As we reach the midway point of November, now is the ideal time to start thinking about all those home maintenance tasks that need attention before winter sets in.
While preparing your home for the colder months may not feel pressing just yet, taking steps now will ensure your space is in top shape when the season’s chill truly arrives.
With winter’s cold and dark nights just around the corner, late fall offers the perfect opportunity to get ahead. By tackling a few essential tasks now, you can prepare your home to withstand the harsh conditions of the coldest months and keep things running smoothly all season long.
Here’s a list of basic home maintenance tasks you can do now to get ready for the coming cold:
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Gutters
Failing to clean out your gutters can lead to massive problems come winter. If your gutters aren’t flowing freely, water can build up and freeze during the winter, damaging them and other areas of your home. Roof leaks and other water damage are common with dirty gutters, so when the last leaf falls, make sure to clear them out.
Ceiling Fans
Did you know that ceiling fans are reversible? (Don’t worry if you didn’t—many people don’t!) By switching the direction the blades spin, you can control the airflow the way you want it. Hot air rises, so when your fan blades spin clockwise, they’ll push the hot air down and help distribute it around your home. This will make the heating process more efficient and could save you some money.
Furnace Prep
Most HVAC systems require minimal maintenance, but a yearly checkup before their operating season is recommended. Have a licensed professional inspect your furnace in the fall before you need it. With unexpected cold snaps, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your furnace is ready for action.
Reseal Windows and Doors
Drafty homes can make winter miserable and cost you a fortune on utility bills. In the early fall, seal up any windows or doors with caulk or silicone on the home’s exterior and interior. Weatherstripping is also a valuable tool in keeping the cold outside where it belongs.
Irrigation
If you live in an area with cold winters, you’ll want to make sure your lawn irrigation and outside spigots are fully drained. Remove all garden hoses and other accessories to prevent damage.
Consider buying insulators for all exterior water spigots and add insulation to your valve boxes to prevent damage from freezing. Installing new systems at adequate depths will help you avoid problems in the future.
Mowers and Blowers
As the growing season ends, it’s important to prepare your mower for a long season of sitting. Add stabilizer to your fuel tank or, better yet, get the fuel tank completely empty after your last use. This will help critical parts from becoming damaged.
This is also a great chance to get your snowblower ready for the impending winter weather. Make sure your oil is fresh and parts like spark plugs don’t need to be replaced. Making sure your machine is fine-tuned before you need it can save loads of stress when you do.
Fireplace Prep
If your home has a fireplace, you’ll want to make sure it will burn safely through the winter. Consider hiring a chimney sweep and having it inspected for signs of damage. Cleaning the fireplace itself will also help keep you safe and will make future cleanups easier. Fireplaces are a big reason for home fires during the winter, so use the fall to make sure you’re ready to go.
While preparing your home for winter might not be top of mind now, starting early ensures you’ll stay ahead of the season’s challenges.
