Fall Into Action: Your Essential Home Checklist

Just like we tackled summer to-dos, we’re back with your no-stress, get-it-done guide to fall home maintenance. Let’s roll up our sleeves and keep your home cozy, safe, and energy-efficient all season long.

1. Heating and HVAC Tune-Up

Don’t get caught in the cold.

Schedule a professional HVAC check-up to ensure your heating system is ready for the months ahead.

Additionally, don’t neglect these tasks that can save you money on energy bills and help keep you safe and comfortable all season long:

• Replace air filters (monthly or every 3 months depending on your system).
• Inspect air ducts for leaks. If you see excessive dust and lint, schedule air duct cleaning service.
• Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to keep things comfy and efficient.

Pro tip: If your furnace or heat pump is older than 15 years, it might be time to explore an upgrade before it gives out mid-winter.

2. Roof and Gutter Check

Protect your home from top to bottom.

• Inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles and flashing. Have a reputable roofing contractor fix any problems.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages and ice dams once snow arrives.
• Trim back any tree branches that are too close to your roof.

Pro tip: Install gutter guards to save yourself the hassle of frequent clean-outs.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

Keep the warm air in and the drafts out.

Check for gaps, cracks, or worn weatherstripping around windows and doors. Caulking and sealing now can save big on your heating bill.

Pro tip: Use a candle or incense stick to detect airflow around the frames.

4. Winterize Outdoor Spaces

Get outdoor areas ready to hibernate.

• Drain and store garden hoses.
• Cover exterior faucets to avoid freezing.
• Store patio furniture or cover it securely.
• Clean and store gardening tools.

Pro tip: Spread mulch around plants to insulate roots during the colder months.

5. Tune Up Your Snowblower Now

Servicing your snowblower early before the first storm hits is always a smart move.

Here’s a video from our experts that shows you how to get your snowblower ready for winter:

If you don’t want to do all that work yourself, schedule professional snowblower maintenance and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your house to whip your snowblower into top shape.

Pro tip: Be sure to have plenty of extra snowblower shear pins handy for winter so that your snow clearing won’t be interrupted.

6. Safety First

Fall is fire safety season.

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries.
• Clean your chimney if you have a fireplace and stock up on firewood if needed.
• It’s also a good time to inspect your fire extinguisher.

Pro tip: Add a reminder to check your detectors when daylight saving time ends.

7. Energy Efficiency Boost

Make your home smarter this fall.

Consider:

• Adding insulation to your attic.
• Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances.
• Scheduling a home energy audit.

Pro tip: Use heavy curtains in drafty rooms to keep heat in and cold out.

8. Indoor Prep

Create a cozy indoor retreat.

• Clean and reverse ceiling fans to push warm air downward.
• Deep-clean rugs and carpets before windows are shut tight.
• Rotate mattresses and refresh bedding for the season.

Pro tip: Bring in seasonal scents like cinnamon, clove, and vanilla for a cozy fall vibe.

9. Prepare for Holiday Cooking

Get ready for the upcoming holiday cooking season now.

• Clean your oven, cooktop and refrigerator so holiday guests will admire your kitchen.
• Clean the dishwasher filters so your dishes will come out sparkly clean for every holiday meal.
• Schedule professional kitchen appliance maintenance to get your fridge, stove and dishwasher in top shape and help avoid unexpected breakdowns in the middle of the holidays.

Pro tip: Annual professional maintenance also helps keep your appliances lasting longer.

Relax and Enjoy

With this fall checklist, you’re not just getting your home ready for cooler weather—you’re protecting your investment and creating a comfortable, safe space for your family.

Now you can kick back in your favorite rocking chair or recliner and enjoy the cooler fall weather with ease.