As the sweltering heat of summer starts to give way to the crisp, invigorating air of fall, it’s time to transition your home from a sun-soaked oasis to a cozy autumn retreat. Preparing your home for fall creates a comfortable, efficient, and welcoming environment for shorter days and cooler nights.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to prepare your home for fall and set you up for a successful transition to the new season. We’ve also created a printable checklist to help you keep track of what you’ve done!
Schedule System Inspections and Services
Heating System Check
Before the temperatures dip too low, ensure your heating system is in top shape. Schedule a professional inspection to check for any necessary repairs or maintenance including hose connections, drain lines, airflow, and electrical components. Plus, the filters should be changed. A well-maintained system will keep you warm and cozy throughout the fall and winter months.
Also give your external HVAC unit a quick clean to remove any dirt, debris, or obstructions, and make sure there isn’t any plant overgrowth at the base of the unit.
Plumbing System Check
Avoid major issues during the upcoming cold months with an inspection of your plumbing system before the shift in temperatures. Schedule a plumber to check your plumbing and drain systems to make sure they’re in good working order or identity issues. You definitely don’t want a frozen pipe this winter!
Electrical System Check
An electrical safety inspection provides a thorough assessment of your entire electrical system. It’s designed to ensure that your wiring, appliances, and other electrical-powered components meet the legal safety standards and identify any potential issues.
Energy Efficiency Check
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining indoor comfort and energy efficiency. If you have attic insulation, make sure it’s in good condition, as it plays a key role in keeping warm air inside.
WINDOWS & DOORS: Check your windows and doors for drafts and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulking. Check for any type of improper fit, drafting, warping, cracks, discoloration, condensation between glass panes, and inspect all screens and glass panes for damage. Insulating your home helps retain heat and reduce energy bills.
Home Exterior Check
The outside of your home has critical components for a safe and cozy home. A home exterior check is a great way to make sure these components are in the best possible shape!
ROOFING: A damaged roof impacts the entire structural integrity of your home. Be sure to check for damaged or missing shingles, leaks or water stains in your attic, and the health of all other roofing materials (like nails, tiles, sealants, etc.) You’ll also want to clear off any debris that may have collected over the summer.
SIDING: Be sure to check your siding for damage, including holes, dents, cracks or chips. Check any shutters to see if they are hanging loosely, broken, or warped.
TRIM & FASCIA: The trim and fascia on your home also need inspection. Look for wood rot, cracks or splits, warping, moss growth, and look to see if your gutters are leaning or loose.
We recommend You Thoroughly Inspect…
Check Your Basement, Crawlspace, and/or Attic
Take a close look at your basement, crawlspace, or attic checking for signs of moisture, mold, and insects or critters. Plus, pay attention to any odd smells that could indicate ventilation issues.
Check Your Gutters & Yard Drainage
It’s important to keep water from pooling around your home’s foundation. Clean all yard drainage and make sure that the gutters and downspouts aren’t obstructed or clogged with debris or fallen leaves.
Check Your Outdoor Facets & Hoses
Check for drips from any outdoor faucets. All outdoor faucets should be shut off and covered for the winter months. You should also remove and store all hoses.
Check Your Fireplace & Chimney
If you have a fireplace, it’s essential to ensure it’s ready for use. Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional to remove any buildup or debris. This not only ensures safety but also improves the efficiency of your fireplace. Stock up on firewood if you plan to use it and consider having your fireplace serviced to ensure it’s in good working order.
Check Your Home Safetfy Devices
As you transition to using your heating system more frequently, now is a great time to check your home safety devices to make sure they’re working properly.
Check and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed. Every device has a date code and should be updated–smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years and carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every 5 years.
Other Fall Maintenance Tips
Prepare Your Outdoor Spaces
As the days grow shorter, you’ll likely spend more time indoors, but don’t forget about your outdoor spaces.
- Prepare your lawn for winter by raking leaves and applying a final fertilization.
- Wash and store patio furniture.
- Check your septic tank level to make sure it doesn’t need pumped.
- Dust & clean often neglected areas–windows, railings, ceiling fans, etc.
- Check for and seal cracks in your driveway or foundation.
- If you have a garden, consider planting fall flowers like chrysanthemums or pansies.
Organize and Store Summer Items
With fall approaching, it’s time to stow away your summer gear. Clean and organize your outdoor furniture, grill, and pool equipment before putting them into storage.
Revamp with Fall Decor
Fall is the perfect time to refresh your home with seasonal decor. Swap out any summer accents for warm, cozy elements like plush throws, rich-colored pillows, and autumn-themed centerpieces.
Preparing your home for fall involves a blend of practical tasks and seasonal updates. By focusing on heating, insulation, and outdoor maintenance, you’ll ensure your home is ready to embrace the crisp autumn air and cozy nights ahead. So, gather your favorite fall candles, pull out your warmest blankets, and enjoy the beauty and comfort of the season in a home that’s perfectly prepared for fall.
Cook Home Services is proud to service the Crawfordsville and surrounding communities in Indiana for:
- HVAC
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Renovations
- and more!
Our mission is to provide you with quality comfort and home improvement services with 100% possible satisfaction. We strive to accomplish this mission by offering the highest quality products installed by highly trained professionals who customize indoor comfort solutions and home renovations that fit the client’s individual lifestyles.