Happy Fall Ya’ll! Get your home autumn ready with this list of 10 to-dos.
1. Clean Out Your Gutters
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- An old plastic spatula comes in handy when it’s gutter cleaning time. It doesn’t scratch up the gutter and you can cut the spatula to fit gutter contours. Grime wipes right off the spatula too, making cleanup a breeze.
2. Check Your Smoke & CO Detectors
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- With heaters running and fireplaces roaring, fall is a great time to make sure your smoke and CO detectors are working. Be sure to check the batteries and expiration dates. Smoke detectors are typically good for 10 years and CO detectors last for about six years.
3. Replace the Furnace Filters
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- Changing your furnace filter is one the simplest tasks on this list. If it’s been awhile since you’ve changed it, be sure to replace it with a new one before kicking on the heater this fall.
4. Schedule Chimney & Furnace Maintenance
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- Speaking of furnaces, depending on the last time it was cleaned, you’ll want to schedule a chimney cleaning. Make sure your fireplace and heating system are clean, safe and ready to go by having a pro look at them now.
5. Remove Window A/C Units
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- If you used window a/c units this summer, which A LOT of us have, you’ll want to remove and store them. If you choose to keep them up, make sure to pick up some insulating covers to minimize winter heat loss.
6. Fertilize the Lawn
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- Fall is a great time to fertilize your lawn one last time. With the epic heat waves we had this summer, your lawn could use some fertilizer and the long anticipated PNW rainy season.
7. Add Weatherstripping to Windows & Doors in Need
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- Newer double-paned windows won’t necessarily need weatherstripping, but it is a good idea for older windows to prevent leaks and retain heat. This goes for your doors as well. You don’t want tiny pests seeking solace from the autumn rain in your home.
8. Maintain the Washer & Dryer
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- It’s a good idea to thoroughly clean out your dryer vents often, but you’ll want to make sure that your washer hoses are in good shape as well. Cracked hoses can cause leaks and costly repairs. Clean dryer vents and hoses will help your machines work more efficiently and reduce the risk of fire – which is always a good thing.
9. Cozy Up with Warm Layers
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- Now’s the time to start thinking about changing out your lighter-weight bedding with some flannel sheets and fluffy duvets. Bring warmth to your home by adding a few throw blankets around the house or even swap out the area rug for something thicker. Not only will slight changes like this make your home cozy, it can also cut down on your energy bills.
10. Get Your Wardrobe Fall Ready
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- Fall is a great opportunity to sort through your wardrobe, donate things you no longer wear, and get your colder weather pieces repaired or dry cleaned. Gather your summer clothes and put them in an out-of-the-way spot so your fall wardrobe can be front and center.
By prepping your home for the colder months ahead of us, you’ll prevent breakdowns, save money and keep your home looking brand spanking new! Now add a few cozy touches here and there, relax in your favorite chair, and enjoy the comforts of your fall ready home.
