The Ultimate Fall Home Checklist – 20 Things You Need to Know

I’m giving you a comprehensive fall home checklist because it’s time to start getting your home ready for fall. It can be easy to get lost in the sea of pumpkin spices lattes and fall leaves but don’t wait until cold weather gets here to prepare your home for it.

A portion of this fall home checklist will only apply to homeowners, but renters can benefit just as much. There are some things on this fall home checklist that EVERYONE should do to get their homes ready for fall.

Change smoke alarm/CO2 detector batteries.

We usually go by the rule of changing these batteries when Daylight Savings Time begins in the spring and ends in the fall. Not only is this one of the easiest tasks to complete but also one of the most important in terms of safety for your family.

Inspect gas heaters and wood-burning stoves.

Inspect these devices to make sure they’re clean and free of any cracks or corrosion. Make sure any vents needed for airflow are clean and free of dirt or debris.

Check your furnace.

It’s a good idea to have your furnace serviced before winter weather sets in to make sure it’s working properly and has good airflow. You don’t want to wait until you need it to find out there’s a problem.

Replace your air filter.

Decreased airflow is a major culprit of rising energy bills. If the airflow is obstructed, your furnace has a harder time heating your home. You should change your air filters every three months at the very least, but preferably every month for optimal airflow (and lower energy bills).

Clean dryer vents.

Many home fires are started by lint buildup in the dryer. Static electricity (more present in the fall and winter months) could potentially spark a fire in lint buildup.

Take care of lawn and garden equipment.

Be careful to store your equipment properly for the winter. Drain the fuel from any gas-powered devices and store them away from moisture so they are ready to use in the spring.

Check winter equipment.

Make sure you check any equipment you may need in the winter. Snowblowers, generators, and space heaters are all prime examples. While you’re at it, make sure your fire extinguisher is up to date.

Stock firewood.

Now is the perfect time to stock firewood (if you’re not already stocked). But make sure you get enough for all the fall bonfires.

Clean the chimney.

Don’t wait to check the chimney until the day you want to light a fire in the fireplace. Inspect it early for anything that could be clogging it and potentially cause smoke build-up in the house or, even worse, a fire. If you’re not quite sure you want to take on that responsibility you can have a licensed chimney sweep take care of it in no time.

Seal up air leaks.

Check windows and doors for any air leaks that will cost you money this winter. Heat escaping through cracks and crevices is likely to skyrocket your energy bill. Weatherstripping is commonly used to remedy this issue but door sweeps are also a good investment.

Clean gutters and downspouts.

With all the falling leaves now is the prime time to make sure your gutters are clear. Clogged gutters can often lead to interior flooding and exterior damage to your home. And make sure you have cleared around the downspouts so water isn’t pooling around your home’s foundation.

Inspect your roof.

Winter weather can turn a small leak into a disaster. Use the early fall months to make sure your roof is in good condition. Replace any loose or missing shingles to protect your home.

Trim any trees close to power lines.

Trimming the trees close to power lines will help ensure that any icy weather that could damage the tree or branches won’t take out your power along with it. (This may also be a good time to prune some plants around your yard.)

Take care of outdoor faucets and hoses.

Turn off and drain outdoor faucets if possible. Drain and store hoses inside and out of the elements. Also, be sure to insulate any water pipes that are exposed and cannot be drained during the colder months.

Check walkways and railings for safety.

Cold (and often slick) weather can make it difficult to get around outside. Use these warmer months to secure railings, fill cracks/holes, and make sure your path is clear of obstacles before the snow falls.

Stock your winter supply kits.

Make sure you have things like snow brushes, small scrapers, and rock salt to combat ice and snow. Also, be sure to supplement your emergency car kit with a metal can, an emergency candle, and a lighter (for an emergency heat source) as well as a blanket in case you become stranded.

Click here to see what to put in your winter emergency car kit.

Take care of patio furniture.

Store or cover your patio furniture to keep it protected from the elements and lasting as long as possible. Bring in any containers that may fill with liquid as they may freeze and burst. Also, keep outdoor cushions and pillows from discoloring by storing them.

Fertilize your lawn.

The roots of your grass are still very active under the surface during colder months which makes fall the perfect time to fertilize your lawn for the best looking grass come spring.

Rake leaves.

As pretty as a carpet of fall-colored leaves may be, you won’t like what they leave behind. A thick cover of damp leaves all winter can damage your grass and, as a result, leave it looking patchy in the spring.

Bonus: Protecting outdoor plants.

Make sure you already have the supplies to cover any outdoor plants that might need extra protection from winter weather. The stores sell out of these pretty fast when winter storms move in.

Take the time to prepare now so you can relax and enjoy yourself later. When you’re finished you can make dessert!

20 Amazing Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Want to Make This Fall

Have a great week friends.