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8 Essential Home Maintenance Items For The Fall Season
As the crisp fall air settles in and days grow shorter, it's time for cozy moments, pumpkin lattes, and sweater weather—or at least that's what they say in parts that get cold. For us Floridians, fall decorating begins when the temps dip below "Donte's Inferno" levels. But even without the chill, it's still important to prep your home for the cooler months ahead!
At the Bobby Johnson Team, we understand how much your home means to you. That's why we've put together a checklist of 8 essential fall home maintenance items to help ensure your home stays warm, safe, and comfortable through the cooler months.
1. Check window & door seals
Sealing leaky windows and doors with self-adhesive weatherstripping can help keep warm air inside during colder months. Installing a door sweep can also prevent drafts from entering through the gap between the door and the threshold.
2. Check your roof
You should inspect your roof every three to four years or after severe weather to catch potential problems like missing shingles or loose seams, according to Forbes and Angi. Early detection allows for timely repairs before winter, helping prevent leaks and further damage.
3. Clean gutters & downspouts
Regular cleaning of gutters and downspouts helps prevent water damage by removing clogs, and debris, and reducing the risk of ice dams, according to a local gutter company tech.
4. Check smoke alarms & carbon monoxide detectors
Fall is a good time to check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends testing smoke detectors monthly, replacing batteries annually, and replacing detectors that are over 10 years old.
5. Drain your water heater
People often overlook their water heaters until there's an issue, but draining them yearly helps remove sediment and improve efficiency. Follow your manufacturer's instructions or hire a professional for this maintenance task.
6. Lubricate garage doors
Garage doors should be lubricated periodically, but avoid using silicone, grease, or WD40, as these can cause more harm. Opt for a proper garage door lubricant to ensure smooth operation and prevent damage. Always go by the manufacturer's guide or consult with a garage door professional.
7. Inspect and clean your fireplace & chimney
Before using your fireplace, the NFPA recommends having a professional clean and inspect your chimney. Even gas fireplaces need inspections to check for blockages, gas line leaks, and vent issues, says the CSIA.
8. Check your air and water filters
Dirty filters can cause furnaces, vacuums, air purifiers, and other appliances to not run efficiently. Here are some common appliances that may need a replacement filter:
- Furnace filters
- Vacuum cleaners
- Refrigerator water filters
- Dishwasher filters
- Air purifiers and humidifiers
- Clothing dryers (filter and duct)
- Range hoods and over-the-range microwaves
We hope you find this helpful. Be sure to always read the manufacturer's instructions or consult with a home maintenance professional. If you need a recommendation, give us a call!
