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Maintenance Calendar 2026

Prepare & Protect,
Fall Checklist

Get your home winter-ready before the first frost arrives. Our expert 2026 checklist covers heating system prep, gutter cleaning, weatherproofing, and essential safety checks.

Beautiful home surrounded by fall foliage
22+ Points
Fall Protection 2026

Heating & Winterization

Furnace Tune-Up

Schedule a professional furnace inspection before the heating season begins to ensure safe and efficient operation.

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Safety First
A tune-up includes checking the heat exchanger for cracks (CO risk), cleaning burners, and testing safety controls. Replace filters monthly during heating season.
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Chimney & Fireplace

Creosote buildup is a leading cause of chimney fires. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned before the first fire.

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Annual Inspection
Clean when creosote is 1/8 inch thick. Check damper operation and ensure the flue is clear of animal nests. Test CO detectors nearby.
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Pipe Insulation

Prevent frozen and burst pipes by insulating exposed plumbing in unheated areas before temperatures drop.

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Freeze Prevention
Focus on pipes in garages, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. Use foam pipe sleeves or heat tape. Know where your main shutoff valve is located.
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Outdoor Faucets

Disconnect hoses and winterize exterior faucets to prevent ice damage that can burst pipes inside walls.

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Winterization Steps
Disconnect and drain hoses. Close interior shutoff valves and open exterior spigots to drain. Install insulated faucet covers for added protection.
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Heating Schedule

Program your thermostat for cooler temperatures when away or sleeping to reduce heating costs significantly.

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Energy Savings
Set to 68°F when home, 60-62°F when away or sleeping. Each degree lower saves about 3% on heating bills over 24 hours.
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Radiators & Vents

Ensure heating elements are clean and unobstructed for maximum efficiency when the heating season begins.

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Efficiency Tips
Bleed radiators to remove trapped air. Vacuum dust from baseboard heaters. Keep furniture 3 feet from heating sources for proper airflow.
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Exterior & Drainage

Gutter Cleaning

Fall leaves clog gutters quickly. Clean them thoroughly to prevent ice dams and water damage during winter.

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Ice Dam Prevention
Clean after most leaves have fallen. Ensure downspouts extend 6+ feet from foundation. Consider gutter guards if cleaning is difficult.
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Roof Inspection

Address any roofing issues before winter storms arrive. Small repairs now prevent major damage later.

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What to Check
Look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles. Check flashings around chimneys and vents. Remove debris and moss buildup from the roof surface.
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Weatherstripping

Seal gaps around doors and windows to prevent cold drafts and reduce heating costs throughout winter.

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The Dollar Bill Test
Close a door on a dollar bill—if it slides out easily, replace the weatherstripping. Check door sweeps and window seals for wear and gaps.
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Siding & Trim

Inspect siding for damage and gaps that could allow moisture intrusion or pest entry during winter months.

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Exterior Check
Look for cracks, holes, or loose boards. Caulk gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations. Touch up paint to protect wood from moisture.
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Driveway & Walkways

Seal cracks in concrete and asphalt before winter. Water that freezes in cracks causes them to expand dramatically.

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Crack Repair
Fill cracks with appropriate sealant (concrete caulk or asphalt filler). Apply asphalt sealer before temperatures drop below 50°F for proper curing.
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Deck Winterization

Prepare your deck for harsh winter conditions by cleaning, sealing, and storing outdoor furniture properly.

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Protection Steps
Clear leaves and debris between boards. Apply water-repellent sealer if water no longer beads. Store or cover furniture to prevent snow damage.
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Safety & Yard Care

Smoke & CO Detectors

Test all detectors and replace batteries before heating season when carbon monoxide risks increase significantly.

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Critical Safety
Replace batteries even if they work—twice yearly is recommended. Replace entire units older than 10 years. Test monthly during heating season.
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Winter Emergency Kit

Update your emergency supplies for winter-specific hazards like power outages and being snowed in.

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Winter Essentials
Add extra blankets, hand warmers, rock salt, and a snow shovel. Stock non-perishable food and water. Keep car emergency kit updated too.
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Fall Lawn Care

Prepare your lawn for winter dormancy with proper feeding, aeration, and final mowing techniques.

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Winter Prep
Apply winterizer fertilizer high in potassium. Aerate compacted soil. Lower mower blade for final cut to prevent snow mold. Rake leaves to prevent suffocation.
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Tree & Shrub Care

Trim dead branches that could break under ice and snow weight, damaging your home or vehicles.

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Storm Protection
Remove dead, diseased, or overhanging branches. Wrap young trees to prevent frost cracks. Tie up columnar evergreens to prevent snow damage.
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Sprinkler System

Winterize your irrigation system to prevent frozen lines and expensive repairs when spring arrives.

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Blow-Out Method
Shut off water supply to system. Use compressed air to blow out lines (or hire a pro). Insulate the backflow preventer and any exposed components.
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Equipment Storage

Properly store summer equipment and prepare winter tools like snow blowers for the coming season.

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Seasonal Swap
Add fuel stabilizer to lawn mower before storage. Service snow blower now—check oil, belts, and spark plug. Stock up on ice melt and shovels.
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Pro Insight

Is Your Heating System Ready for Winter?

A cracked heat exchanger is invisible but can leak deadly carbon monoxide into your home. Fall is the perfect time to schedule a professional furnace inspection before you need to rely on your heating system daily. Don't wait until the first cold snap when HVAC companies are overwhelmed.

Schedule Your Inspection