As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, it's time to start thinking about fall interior maintenance and preparing your home for the colder months ahead. A fall maintenance checklist is essential for ensuring that your home stays cozy and in good condition throughout the season. From checking the heating system to sealing windows and doors, there are several important tasks to tackle. By following this checklist, you'll be able to stay on top of any necessary repairs or updates, and keep your home in tip-top shape. So grab a pumpkin spice latte and let's dive into this fall interior maintenance checklist!

Interior Maintenance

1. Seal and Insulate Windows and Doors

Proper sealing and insulation are crucial for energy efficiency and maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Check your windows and doors for air leaks by moving your hand around the frame and applying weather stripping and caulk where needed. Weather stripping can be applied around the door (such as M-D Building Products Vinyl Weatherstrip Replacement for Doors) or at the threshold (M-D Building Products Vinyl U-Shape Deny Slide-On Under Door Seal). Look for a water, mold and mildew resistant caulk that is white or clear (such as DAP AMP Advanced Modified Polymer All Weather Window, Door and Siding Sealant). This will help cut down on drafts and prevent heat loss, ultimately saving you money on heating costs.

2. Ensure Proper Functioning of Heating Systems

Before the colder months arrive, replace your furnace filter. This is one of the few things you can do without getting a professional involved. They get clogged usually with pet hair and dirt. Every 4-5 years have your heating system checked by a licensed heating contractor. Proper filter replacement and servicing of your heating system will ensure it uses energy efficiently, lasts longer, and experiences fewer problems. This regular maintenance is essential to keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the fall and winter seasons.

3. Prepare Woodstoves and Fireplaces

If you have a woodstove or fireplace, it's important to get them in working order before you start using them. Check the door gasket for a tight seal and clean and inspect the glass door for any cracks. Additionally, have your chimney cleaned by a licensed chimney sweep to remove creosote buildup, which can pose a fire hazard. You can also use a shop vacuum to clean up ashes that were leftover from previous uses. Regular maintenance of your woodstove or fireplace will ensure safe and efficient operation during the colder months.

4. Optimize Ceiling Fan Direction

Changing the direction of your ceiling fan is a simple yet effective way to circulate warm air throughout your home. By creating an upward draft, you can redistribute the warm air that tends to accumulate near the ceiling. This small adjustment can make a significant difference in maintaining a comfortable temperature and reducing heating costs.

5. Test and Replace Batteries in Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Safety should always be a top priority in your home. Test the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace them if necessary. It's also a good idea to keep extra household batteries on hand. By ensuring that your detectors are in proper working condition, you can provide a safe environment for you and your family.

6. Check Basement Windows for Drafts and Damage

Basement windows are often overlooked but can contribute to drafts and energy loss. Check these windows for any damaged trim, cracked caulking, drafts, loose frames, or cracked panes. Addressing these issues will help maintain a comfortable indoor environment and prevent heat loss.

7. Maintain Air Conditioners and Purchase Dehumidifiers

Even though you may not be using your air conditioners during the fall, it's important to perform maintenance to ensure their optimal functioning. Vacuum the internal parts of your air conditioners and remove them from windows. For your upright AC units that are outside, take a moment to clean off the external filters where the AC unit intakes air.

Alternatively, you can wrap the outside box with an approved tarp or plastic cover to prevent rusting and debris build up during the fall and winter.

If you live in an area that rains a lot, dehumidifiers are a handy tool for infrequently used spaces in your house, shed or car. The trapped moisture can lead to spores growth which is unhealthy and a pain to clean up in the spring.

Fall Maintenance Checklist

Download your Fall Maintenance Checklist below. The goal is to help your fall and winter run a little smoother. Start prepping your home for the changing season. With a little time and effort, you can ensure that your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store. Happy fall!

If you are unsure how to inspect or maintain these features in your home or could use some help with your fall to-do list, consider hiring Simler Solutions LLC or a local professional to do the job for you.