With temperatures and leaves dropping, fall has made its way into the Carolinas. Embrace the change of the seasons and seize the opportunity to accomplish the cleaning and maintenance tasks from our recommended seasonal checklist.

Routine Maintenance

One of the best, and most important, parts of your home maintenance will be your general items, no matter the time of year.  Items you should be doing each month are:

• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
• Clean garbage disposal 
• Clean air vents
• Check and replace HVAC filters (every 2-3 months)
• Check fire extinguisher

Exterior Maintenance

• Inspect your roof for damage from summer storms
• Clean out gutters in preparation for falling leaves
• Schedule an HVAC check-up and inspection
• Fertilize the lawn, clean out garden beds, and prune trees and shrubs
• Check weather stripping around doors and windows
• Transition any necessary plants indoors
• Put away yard hoses and sprinklers

Interior Maintenance

• Clean and inspect chimneys and fireplaces
• Switch your fan direction to clockwise - this pushes warm air down to save on heating costs
• Inspect attic spaces for leaks
• Wash interior trash cans
• Inspect dryer ducts and wash lint filters
• Deep clean the oven, stove, refrigerator, freezer, and microwave
• Clean the dishwasher and washing machine
• Locate the water shut-off valve to prepare for winter freezes
• Ensure pipes have proper insulation

Keep in mind that this list of fall home maintenance tasks is not an exhaustive list. Depending on the unique characteristics of your home and your lifestyle, there may be additional items to prepare your home. Need help with some or all of these projects? Your Helen Adams Realty agent is happy to help with vendor recommendations.