Is your home ready for cooler weather?

Having a maintenance checklist can save you time and money when it comes to home repairs.

The average claim cost from a busted frozen pipe is $18,000! Preparing your home for cold temperatures can prevent this type of damage. Use our fall home maintenance checklist to save energy and money this season and prevent potentially costly damage.

1. Winterize Your Pipes

Winterizing the pipes should be at the top of your home maintenance schedule. Don’t wait until winter to take care of your pipes. The last thing you want is to have to deal with a frozen pipe later.

Turn off the water and drain all outdoor pipes like sprinkler systems and cover any outdoor faucets. While you’re prepping the pipes for cooler temperatures, you want to check for any leaks. If you find a leaky pipe, it’s time to call a professional to come in.

2. Clean the Gutters

With the falling temperatures come falling leaves. The influx of leaves can leave your gutters clogged. It’s important to check your gutters to make sure they are working properly. Clear any clogs and replace gutters if necessary.

3. Check the Fireplace

You haven’t used your fireplace in months. This is an important thing to check off your home maintenance list. Before you light a match, check to ensure that everything is clear. Check for any animals that may have decided to build a home within the fireplace.

You may want to call in a pro to sweep the chimney too.

4. Check the Heating System

Before you turn on the heat, you will want to check the heating system. You may want to call in a pro to come in a do a check on your heating system. They will make sure it’s working properly.

Change the filter on the furnace and be sure that the heating ducts are clear to prevent dust in the air. When filters aren’t changed regularly, your heating bills can skyrocket. Save yourself money by taking the time to change the filters.

If you use a propane heater, you want to make sure that you have plenty of propane. You can have a pro come and check your tank. Check out this site for more information regarding your propane tank.

5. Yardwork and Landscaping

Now’s a great time to prep your lawn. Fertilize and reseed the grass so that it turns green quicker in the spring. You also want to trim any tree limbs that are near power lines. As these limbs freeze, they become heavier and can fall onto power lines.

6. Check the Insulation

When you’re creating your fall maintenance schedule, be sure that you head to the attic and check the insulation. When your insulation works properly, your home will stay nice and cozy through the winter months.

You may want to hire an expert for this. If your insulation isn’t great, then you definitely want to get it taken care of before it gets too cold.

Make Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist Today

Getting your home ready for a new season is similar to when you first move into a new home. There are things you should do to make life as a homeowner easier.

When you check things off your fall home maintenance checklist, you prepare your home for the cooler months. Being proactive now can save you time and money down the road.

Are you looking to get your home ready to sell? Check out our advice for home sellers for tips and advice.