Fall Home Maintenance: Protect Your Home

Fall is a good time to give your home some extra attention. A few simple maintenance tasks can help prevent problems, protect your investment, and prepare your home for colder weather.

But even a well-maintained home can have an unexpected breakdown. That’s why it helps to think about both preventive maintenance and added protection.

 

 

Don’t wait for the first cold morning to discover a problem. Replace or clean your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, clear debris around outdoor equipment, and consider a professional inspection before temperatures drop.

Tip: Turn on your heat before you really need it. Listen for unusual noises, make sure vents are clear, and replace or clean the filter as recommended. For more seasonal HVAC maintenance tips, check out ENERGY STAR’s maintenance checklist.

 

 

Remove leaves and debris from gutters and make sure downspouts are directing water away from your home. Check the roof for visible damage and inspect caulk and weatherstripping around windows and doors. These small steps can help catch issues before they become bigger problems.

 

Tip: After it rains, check for pooling water near your foundation—a sign your downspouts may not be directing water far enough away.

 

 

Look under sinks and around toilets for leaks, inspect visible plumbing connections, and prepare outdoor faucets for freezing temperatures where needed.

 

Take a look at your water heater, too. Check for leaks, corrosion, or other signs it may need professional attention.

Tip: Use a dry paper towel around accessible connections under sinks to spot slow leaks you might not see—and make sure you know where the water shutoff is.

 

 

Your refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer, and other major appliances work hard every day. Follow manufacturer-recommended maintenance, inspect accessible hoses and connections, and pay attention to unusual sounds, leaks, or changes in performance.
Even with regular care, appliances don't last forever. A refrigerator that stops cooling or a dishwasher that suddenly quits can quickly turn into an inconvenient—and potentially costly—surprise.

Tip: Keep a quick list of the age and model numbers of your major appliances. It can save time when you need service or repairs.

 

 

Even with regular maintenance, home systems and appliances can break down. One more fall maintenance tip: have a plan for unexpected repairs before you need one.

 

Did you know? A home warranty isn’t just for when you buy a home. Whether you’ve lived there for a few months or many years, you can still add protection for covered systems and appliances.

 

Think about what that could mean at home: Your furnace stops working on a cold weekend, your water heater fails, or your refrigerator quits cooling before a family gathering. A home warranty can help make eligible repairs or replacements in moments like these more manageable.

 

HomePRO System and Appliance Warranties, available through First Mid Insurance Group, offer an option for added protection. If something covered breaks down, you can request service online or by phone from a qualified repair professional. Coverage may also include benefits you might not expect, such as removal of an old item and certain drywall repairs. And you don’t need maintenance records to purchase coverage.

 

Bonus tip: Take inventory of your major appliances and home systems. Knowing what you have can help you understand what may need attention—and what’s covered if you have, or are considering, a home warranty.

 

A little preparation now can make a big difference later—helping you care for your home and protect your investment.