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Fall Checklist: Start Preparing Your Home Now

Autumn is here. There is no escaping it, and you know it. If you're like me, then you knew this and had a plan in place for the summer-to-fall transition. If this is new to you, then you'd better read the rest of this article! This fall checklist will help you plan for a smooth winter and keep you ahead of the curve.

1. Check all safety gadgets

This includes indoor and outdoor devices such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, security cameras, and motion sensor lights. A good tip is to replace the batteries if you don't remember the last time you did. Also be sure to check labels for special instructions.

2. Rake those leaves

Keep lawn debris to a minimum. Leaves can hide dangers like sharp tools, and poo. Stepping in your own pet's poo is embarrassing, trust me. Fallen leaves will deprive your grass of vital sunlight in autumn. Clean your gutters: Make sure you keep this up until all leaves have fallen from the trees for the season. If left untreated, leaves in gutters can freeze with the help of moisture that can't escape because of the clog. This can prevent proper drainage when snow melts and add weight to gutters, bending and damaging them.

3. Don't delay exterior repairs

Walk the perimeter of your property checking for breaches into your home that animals or insects can enter through. Check for peeling exterior paint. If you have outdoor lighting equipment, check for light bulbs that need to be replaced. A few more things you should look for include:

• Driveway cracks and uneven walkways
• Check railings and make sure they are secure, not wobbly or rusted
• Shut off exterior faucets
• Check your siding for loose boards

4. Vacuum EVERYTHING

Start with cleaning your ceiling fan blades with a vacuum hose. While you're at it, flip the switch that reverses the ceiling fan rotation so warm air circulates better in a room through the winter months. Remove window air conditioner units and vacuum their internal components. Outdoor units should be covered with a fitting air conditioner cover.

5. Protect your Home from the elements

• Replace all air filters to conserve energy and reduce dust circulation.
• Check the caulking and weather seals around doors and windows for holes and draft.
• Add weather-stripping or caulking to trouble areas where air seeps through.
• Check your dryer vent. Make sure the exterior door to the vent closes when not in use. A clogged exhaust pipe is a fire hazard and should be cleaned biannually.

6. Stow your summer yard equipment & furniture

This includes putting away your summer equipment and preparing your winter gear for use. Store your garden hoses, lawn mowers, and hedge trimmers towards the back of your shed or basement and move your snow equipment out to an easily accessible indoor area. It's a good idea to pre-check your winter equipment to see if it's still working and usable.

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