How to Prepare Your Home for Fall and Winter Care

1. Inspect and Maintain Heating Systems

• Check Furnace/Boiler: Have your heating system inspected and serviced by a professional to ensure it’s running efficiently.
  
  
• Replace Filters: Change air filters to improve air quality and heating efficiency.
  
  
• Test Thermostat: Ensure your thermostat is working correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control.

2. Seal Drafts and Insulate

• Check Windows and Doors: Inspect for drafts and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk.
  
  
• Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes with insulation to prevent freezing and bursting.
  
  
• Add Insulation: Check your attic and walls for adequate insulation and add more if necessary.

3. Prepare Your Roof and Gutters

• Inspect Roof: Look for damaged shingles or leaks and have them repaired.
  
  
• Clean Gutters: Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water damage.

4. Prepare Your Yard and Exterior

• Clean Up Yard: Rake leaves, trim bushes, and remove dead plants to prepare your garden for winter.
  
  
• Store Outdoor Furniture: Clean and store or cover outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements.
  
  
• Check Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect hoses, drain them, and cover outdoor faucets to prevent freezing.

5. Check and Replace Weatherproofing

• Inspect Caulking: Reapply caulking around windows, doors, and other openings to keep cold air out.
  
  
• Install Draft Stoppers: Use draft stoppers on doors to block cold air from entering.

6. Prepare for Emergencies

• Stock Up: Ensure you have essentials like blankets, batteries, and a first aid kit.
  
  
• Create a Winter Emergency Kit: Include items like a shovel, ice scraper, and sand or salt for de-icing driveways.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Check Batteries: Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
  
  
• Test Alarms: Ensure all detectors are working properly and replace any that are outdated.

8. Maintain Chimney and Fireplace

• Inspect Chimney: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional to prevent chimney fires.
  
  
• Check Fireplace: Ensure the fireplace damper is functioning and that the area around the fireplace is clean.

9. Prepare for Snow and Ice

• Stock Salt or Sand: Keep salt or sand on hand to manage ice on walkways and driveways.
  
  
• Buy a Snow Shovel or Snowblower: Ensure you have the necessary tools for snow removal.

10. Check and Update Insurance

• Review Policy: Make sure your homeowner’s insurance covers winter-related issues like snow damage or pipe bursts.