Every fall is a great time to check a few key things around the house. A little seasonal maintenance can prevent bigger problems down the road, save money on energy bills, and keep your home in top shape through the winter. Here’s a quick checklist to make sure you’re ready before the snow flies.

Here are 10 things I do every fall:

1. Gutters fill up fast. Clean them before leaks or foundation issues start.

2. Furnace tune-ups are a must. Prevent a breakdown before it’s 10 below.

3. Trim overhanging branches to protect your roof and gutters. 

4. Seal drafts with caulk or weatherstripping to save on heating. An easy way to check is by holding a lit candle near the edges of windows and doors and watch for the flame to flicker. 

5. Shut off and drain outdoor faucets to avoid burst pipes before the temps fall to freezing. 

6. Test your sump pump before fall rains hit.

7. Don’t let leaves sit all winter - rake or mulch them.

8. Clean your dryer vent to reduce fire risk.

9. Check your roof for missing shingles now. Make sure to get them fixed before the first snow falls. 

10. Test smoke & CO detectors and replace expired ones and change batteries. 

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