Fall Maintenance Checklist

It's time to face the facts, fall is just days away - September 22 to be exact. Here are some things that you can do around your home and yard to get ready for fall.

Around the House:
• Drain hot water heater and remove any sediment from bottom.
• Replace the furnace filter (should be done every 3 months).
• Have your heating system serviced.
• Have your chimney serviced and cleaned. Check for any missing mortar or for debris that
could be an obstruction, including bird nests.
• Clean your gutters and downspouts throughout the fall to prevent blockage.
• Check and repair any window cracks or holes in weather stripping or caulking.
• Have your ducts cleaned and serviced.
• Check to make sure your thermostat works properly before the cold weather hits.
• Check crawlspace for flooding after the first long rainfall.
• Check the locks on windows and doors to make sure they are working properly.
• As the days get shorter, make sure your nightlights are working properly.
• Make sure you have new batteries in all your flashlights and that they are easily found around the house.
• Stock up on bottled water and snacks in case of a power outage.
• Turn ON gas furnace pilot light.
• Make sure you have adequate insulation to help save on your energy bills.
• If you need to buy a new furnace, buy one that is energy efficient.
• Fall is a great time to paint the inside of your home. Cool, breezy days help ventilate the home and clear the fumes quickly.
• If you have small children or allergies, look for paints that are odorless.
• Continually check your air vents to make sure they aren’t blocked by fall debris.
• Clean out the bathroom fan/filter.
• Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working properly.
• Make sure you have an adequate amount of fire extinguishers for your home. At least one on each floor and in the garage.
• If you haven’t already, make a fire escape plan for your house and make sure you review it with all family members. Keep rope ladders in each of the second story rooms.

Around the Yard:
• Fertilize and seed your lawn.
• Cut back any tree branches that are growing towards your house or a power line.
• This is the best time of year to plant bulbs.
• Start a compost with the rakes leaves, gutter clutter and yard debris. Compost makes
great fertilizer and fall is the perfect time to start one.