11 Essential Fall Home Maintenance Tips

Fall is more than pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters—it’s also the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Taking a few preventative steps now can protect your home, save money on energy bills, and give you peace of mind once winter arrives.

Here are 11 things to do around the house this fall:

1. Service your furnace or HVAC system 

   A professional tune-up ensures your system is working efficiently before the first cold snap. Don’t forget to swap out your furnace filters too!

   
   

2. Check on your sump pump

   As we head into rainy season, sump pumps start working overtime. Give yours a quick test now so you’re not caught off guard later. If you don’t already have one, installing a battery backup or water sensor is worth considering for extra peace of mind.

   
   

3. Clean your gutters & downspouts 

   Falling leaves can quickly clog gutters, leading to water damage. Clearing them now prevents headaches later.

   
   

4. Check windows & doors for drafts 

   Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps. Your energy bill will thank you.

   
   

5. Prepare outdoor faucets, sprinkler systems & hoses 

   Drain hoses, winterize your sprinkler system, shut off outdoor faucets, and cover spigots to prevent frozen pipes.

   
   

6. Inspect your roof 

   Look for missing shingles or damage that could lead to leaks when snow and ice hit.

   
   

7. Lawn & landscaping prep

   Clean up leaves, fertilize, aerate, and trim back trees or branches that could fall on your home in a storm. Not only does it look nice, but it prevents slippery walkways and lawn damage.

   
   

8. Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors 

   Cooler weather means more time indoors, often with fireplaces or furnaces running. Safety first!

   
   

9. Check your chimney & fireplace 

   If you use them, get them inspected and cleaned before lighting that first cozy fire.

   
   

10. Stock up on winter essentials 

    Salt for sidewalks, extra blankets, and even a stash of hot cocoa don’t hurt.

    
    

11. Reverse ceiling fans 

    Switching them to clockwise pushes warm air down, helping with energy efficiency.

You'll thank yourself!

Doing these simple things now means you can enjoy all the best parts of fall—apple cider, football games, and cozy nights in—without worrying about home issues when the snow starts to fly. If you are a new homeowner and have questions on how to do any of these items, feel free to reach out!