Atlas Butler’s Ultimate Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

As the season changes and the temperature starts to dip, your home needs to be ready to keep you warm and safe. Whether it's prepping your furnace or winterizing your outdoor space, a little maintenance now can save you big headaches later.

Follow our checklist below to ensure you stay warm and safe all fall!

Indoor Maintenance

✅ Schedule Your Furnace Check-Up
A well-maintained furnace is crucial for keeping your home warm, efficient, and safe. Having a professional technician check your system each fall ensures it's working at peak performance and can prevent breakdowns during the coldest months.

Pro Tip: If you're a Comfort Club member, your annual furnace tune-up is already included!

✅ Replace Furnace Filters
Dirty filters make your furnace work harder, leading to higher energy bills and poor air quality. During peak use, it is best to replace the filter every one to three months, depending on the filter size and the number of people and pets in the home.

Pro Tip: Set a calendar reminder to check your filters monthly!

✅ Test Your Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is functioning properly before chilly winter temperatures hit. A faulty thermostat can prevent your home from reaching the desired temperature or, worse, waste energy. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to save on heating costs!

✅ Check for Drafts Around Doors and Windows
Drafty doors and windows can let warm air out and cold air in, causing your furnace to work overtime. Sealing drafts can improve energy efficiency and help keep your home warmer.

Pro Tip: Weatherstripping or a draft snake can fix small drafts easily!

✅ Inspect Your Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Your heating system, especially if it’s gas-powered, can be at risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Ensure your detectors are functioning, and replace the batteries before the season gets busy.

✅ Reverse Ceiling Fans
Switching your ceiling fans to run clockwise at a low speed helps push warm air down from the ceiling, keeping your rooms cozier without extra strain on your furnace.

Pro Tip: This small adjustment can make a big difference in rooms with high ceilings.

Outdoor Maintenance

✅ Winterize Your Outdoor Faucets
Freezing temperatures can cause outdoor pipes to burst, leading to costly water damage. To prevent this, drain and disconnect hoses, and shut off water to outdoor faucets before temperatures drop, as water can freeze in exterior pipes.

Pro Tip: Consider installing faucet covers for extra protection.

✅ Inspect and Clean Gutters
Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which can freeze and damage your roof or foundation. Ensure gutters and downspouts are free from leaves and debris so they can properly direct water away from your home.

Pro Tip: If you’re comfortable on a ladder, this is a quick DIY task. Otherwise, consider hiring a professional.

Plumbing Maintenance

✅ Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas like garages or basements are vulnerable to freezing, which can lead to costly repairs. Insulate these pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.

✅ Test Your Sump Pump
If you have a basement, ensure your sump pump works properly before winter. Melting snow can cause flooding, and a well-maintained sump pump can prevent water damage.

Pro Tip: Consider installing a battery backup for your sump pump in case of a power outage.

By tackling these tasks before the cold sets in, you'll keep your home running efficiently and avoid winter headaches. Atlas Butler’s expert technicians offer comprehensive furnace inspections to catch potential issues early, ensuring your system operates safely and efficiently. With regular maintenance, you'll enjoy lower energy bills, a cozy home all season long, and peace of mind knowing your furnace is in top shape.

Call Atlas Butler at 1-800-FURNACE or schedule your maintenance appointment online today.