Autumn Home Maintenance Checklist
Autumn is here! And while we’re looking forward to the vibrant reds, golds, and oranges of our Aspen trees, we also have to prepare our homes for the cold days ahead. There are certain Autumn maintenance tasks you should consider checking off while the weather is favorable.
Denver is experiencing a cold October, with snow already making an appearance. October temperatures in the region will have highs around 65 degrees and lows around 36 degrees.
During this time of the year, we should take advantage of the mild weather to make the necessary preparations for winter. If you want to keep the home warm and cozy for everyone (including your pets), take the time to tackle some indoor and outdoor fall maintenance chores.
Here’s your autumn maintenance checklist to make sure everything is safe, comfortable, and efficient:
Outdoor Autumn Maintenance
1. Lawn Equipment
When the summer ends, it’s time to store your lawn equipment. But before you do, make sure everything is properly stored. Empty out unused fuel from lawnmowers and gas-powered equipment to prevent sediment buildup.
Store any gasoline in approved containers out of reach of children and far away from open flames and ignition sources. Keep them easily accessible for use in snow blowers and emergency generators.
2. Gutters
Prevent gutter buildup and water damage by cleaning your gutters at least once a year. Fall is the perfect time to keep snow and ice from forming ice dams and causing roof and siding damage. Remember to practice ladder safety, or just hire a professional.
3. Roof
Once or twice a year, inspect your roof for damage, such as sagging, missing shingles, rot, moss/algae, and aging. Take note of the areas that need a closer inspection. Hire a professional for periodic roof inspections, especially after a major weather event.
4. Rake
Leaves can kill your grass if left out on the lawn. Rake leaves and other yard debris into piles and scoop them in yard waste bags. Do NOT burn your leaves!
5. Winterize Outdoor Faucets
Disconnect all hoses from any outdoor faucets and store them for winter. Locate the outdoor faucet’s indoor shut-off valve and turn it off completely. Next, go back outside and turn on all faucets to drain them of water completely. Leave the faucet turned on for winter. For added protection, you can use an insulated faucet cover.
You may also want to add pipe insulation sleeves to your indoor pipes to insulate hot water lines and help prevent pipes from freezing.
Indoor Autumn Maintenance
1. Windows and Doors
2. Thermostat
If you don’t have a programmable or smart thermostat, consider investing in one. They allow you to save energy and money while staying conveniently comfortable. Learn how to save with your thermostat.
3. Smoke and CO Detectors
Daylight saving time is a great reminder to replace your smoke and CO detector batteries. Make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home and outside each sleeping area. Test them every 30 days and replace them after 10 years.
4. Heating and Fireplace Safety
Schedule professional furnace and fireplace cleaning and maintenance every year, preferably in the fall. Always hire a qualified professional to do any work on heating equipment.
Store dry firewood at least 15 feet away from the home. Large amounts of wood near the home can attract
5. Repair or Replace Heating System?
If you are facing a major furnace or heating system repair that costs over 15% of the price of a new system, consider replacing it with a new, energy-efficient model. Speak with a professional about whether you are better off repairing or replacing your heating system.
By following this autumn home maintenance checklist, you can enjoy the beauty of fall and winter without worrying about safety and efficiency issues.
For more on fall HVAC maintenance, winterization, and furnace troubleshooting, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Fix-It 24/7. And don’t forget to schedule a furnace tune-up before winter!
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