It would be wonderful if you could prepare your home for the fall by simply hanging a wreath and lighting a bunch pumpkin spice candles. Although these are important preparations for the change in seasons, being a homeowner comes with more important (and less fun) tasks. Here’s what you need to do before your home transitions from the hot summer to the cool autumn nights…and then to freezing temperatures.

1. Replace or clean your gutters

Real talk: Your gutters drain thousands of gallons from your roof every year, but you don’t give them the TLC they need. If they are clogged, it can lead to a damaged exterior and a flooded home. Clean them and, if needed, replace them. 

2. Check for drafts

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat loss through windows accounts for 25-30% of heating energy consumption. But it doesn’t need to be this way. Weatherstripping is easy and is probably the most cost effective way to reduce heating costs.

Tip: If you suspect a draft, try closing a window or door on a piece of paper. If you can easily slide the paper, it’s time to replace your weatherstripping.

3. Drain your outdoor faucets

Say with me: “I’ll turn off all outdoor taps before winter!” Drain and disconnect any garden hoses that are connected to outside spigots. This will prevent water from freezing. Do this. If you don’t, your pipes could burst.

4. Bring your outdoor furniture in

Yes, your furniture is outdoor furniture. You should not test the label of your furniture by leaving it out in hurricane-like weather or snowstorms. You spent money and time setting up that outdoor space, so if it’s something you want to use for another summer, you should store it in your garage or shed. If you do not have a place to store your items, you can cover them with a waterproof furniture cover that you can purchase on Amazon for just 36 dollars.

5. Repair any cracks on your driveway

This seems tedious, but it’s one of those things that you think, “eh…it’ll be fine!” It could be that it’s not fine. When water freezes and expands in cracks, it can cause the crack to grow. Enough small cracks will eventually turn into large cracks and the concrete can crumble. You’d also probably prefer to have a driveway that doesn’t have a giant hole. Fill it up with concrete crack sealer and you’re done.

6. Change your filters

You may be spending more money than you should on another item in your home. Your heating bills will rise if your filters are clogged. You’ll thank me later if you clean these filters regularly, not just in the fall. FYI: Disposable filter can be vacuumed once before replacing it. Foam filters can also be vacuumed without having to be replaced.

7. Fertilize your lawn

You know the saying: A good defense is better than a good offense. If you want your lawn to look great in the spring, summer and fall, you must prepare it for the winter and fall. Fertilizer will help prevent winter damage because the roots are still active even when the grass isn’t actively growing. This will also help your grass turn greener faster in the spring. After all, who wants to see a sad looking lawn when it’s nice out?

8. Test winter equipment

Hello, I’m from the future. Your snow blower doesn’t work and you can’t leave your house to buy a replacement. Just check it now to make your life easier.

9. Change your batteries

You should check all smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and other devices once a year to ensure they are working. You should check this out as you are already checking everything else.

Original Blog: https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/cleaning-tips/a22652916/fall-home-maintenance-checklist/