September Home Maintenance Checklist

As summer winds down and cooler days approach, it’s time to get your home ready for the change in seasons. September is the perfect time to tackle some important maintenance tasks that will help keep your home in top shape. From protecting your home against critters to ensuring your HVAC system is ready for fall, here’s your go-to September Maintenance Checklist.

One of the simplest but most effective things you can do is change your air filters. With summer behind us, your air filters have likely collected dust, pollen, and other allergens. Swapping them out will improve air quality and help your HVAC system run more efficiently. Aim to replace filters every 1-3 months.

As temperatures drop, little critters like to find cozy spots to hide. Walk around your home and check for gaps, holes, or openings where mice, squirrels, or insects could sneak in. Look around windows, doors, and your foundation, and seal up any potential entry points.

After summer storms and falling leaves, your gutters are probably in need of some attention. Make sure to clear out the gutters to prevent clogging, which can lead to water damage. Clean gutters will help direct rainwater away from your home’s foundation, protecting it from flooding.

Your home’s siding can take a beating during the summer months. Check for any cracks, damage, or wear and tear, then inspect and clean the siding. A good cleaning can get rid of dirt, mildew, and grime, and will also give you a chance to spot any areas that might need repairs before winter.

Don’t forget about your windows! Inspect the windows for any cracks, broken seals, or drafts. Fixing these issues now can help you save on heating costs later. While you’re at it, give them a good cleaning inside and out to let in more natural light.

If you have any leaky faucets in your home, now’s the time to fix them. A leaky faucet isn’t just annoying, it can also waste water and increase your bill. Tightening connections or replacing worn-out washers can usually do the trick.

Now that summer cookouts are winding down, take a moment to give your fridge a deep clean. Remove all food, wipe down shelves, and disinfect surfaces. Deep cleaning the refrigerator will not only keep things fresh but also help it run more efficiently.

You don’t want to wait until it’s cold to find out there’s a problem with your heating system. Schedule HVAC maintenance now to ensure everything is running smoothly. A professional technician can inspect your system, clean components, and make any necessary repairs before the chilly weather hits.

Safety first! Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working properly. Replace batteries as needed, and consider upgrading older detectors to newer models with longer-lasting batteries. It’s a quick task that can save lives.

By following this September Maintenance Checklist, you’ll be setting your home up for success as we transition into fall. Tackling these small tasks now can prevent bigger (and more expensive) problems down the line, keeping your home in great shape for the months ahead.