Fall Home Maintenance That Can Save You Money Later

Sometimes, the best way to spend less money is to plan ahead. Instead of waiting for the middle of winter for something to break, get ahead of home and yard repairs right now! Read on for fall home maintenance must-dos that can save you money later. 

Heating System  

A functional heating system is critical to the health of your home in the winter months, and not only for reasons of comfort. When temperatures dip below freezing, a nonfunctional furnace could lead to a burst pipe—causing serious and expensive damage to your house. Therefore, fall is an important time to check that all is working as it should be. Depending on your heating system, this could mean changing a furnace’s air filter plus stocking up on air filters in case you need more during the winter; hiring an HVAC expert to conduct a tune-up; or draining a radiator system. It’s a good idea to clean and inspect heating vents at this time, too. 

Front and Back Yard  

In a winter storm, trees, large bushes and other debris can cause serious damage to your home or car. Don’t wait for the weather forecast to clean up outside! In autumn, aim to trim dead branches (hire an expert if necessary), prune bushes, and move gardening tools into a shed or basement. If storing a lawnmower or other gas-powered equipment, check safety information online or by calling the maker to understand how it should be stored over the winter months for maximum safety. 

Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors  

While it’s important to have reliable carbon monoxide and smoke detectors at every time of the year, winter is an especially critical time to ensure these devices are functional. Clean and test these devices according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure all detectors are in good working order—and if you don’t yet have a detector on every floor of your hope, prioritize this installation.  

Fireplaces  

Cozy nights by the fire are a delightful way to end wintry days—but without proper maintenance, a fireplace can introduce dirt and even danger into a home. A chimney sweep can do a full, professional inspection every year to ensure your fireplace is in good working order or recommend repairs, if needed. While gas fireplaces don’t gather debris, it’s still a good idea to clean and inspect your fireplace each year, as per the unit’s maintenance instructions.  

Gutters  

Depending on the number of trees around your house, you’ll likely need to clean your gutters a few times during fall. Clogged gutters can lead to roof damage or foundational damage, problems which will only increase in severity when winter storms and freezing temperatures hit. If you choose to clean gutters yourself, do so safely: check ladders before using, don’t reach further than you’re able, and get a friend or family member to provide stability. On the other hand, you can also enlist the help of a professional to do regular gutter maintenance over the autumn months.  

Roof 

Waking up to a roof problem in the middle of winter is a situation no homeowner wants to encounter. To help about this, do a thorough roof repair in fall. A licensed professional can help to evaluate signs of material damage, uneven planes, or other issues which could lead to costly repairs later on. It’s especially important to schedule an inspection if you’ve already noticed signs of damage, such as leaks, mold or pooling water. An inspector should check the inside as well as the outside of your home; and if certain repairs are recommended, consider prioritizing these expenses before the cold weather hits. 

Windows and Doors  

You may be able to reduce your winter heating bill by ensuring weatherstripping and seals around windows and doors are in good condition. This is also a good time to check for any damage that’s gone unmissed in the summer months, such as glass chips or warped frames. If windows are on the older side, and if budget allows, you might consider energy-efficient replacements to further increase energy efficiency and lower heating bills for the coming winter.