Fall Maintenance Checklist

Now that the cooler temperatures have arrived it is time to start thinking about getting your home ready for that first freeze. This fall maintenance checklist will ensure you don’t forget anything!

Outside

Bring plants indoors
- Not all plants can survive the frost/thaw cycles or winter temperatures. The transition should be gradual so that your plants are not shocked, bring your plants into a shady spot for a few days before coming indoors. The best time to do so is when you have all the windows open and the inside and outside temps are similar, don’t wait until the night of the first frost! Make sure you have a clean area near sunlight and away from any pets or children who may harm the plants. Also be sure to check your plants for any pests or diseases before the transition, bring only healthy plants inside.
Trim trees, bushes and perennials
- Remove any shrubs or bushes that may have died
- Mulch perennials. The best time to mulch these hardy plants is after the first hard freeze.
Plant spring bulbs
Wash outdoor rugs before storing
Clean grill and cover and/or store
Clean patio furniture before covering or storing
Remove hoses from outdoor spigots, turn off outdoor valves and empty sprinkler systems
Cut down and remove dead trees and hanging tree branches
- Specifically check for limbs hanging over your home, walkways and driveway
Clean gutters and downspouts
Fertilize and reseed your lawn
Wash your windows
Winterize all gas-operated lawn equipment
- Remove oil and gas plus any clippings from lawn mower and weed trimmer. Remove all gas from leaf blowers and chain saws. Store clean in a dry location.
Inspect and repair snow blower before first use, plus purchase ice melt
Rake and remove fallen leaves
Clear out any leaves or debris from basement window well covers and inspect windows for cracks or leaks
Remove all soil from pots and planters kept outdoors, soil left in clay pots can cause cracks if frozen.

Inside

Replace your furnace filter and have a professional inspect it
Remove or cover window A/C units
Weatherize your home
- Install weather stripping on exterior doors
- Caulk windows
- Remove and wash screens
- Wash and install storm windows
- Seal old windows with special plastic
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Set thermostat for cooler weather
Clean your fireplace and chimney, plus inspect for damage. Be sure you are stocked up on firewood!
Reverse your fan, by turning clockwise the warm air will circulate down
Clean your carpets
Change air filters
Insulate exposed water pipes to keep them from freezing
Have the gas fireplace and gas lines inspected
Drain your hot water heater and remove any sediment which could clog pipes
Clean dryer vent
Clean and set up a humidifier
Bleed radiators