Fall · Sep–Nov

Fall home maintenance checklist

Fall is the season that matters most. A few hours before the first freeze protects your pipes, gets the heat running and keeps the leaves out of the gutters. The weekend project planner can put the bigger jobs in order with one shopping list.

Disconnecting a garden hose from an outdoor spigot among fallen autumn leaves
Disconnect hoses before the first freeze so the spigot can drain.
A house in fall with leaves being cleared from the gutters, a garden hose disconnected from the outdoor faucet before the freeze, the furnace being tested with a new filter, and weatherstripping around the front door.
Fall jobs: clean the gutters (1), disconnect the hose before the freeze (2), test the heat and change the filter (3), and seal drafty doors (4).
12jobs
9rated easy
12how-to guides

The fall checklist

Tick jobs off as you go. Each one links to a guide with pictures and steps.

Timing suits most US climates. In mild areas, cold-weather jobs can wait a few weeks; in cold ones, start early.

Fall questions

When should I winterize my outdoor faucets?

Before the first hard freeze. Disconnect hoses and shut off and drain any faucet that has an indoor shutoff.

Should I get a furnace tune-up every fall?

Many manufacturers recommend yearly service. At the least, change the filter and run the heat once before you need it.

Why does my heat smell when I first turn it on?

Dust burns off the furnace after sitting all summer. It should fade within an hour or so.

Other seasons

SpringMar–MaySummerJun–AugWinterDec–FebWhole yearWith reminders