Fall into home maintenance this September & October! As the leaves change, it's the perfect time to prep your home for the cooler months ahead. From checking your fireplace and chimney to closing up hose connections and windows, these tips will help you cozy up safely and efficiently. And don't forget your outdoor greenery—give your plants and trees a little TLC to help them through the winter.  Here's why:

1. Check and clean your fireplace & chimney
Regularly cleaning your fireplace and chimney enhances safety by reducing the risk of fires caused by creosote buildup. It also improves heating efficiency, allowing for better airflow, and enhances indoor air quality by preventing harmful gases and smoke from entering your home.

2. Clean your oven range hood filter
Cleaning the oven range hood filter helps prevent kitchen fires by removing grease buildup, while also improving ventilation to effectively remove smoke, odors, and steam during cooking. Additionally, a clean filter allows the range hood to work more efficiently, reducing energy consumption.

3. Clear leaves from the eavestroughs (gutters)
Clearing leaves and debris from your gutters prevents water damage to your home’s foundation and roof by allowing proper drainage. It also helps avoid the formation of ice dams in winter, which can damage your roof and gutters, and protects your landscaping by preventing water from pooling around your home.

4. Check your roof for signs of wear or damage
Inspecting your roof for damage helps you catch small issues early, preventing costly repairs down the road. Ensuring your roof is in good condition also protects your home from water leaks and harsh weather, while extending the roof’s lifespan and saving money in the long term.

5. Close the outside hose connection
Shutting off and draining the outdoor hose connection prevents water from freezing in the pipes, which can lead to bursting and expensive repairs. It’s a simple way to avoid winter plumbing issues while also conserving water.

6. Close your windows and skylights
Properly sealing your windows and skylights before winter improves energy efficiency by preventing drafts and keeping warm air inside, which reduces heating costs. It also helps maintain indoor comfort and prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to condensation and mold.

7. Clean and reactivate your heat recovery ventilator (HRV) if turned off for the summer
Reactivating your HRV improves indoor air quality by circulating fresh air while removing stale air, reducing indoor pollutants. It also helps control humidity levels, preventing moisture buildup and mold growth, while capturing heat from outgoing air to reduce energy costs.

8. Prepare your outdoor plants and trees for winter
Preparing your outdoor plants for winter, through pruning, mulching, and covering sensitive plants, protects their health and ensures a strong start in spring. Proper tree maintenance also helps prevent branches from causing damage to your home or power lines during winter storms, reducing the need for extensive maintenance in the spring.

Reach out to me anytime for more tips on maintaining your home's value and appeal. Let's make your home goals happen together!