When the leaves start to change, and there’s a chill in the air, you know it’s time for more than just pumpkin spice lattes and cozy hoodies – it’s time to start thinking about your fall home maintenance checklist.

Preparing your home now can prevent costly repairs and keep you cozy throughout the winter. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a newbie to maintaining your space, we’re going to walk you through three essential fall home maintenance tips to make sure your home is ready for the colder months ahead.

Tip #1: Check and Maintain Your Mechanicals

Let’s start by taking a look at the mechanical systems in your home, particularly your HVAC system.

Your heating and cooling systems will work overtime as temperatures drop, so it’s important to ensure everything is in tip-top shape before winter sets in.

HVAC Maintenance

If you have a central air conditioning unit, fall is the perfect time to get it covered up.

After a summer of keeping you cool, your AC unit deserves a little TLC. Covering it during the off-season will keep out leaves, dirt, and debris that can clog up the system and reduce its lifespan.

Change Your Furnace Filter

Now that you’re shifting to using your furnace, don’t forget to change the air filter. 

A clean filter helps your furnace run more efficiently, improves indoor air quality, and can even prevent a potential breakdown when you need heat the most. If you’re not already in the habit of changing it regularly, make it part of your fall home maintenance routine.

Pro Tip: Mark your calendar to check your furnace filter every three months to ensure it stays clean and keeps your home running smoothly.

Tip #2: Winterize Your Summer Toys

It’s time to say goodbye to your warm-weather hobbies and make sure everything is stored and protected until the next season.

Store Summer Equipment

For those with motorcycles, boats, or any summer equipment, take the time to winterize these items properly.

This might include draining fuel, covering your equipment, or storing batteries separately to avoid damage from freezing temperatures.

Prep Your Vehicle for Winter

While you’re at it, don’t forget to get your everyday vehicle ready for winter, too.

This means putting an ice scraper in your car, stocking up on windshield washer fluid rated for low temperatures, and ensuring your tires are ready for slick roads.

Pro Tip: Keep some salt or de-icer by your front door and in your car for those unexpected icy mornings.

Tip #3: Update Your Home's Insulation

One of the most effective fall home maintenance tips is to check your home’s insulation.

Proper insulation is essential for keeping the cold out and the warmth in, keeping you comfortable and saving you money on heating bills. Creating an air seal in your home with foam insulation will make it more comfortable and save you money in the long run with energy savings.

Why Insulate Now?

If you’ve been putting off getting new insulation or upgrading your existing setup, fall is the time to act.

As temperatures drop, your home’s insulation is your first line of defense against the chilly air creeping in. Proper insulation can help maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home, reducing drafts and creating a more energy-efficient space.

Schedule Early

This is also the time when contractors’ schedules start to fill up.

Everyone wants to get their home prepped before the first snowfall, so if you’re considering new insulation – especially in areas like your attic, crawl space, or exterior walls – don’t wait. Getting on a contractor’s schedule early will help you avoid delays and ensure your home is sealed tight before winter arrives.

If you’re ready to upgrade your insulation, head over to our Find a Dealer page to connect with a trusted professional in your area. They’ll help you determine the best type of insulation for your home, whether that’s spray foam, fiberglass, or a combination of materials.

The Bottom Line

Getting your home ready for fall doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Following this simple fall home maintenance checklist will prepare you for whatever weather comes your way. Take the time now to check your mechanical systems, winterize your summer toys, and update your home’s insulation – your future self will thank you.

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