Fall Home Maintenance and Safety Checklist

September is that sweet spot between summer and pumpkin spice everything. The weather’s still nice enough to get outside, but those chilly evenings remind us that winter isn’t far away. That makes it the perfect time to complete some important tasks to ensure your home is ready for the cold weather season.

Use this Fall Home Maintenance and Safety Checklist as you prepare your home for winter:

1. Service the heating system.

Don’t wait until the first frosty night to find out your furnace, boiler, or heat pump isn’t working. Replace your furnace filter and schedule your annual home heating maintenance appointment. 

2. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Deaths caused by non-working or absent smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms occur every year, largely due to battery issues or defective units. Check that your systems are in good working order.

>Pro Tip: Most alarms have a “test” button. Push it, and if it beeps, you’re good!

3.  Clear out the dryer vent.

Even if you remove lint from the trap regularly, it still accumulates in the dryer vent behind your machine, posing a fire hazard. Consider hiring a professional duct cleaning service to remove hard-to-reach lint buildup.

4.  Adjust the ceiling fan direction and speed.

To help warm a room in the winter, switch your ceiling fan to spin clockwise at a low speed. Refer to the manufacturer’s directions if you’re not sure how to reset the switch. For newer models or "smart" fans, look for the reverse function on the remote control or a connected app.

5.  Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and faucets. Winterize sprinklers and irrigation systems.

Once temperatures dip below freezing, any leftover water in outdoor pipes can cause them to expand and crack. It’s time to shut off outdoor faucets, drain hoses, and winterize sprinklers.

6.  Clean and inspect the fireplace.

To keep your fireplace burning safely and efficiently this season, schedule a professional cleaning and inspection to remove creosote and debris, and check for any potential damage.

7.  Clean the gutters and inspect the roof.

Leaves are falling, which means gutters are filling. Clear them out and check your roof for buckling, curling, or loose shingles. If you notice signs of trouble, have a professional roofer inspect it.

8. Clean the siding and touch up any chipping paint.

Wash your home’s siding and touch up any chipped exterior paint (including doors, stairs, and decking) to protect against winter's harsh elements.

9. Check weather stripping and insulation.

Check the weather stripping around doors and windows, replacing as needed to seal against drafts and improve your home’s energy efficiency. 

Ensure there is sufficient insulation in the attic and basement; add more if necessary.

10. Inspect your home's exterior and foundation.

Look for cracks or gaps, and seal them with caulk to prevent moisture from entering.

11. Trim overgrown trees and shrubs.

Trim any trees or shrubs near your home to prevent ice and snow build-up or storm damage.

12. Update your emergency kit.

Ensure your emergency kit is stocked with first-aid supplies and working flashlights. Refresh your pantry with some non-perishable food in case of an emergency. Talk to your family about emergency evacuation plans and how to communicate with one another if separated.

When it comes to living safely and comfortably in a New England winter, a little preparation goes a long way! If you need assistance preparing your heating system for the season, please contact our expert team. We’re your local home heating specialists.

Home Heating Installation and Service in MA and NH

Founded in 1996, Main Stream Mechanical offers residential heating installation, service, and repair throughout New Hampshire and Massachusetts. With over 60 years of combined experience, our licensed technicians undergo ongoing training to ensure the highest level of service and satisfaction.