Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Canadian Homeowners

Cooler days, changing leaves and crisp mornings can only mean one thing: fall has arrived. And before winter settles in, now is a good time to give your home a little seasonal attention.

A few simple maintenance tasks can help keep your home comfortable and ready for the colder months ahead. Here’s what to add to your fall checklist.

Start Outside

Before the snow arrives, take a walk around the exterior of your home.

1) Clean gutters and downspouts. Clear away leaves and debris and make sure water is being directed away from your foundation.

2) Check windows and doors. Inspect seals and weatherstripping for drafts that could let cold air in.

3) Disconnect outdoor hoses. Drain and store garden hoses and prepare outdoor faucets for freezing temperatures.

4) Put summer items away. Clean and store patio furniture, gardening tools and other seasonal items before winter.

Get Ready to Turn Up the Heat

Your heating system is about to get a lot busier.

1) Replace your furnace filter. A clean filter supports proper airflow and helps keep your system running efficiently.

2) Test your thermostat. Turn on the heat before you really need it to make sure everything is working as expected.

3) Check your vents. Make sure furniture, rugs and other items aren't blocking heat registers or return-air vents.

If your furnace is due for regular servicing, fall is also a good time to book an inspection.

Take Care of a Few Things Indoors

A few quick checks inside can help prepare your home for the season ahead.

1) Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check your humidifier and replace batteries, filters or pads as needed.

2) If you have a fireplace, make sure it's clean and ready for those first cozy nights in.

Prepare Your Yard & Garage

1) Finish up your seasonal yard work, clear away leaves and clean up garden beds. If you have an underground irrigation system, make sure it's properly winterized before temperatures drop below freezing.

2) In the garage, bring your winter essentials to the front. Make sure your snow shovel, ice melt and snowblower are ready before the first snowfall, because in Canada, you never quite know when that will be.

Ready for the Season Ahead

A little preparation now can help your home stay comfortable and cared for throughout the colder months.

Once everything is checked off, there's only one thing left to do: turn on the fireplace, grab a blanket and enjoy the comforts of home.