When the leaves start to turn and the mornings feel crisp, it’s a sure sign that fall has arrived — and with it, the perfect opportunity to get your home ready for the colder months ahead. A little preventive maintenance now can save you time, money, and stress when winter weather hits.
Here are 10 simple maintenance tasks that every homeowner should tackle before the first freeze.
1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Those colorful leaves look great in your yard — but not in your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Take time to clear out leaves and debris, and make sure your downspouts direct water well away from your home.
2. Inspect the Roof
After a long, hot summer, your roof deserves a checkup. Look for missing shingles, soft spots, or storm damage that could lead to leaks once snow and ice arrive. Catching small issues now can save you from expensive repairs later.
3. Clean Dryer Vents
Cooler weather means heavier fabrics and more laundry. Lint buildup in dryer vents is a common — and dangerous — fire hazard. Clean your vent hose and exterior duct at least once a year to keep your dryer running efficiently and your home safe.
4. Service Your Heating System
Before you turn on your furnace or heat pump, schedule a professional tune-up. A fall inspection ensures your system is running efficiently, safely, and ready for the season. Regular maintenance also helps extend the life of your equipment.
5. Replace Furnace Filters
This one’s easy to overlook but makes a big difference. Changing your furnace filter improves airflow, boosts efficiency, and keeps your indoor air cleaner — especially important when your home is closed up for winter.
6. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Before freezing temperatures arrive, disconnect hoses and shut off exterior water lines. Drain any remaining water to prevent frozen pipes that can crack or burst. While you’re at it, add insulated faucet covers for extra protection.
7. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With fireplaces, heaters, and ovens running, fall is the time to make sure your smoke and CO detectors are in good working order. Replace batteries, test each device, and upgrade any that are more than 10 years old.
8. Clean the Fireplace and Chimney
Whether you have a wood-burning or gas fireplace, annual cleaning is a must. Have a professional inspect and clean your chimney to remove creosote buildup, improve airflow, and ensure safe operation before your first cozy fire.
9. Trim Trees and Shrubs
Pruning overgrown branches keeps your landscape healthy and helps prevent storm damage. Cut back limbs near the roof, windows, and power lines before snow or ice causes them to break.
10. Check Exterior Paint and Siding
Walk around your home and look for peeling paint, cracked siding, or gaps where moisture could get in. Touching up paint or repairing siding now protects your home from cold weather damage and helps it look its best all year long.
Let CHBS Help You Get Winter-Ready
From gutter cleaning and minor roof repairs to weatherproofing, safety checks, and seasonal prep, Complete Home & Business Solutions can help with all your fall maintenance needs.
We offer expert solutions for every space — inside and out — so you can head into winter knowing your home is safe, efficient, and protected.
Call today to schedule your fall maintenance visit or request a quote for seasonal repair projects.