustration. Careful house maintenance extends its lifespan and promotes sustainability.
Before fall arrives, complete these 9 activities to prepare your home for the season.
1. Tune Up Your HVAC System
After working hard to keep you cool throughout the summer, your HVAC system needs a little attention before the chilly weather sets in. Hot temperatures can take a toll on your unit, so it’s crucial to give it a thorough inspection. While you can perform a few tasks yourself—like changing the air filters, cleaning supply and return registers, and cleaning the outdoor unit—it’s wise to call in a professional for a full servicing. A well-maintained HVAC system is more energy-efficient and better prepared for the demands of the colder months ahead.
Tip: Clean your air ducts as well. This can improve air quality, increase efficiency, and reduce the load on your HVAC system.
2. Check and Upgrade Your Insulation
Good insulation may cut heating and cooling expenditures by 15%. Given growing energy expenses, insulating your house is smart. Check your insulation, especially in the attic, basement and roof, for damage. Before the winter season arrives, add or enhance your home’s insulation.
Tip: Pay attention to the areas often overlooked, like around windows, doors, and exterior walls. Improving insulation here can prevent drafts and reduce heating costs.
3. Clean Your Gutters and Inspect Your Roof
Before the rain starts pouring down, take the time to clean out your gutters and inspect your roof. This simple task can prevent water damage and costly repairs in the future. Blocked gutters can cause water to back up and leak into your home, potentially damaging your foundation. While you can perform a basic inspection from the ground, it’s often best to hire a professional to clean your gutters, especially if your roof is high or difficult to reach.
Tip: If you have trees near your house, consider trimming them back. This reduces the chances of leaves and branches clogging the gutters.
4. Look for Air Leaks
Air leaks might hinder autumn and winter house heating. They raise energy expenses by letting warm air escape and cold air in. Check window and door frames, electrical service entrances, and baseboards as you go around your home. Small gaps can matter. Seal these leaks using weatherstripping, caulk, or draft excluders to save energy.
Tip: Consider using a smoke pencil or incense stick near suspected leaks. The smoke will help you see where the drafts are coming from.
5. Inspect Your Plumbing System
Your plumbing system is especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures during the colder months. Use the mild weather to check for any signs of leaks, cracks, or wear and tear in your pipes. Pay close attention to outdoor faucets, water lines, and drain connections. If you notice anything unusual, it’s important to have it repaired before winter to avoid costly damage.
Tip: Don’t forget to shut off outdoor faucets and drain any hoses to prevent freezing.
6. Test Your Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, it’s vital to ensure it’s functioning properly before the wet months arrive. A working sump pump helps prevent water damage in your basement by removing excess water. Test the pump to make sure it’s in good working condition, and clean out any debris that could cause blockages. If your pump is old or unreliable, consider replacing it before the rains come.
Tip: Check the discharge pipe to ensure it’s not blocked and is directing water away from your foundation.
7. Check Your Water Heater
Your water heater works hard year-round, and it’s easy to overlook it until something goes wrong. Before the colder months hit, perform a visual inspection of your water heater to check for signs of leaks or corrosion. If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace it to avoid a sudden breakdown. Also, flush the tank to remove any sediment buildup that could impact its efficiency.
Tip: Insulating your water heater and pipes can improve efficiency and prevent energy loss.
8. Prep Your Landscaping for Fall and Winter
Your home’s exterior requires care. Prepare your landscaping for autumn to safeguard your property from the cold. Start by cutting dead or sagging tree limbs that might be dangerous in wind or snow. Fertilise your plants for winter survival. Regrade your yard to slope away from your home if water pools near your foundation. This prevents leaks and water damage.
Tip: Remove any dead plants and annuals to reduce clutter and make your garden more functional.
9. Declutter and Organize
Finally, before fall fully sets in, take some time to declutter and organize your home. A tidy home is not only more pleasant to live in but also easier to maintain. Focus on areas like closets, storage spaces, and your garage to ensure everything is in its place. A clean and organized space also helps to keep pests at bay, which is particularly important as the colder weather drives them inside.
Tip: Use the change of seasons as an opportunity to donate items you no longer need. It’s a great way to simplify and make space for new seasonal essentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What maintenance tasks should I focus on first?
Start with your HVAC system and insulation. These will help with energy efficiency during colder months.
How can I check for air leaks in my home?
Inspect windows, doors, and baseboards for gaps. You can use a smoke pencil or incense to detect drafts.
Why should I clean my gutters before fall?
Cleaning your gutters prevents water damage by allowing rainwater to flow freely, protecting your roof and foundation.
When should I shut off outdoor faucets?
Before the weather drops below freezing, shut off outdoor faucets and drain hoses to avoid freezing pipes.