10 Essential Fall & Winter Home Maintenance Tips

As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, it’s the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for the colder months ahead. A little preventative maintenance now can save you from costly repairs and headaches later. Here are 10 essential fall and winter home maintenance tips to keep your home cozy, efficient, and in great shape.

1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Falling leaves and debris can clog your gutters, leading to water damage and ice dams. Clean them thoroughly and make sure downspouts direct water at least 3–4 feet away from your foundation.

2. Check Your Roof

Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or signs of leaks. Catching issues early can prevent expensive repairs once snow and ice arrive.

3. Service Your Heating System

Schedule a professional inspection for your furnace or heat pump before the temperatures drop. Replace filters monthly and make sure your thermostat is working efficiently.

4. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Drafty windows and doors can waste energy and make your home uncomfortable. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal leaks and reduce your heating bill.

5. Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you plan to use your fireplace, have the chimney cleaned and inspected for buildup, blockages, or cracks. A clean chimney improves air quality and reduces the risk of fire.

6. Protect Your Pipes

Wrap exposed pipes in insulation sleeves to prevent freezing. Disconnect garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and shut off water to exterior spigots.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Replace batteries and test all alarms to ensure they’re working properly. Heating systems and fireplaces can increase the risk of carbon monoxide buildup in winter.

8. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Set your ceiling fans to spin clockwise at a low speed. This pushes warm air down and helps distribute heat evenly throughout the room.

9. Check Insulation in Attic and Crawl Spaces

Proper insulation helps keep warm air inside and cold air out. Check for thin or missing insulation and add more where needed for better energy efficiency.

10. Prepare for Snow and Ice

Stock up on salt, ice melt, and shovels before the first storm hits. Check your snow blower to ensure it’s working properly, and mark your driveway edges if you use a plow service.

Taking the time to tackle these fall and winter maintenance tasks will help protect your home and keep it running efficiently through the coldest months. Whether you handle these yourself or hire a professional, a little preparation now can make your home safer, warmer, and more comfortable all season long.