Fall is the perfect window for getting your home in shape before winter sets in. The weather is still mild enough to work outside comfortably, and tackling a few key chores now can prevent headaches once snow, ice, and freezing temperatures arrive. From the heating system that keeps you warm to the windows and deck that take a beating from the elements, a little seasonal attention goes a long way. Here’s where to focus your efforts this autumn.
Give Your Heating System a Checkup
Your furnace or heat pump is about to become the hardest-working appliance in your home. If something is wrong with it, you want to find out on a pleasant October afternoon, not during the first frigid night of the year. That’s why fall is the ideal time to schedule professional service.
Home Guide recommends having an HVAC technician inspect your system at least once a year to catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs. During a fall visit, a technician will typically test the thermostat, inspect electrical connections, clean key components, check the blower motor, and examine gas furnaces for cracks or venting problems that could pose a safety risk.
You can do your part between visits, too. Replace the air filter before you turn on the heat for the season, clear furniture and rugs away from vents, and test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. If you have a heat pump, clear fallen leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit so air can flow freely.
Clean and Inspect Your Windows
Windows play a big role in keeping your home comfortable when temperatures drop. Clean glass lets in more natural sunlight, which can help warm rooms on bright winter days, and the cleaning process gives you a chance to spot drafts and damage before the cold arrives.
According to Family Handyman, most homes need their windows washed once or twice a year. Fall is a great time for one of those cleanings, since it removes the pollen, dust, and grime that built up over the summer. Be sure to wipe down the frames and sills, and vacuum out the window tracks so the sashes open and close smoothly.
While you’re at it, look closely at the caulking and weather-stripping around each window. Cracked caulk or worn seals let warm air escape and cold air sneak in, driving up heating bills. Replacing them is an inexpensive project that can make rooms feel noticeably cozier. Fall is also a good time to swap screens for storm windows if your home has them.
Protect Your Deck From the Elements
Decks take a lot of abuse during the colder months. Wet leaves, snow, ice, and repeated freezing and thawing can lead to mold, mildew, rot, and warping if the surface isn’t properly cared for. A bit of maintenance now helps your deck survive the winter in good condition.
This Old House advises cleaning your deck at least once a year using a cleaner suited to its material. Wood decks should also be treated with a water-repellent sealer every other year to guard against moisture damage, while composite and vinyl decks can usually be cleaned with nothing more than soap and water.
Before the first snowfall, sweep away leaves and debris that can trap moisture and stain the surface. Check for loose boards, protruding nails, and wobbly railings, and make repairs while the weather still cooperates. Store or cover patio furniture and grills, and choose a deck-safe ice melt if you’ll need to clear the surface this winter.
Enjoy a Worry-Free Winter
A few weekends of fall maintenance can save you from expensive surprises later in the season. By servicing your heating system, cleaning and sealing your windows, and protecting your deck, you’ll head into winter knowing your home is ready for whatever the weather brings.
