Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Winter Prep

As the crisp air of fall settles in, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. A little preventive maintenance now can help protect your investment, improve efficiency, and give you peace of mind all winter long. Click here to download the PDF version!

Outdoor Maintenance

• Clean gutters & downspouts: Remove leaves, twigs, and debris. Flush with a hose to prevent clogs and ice dams. Ensure downspouts direct water at least 3–4 feet away from the foundation.
• Inspect the roof: Look for missing, curled, or damaged shingles; check flashing and seal around chimneys, skylights, and vents.
• Check siding & exterior paint: Touch up peeling or cracking paint; inspect for signs of pests or rot.
• Trim trees & shrubs: Keep branches away from roof, siding, and power lines to prevent storm damage.
• Rack leaves: Keep the lawn looking great by removing any leaves
• Shut off & drain outdoor faucets: Disconnect hoses, shut off exterior valves, and drain lines to prevent frozen pipes.
• Store outdoor furniture & equipment: Clean and cover patio sets, grills, and garden tools. Store in a shed or garage.
• Inspect driveways & walkways: Repair cracks before freeze-thaw cycles cause further damage.
• Check exterior lighting: Replace bulbs, clean fixtures, and consider motion-sensor lights for darker evenings.

Heating & HVAC

• Furnace inspection & tune-up: Schedule a professional service before heavy use.
• Replace furnace filter: Improves air quality and efficiency (change every 1–3 months).
• Check thermostat: Test for proper function and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat.
• Inspect vents & ducts: Vacuum registers, ensure airflow isn’t blocked, and consider duct cleaning if it’s been years.
• Test carbon monoxide detectors: Replace batteries and confirm units aren’t expired.

Plumbing & Water Systems

• Insulate exposed pipes: Especially in basements, crawlspaces, or near exterior walls to prevent freezing.
• Check sump pump: Test operation and clean pit to ensure it’s ready for heavy rains.
• Flush water heater: Remove sediment buildup to improve efficiency and lifespan.
• Check for leaks: Inspect under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters.

Interior Maintenance

• Test smoke detectors: Replace batteries and units older than 10 years.
• Inspect windows & doors: Check seals, weatherstripping, and caulking. Replace or repair as needed to prevent drafts.
• Wash window & doors: helps more light come through during the darker months.
• Reverse ceiling fans: Switch to clockwise rotation to push warm air down.
• Deep clean carpets & upholstery: Helps reduce allergens before winter.
• Inspect attic & basement: Look for signs of moisture, pests, or insulation gaps.

Winter Prep

• Stock up on supplies: Salt, ice melt, snow shovels, or a snow blower tune-up.
• Check emergency kit: Flashlights, batteries, bottled water, blankets, and first-aid supplies.
• Seal air leaks: Use weatherstripping or caulk on drafty areas.
• Inspect fireplace & chimney: Have professionally cleaned if you use it regularly.

General Clean-Up

• Clean dryer vents: Remove lint buildup to prevent fire hazards.
• Vacuum refrigerator coils: Improves energy efficiency.
• Declutter storage areas: Organize garage, attic, or basement before winter.
• Check safety equipment: Fire extinguishers should be charged and accessible.