Now that you have the exterior of your home ready for the colder Fall and Winter weather, it’s time to turn your attention to the interior of your home. The goal is to stay safe, dry and warm.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist – Interior

Furnace & Filters

Schedule a furnace inspection with a qualified heating and cooling professional before the winter rush. Make sure all the ducts are clear, clean, and properly sealed and that the furnace filters are changed. Check that the thermostat is working.

Chimney and Wood-burning Fireplace or Stove

If you have and use a wood-burning fireplace or stove, then be sure get it inspected and cleaned by a licensed chimney professional at least once a year to reduce a chance of a chimney fire.

Gas Fireplace

Check your gas fireplace to see that the pilot light is on, the ceramic logs, liners and burners are in good condition, and the vents are clear.  If necessary, hire a certified gas technician to give the entire unit a thorough inspection.

Ceiling Fans

If you have ceiling fans, then change their  direction to run clockwise at a low speed to pull the warm air up to the ceiling and then out toward and down the walls.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Smoke Alarms

Now is the time to check all the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home.  Test them once a month to be sure they are working and replace the batteries when clocks are changed at the end of Daylight Savings Time.

Drafts around windows and doors

Spot-check around windows and doors for drafts.  Look for daylight coming through or cold air.  Use caulking, weather-stripping or draft-stoppers to help keep your home warm.

Basement

Thoroughly investigate the entire basement of your home, looking for any indication of moisture or drafts.  Watch for signs of bubbling paint or dark marks on the walls that may indicate leaks or mold.  Check to make sure that any drains in the floor are working properly.  Call if a professional is needed.

Fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for colder, wetter weather. Working your way through our Fall Home Maintenance Checklist can help you make sure you’ve done what you can to keep you and your family warm, dry, and safe in the months ahead.

Want a professional home inspector to create your home’s maintenance checklist instead? We can help! Call The Sterling Home Inspection Group at (253) 841-1128 to schedule an Exterior Maintenance Inspection OR a complete Home Inspection today!