Before the cool, crisp days of fall transition into freezing weather, taking care of some essential maintenance tasks will help you save money, improve energy efficiency, and protect your home from harsh conditions.
The team at Comfort Zone Services put together a fall home maintenance checklist to help you prep your home and HVAC system for the Ontario winter.
1. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Tiny gaps around windows and doors allow cold drafts to sneak into your home, causing your heating system to work overtime. Applying weatherstripping or caulking to seal these leaks will keep warm air inside and reduce your energy bills. You can find affordable weatherstripping materials at most home improvement stores, making this a simple DIY fall home maintenance task with big rewards.
2. Inspect Your Roof for Damage
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against hail, rain, sleet, ice, snow, and other elements, so it’s essential to ensure it’s in good condition. Give it a once-over, looking for damaged or missing shingles, loose seams, and any signs of wear. If you’d rather not climb up yourself, hire a professional to inspect it for you. Repairing it now can prevent leaks and costly damage during winter storms.
3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
As leaves fall, they can quickly clog gutters and downspouts, stopping water from flowing away from your home. This can lead to water damage, ice dams, and potential structural issues. Clean your gutters thoroughly and make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. This is another fall home maintenance task you might want to consider hiring a professional for.
4. Check Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With heating systems and fireplaces in use, the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning increases in winter. Test all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace their batteries if necessary. Ensure these life-saving devices are in working order to keep your family safe.
5. Adjust and Upgrade Your Thermostat
If you have a programmable thermostat, don’t forget to update the temperature to suit your schedule and the cooler weather. If you don’t have one, fall is also a great time to upgrade. A smart thermostat allows you to set a lower temperature while you’re asleep or away from home. This helps you save on energy costs, maintains comfort, and keeps your HVAC system from overworking.
6. Schedule Fall HVAC Maintenance
Regular HVAC maintenance is essential to ensure your heating system is ready for the demands of winter. Fall HVAC maintenance includes inspecting and cleaning your furnace, checking for any potential issues, and replacing filters if needed. At Comfort Zone Services, we offer professional HVAC maintenance service in London, Ontario and the surrounding area. Our licensed technicians can spot and address minor problems before they become costly, inconvenient breakdowns during the colder months.
7. Replace Air and Water Filters
Filters in your home’s appliances, such as furnaces, refrigerators, and dishwashers, can accumulate dust and debris over time. Replace your air and water filters in the fall to improve efficiency and keep your HVAC and other systems running smoothly. While it depends on your specific filter, we recommend replacing or cleaning most HVAC filters every three months, or more often if you have pets or allergies. Fresh filters improve indoor air quality and help extend the life of your heating and air conditioning system.
8. Drain Your Water Heater
When sediment builds up in water heaters, it affects performance and reduces efficiency. Draining your water heater once a year helps remove this sediment so it can operate effectively and save money on energy costs. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions or call a professional if you’re unsure about the process.
9. Winterize Your Lawn and Trees
Preparing your lawn for winter can help it bounce back stronger in the spring. Rake fallen leaves, apply fertilizer, and consider mulching around trees and shrubs to insulate their roots from freezing temperatures. You may also want to think about applying tree wrap to trees with thin bark to prevent frost damage.
10. Turn Off Exterior Faucets and Drain Hoses
In colder climates like Ontario, water left in exterior pipes can freeze and cause pipes to burst. To avoid this, disconnect garden hoses, drain any lingering water, and shut off the water to outdoor faucets.
Get Started on Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist Today
A proactive approach to your fall home maintenance schedule can help you save on energy costs, prevent costly repairs, and enjoy a safer, more comfortable home this winter. From turning off exterior faucets to booking fall HVAC maintenance service, these key tasks will keep your home cozy and protected.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance in London, Ontario
At Comfort Zone Services, we offer expert repair, installation, and maintenance services for heaters, boilers, furnaces, thermostats, hot water heaters, humidifiers, and more. Don’t wait until the first snowfall to reach out. Contact us today to explore our affordable London HVAC maintenance packages or to schedule a free in-home estimate.