We’ve had a beautiful stretch of weather here in Massachusetts for November! However we can tell from the leaves on the ground that the Autumn season is winding down. So whether you have been in your home for 20 years or 2 months, now is a good time to prepare you home for the upcoming New England winter.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

• Clean gutters once all the leaves are down. Also make sure the downspouts are clear of leaves and debris.

• Test the sump pump - it was a very dry summer, so likely this hasn’t run since the spring if at all.

• Turn off and drain any outdoor water faucets. Drain the hoses & put them away.

• Schedule the annual heating system service!

• Turn off the central air condensers - most have a turn off switch outside or turn off the circuit breaker.

• Test any whole home or portable generators.

• Test the snow blower & have it serviced if necessary. While thinking about snow, maybe move the snow shovels and scrapers to a handy location.

• Have the chimney cleaned and have any gas fireplaces or firelogs serviced for safety. If you use a wood burning stove or fireplace, make sure it has been cleaned and you have wood ready for the upcoming cold months.

• Replace smoke detector batteries. Also if the smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are more than 7 years old, consider replacing them with 10-year battery sealed units for increased safety.

• Latch the interior windows and make sure any storm windows or doors are back in place.

Now is the time to take advantage of a warmer day to get all your outdoor chores done in preparation of winter!