10 Things to Do to Get Your Home Ready for Fall

At a Glance:

• Switching to an energy-efficient heat pump can save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.
• Simple tasks like putting away window AC units and cleaning air filters can improve your home's efficiency.
• Prepping early, like scheduling fuel deliveries, can help you avoid higher costs and inconvenience during peak season.

Getting Your Home Ready for Fall

Homeownership is hard and can feel like a full-time job—there's always something on the to-do list. With fall just around the corner, it's time to start preparing your home for the upcoming cold months. Here are 10 ways to get your home fall-ready whether you have a furnace, boiler, air conditioner, or heat pump.

1. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Heat Pump

A heat pump is a versatile and energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home. Unlike traditional heating and cooling systems, heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate it, using far less energy. For more details on heat pumps vs furnaces, read this post. 

Heat pumps offer lower energy bills and reduced carbon emissions. Before the cold months hit, consider upgrading to a heat pump to keep your home comfortable while saving on utility costs.

For more tips on how to lower your energy bill, check out this article we recently published. 

2. Put Your Window Air Conditioning Unit Away

If you use a window AC unit during the summer, it's time to put it away. Leaving it in place during the fall and winter can lead to drafts and energy loss. Removing and properly storing your AC unit properly helps to seal up your windows and keep your home warmer without wasting energy.

3. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters

Dirty air filters can make your heating system work harder, leading to higher energy consumption and potential damage to the system. It's a good idea to replace or clean your air filters every 1-3 months, especially before the colder season kicks in. This simple task ensures your heating system runs efficiently and keeps your indoor air quality high.

4. Schedule Your Fuel Delivery

If your home relies on fuel oil or propane for heating, now is the time to schedule your fuel delivery. As temperatures drop, demand increases, and so do prices. By scheduling your delivery early, you can avoid the rush and ensure you have enough fuel to stay warm all season long.

5. Dust Around the House

Fall is a great time to give your home a thorough dusting. Clean off window ledges, blinds, side tables, and baseboards. Pay extra attention to areas that often get missed, like corners, door frames, and the tops of bookshelves. Dusting now will help keep your indoor air quality fresh as you start spending more time indoors.

6. Store Summer Decor

With fall in the air, it's time to swap out your summer decor for cozier items. Putting away summer-themed decorations clears up space and gives you room to bring out those warm, comforting fall touches. It also allows you to deep clean those spaces that have been hiding under summer decorations.

7. Clean Out Your Garage and Basement

Garages and basements are often neglected, making them susceptible to leaks, moisture, and pests. Take this time to declutter and clean these spaces. Remove items you no longer need, vacuum and mop the floors, and wipe down surfaces. Using a dehumidifier can help prevent mold and dampness before the cold weather sets in.

8. Clean Out Your Refrigerator

Start fresh this fall by cleaning out your refrigerator. Discard expired condiments and leftovers to make room for fall recipes and seasonal treats. A clean fridge operates more efficiently and helps reduce food waste. Remember to clean the refrigerator coils and top, as grime can gather in these spots and affect performance.

9. Deep Clean Your Oven

Fall is a busy time for cooking and baking. Prepare for the holiday season by deep cleaning your oven inside and out. A clean oven not only cooks food more evenly but also prevents unpleasant odors. Consider steam cleaning your oven to remove grease and grime without using harsh chemicals.

10. Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As you prepare to use your heating system more frequently, it's essential to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Replace batteries and test each unit to keep your home safe. It's a simple task that can have a significant impact on your family's safety.

Conclusion

Getting your home ready for fall doesn't have to be overwhelming. By tackling these tasks now, you can enjoy a cozy, efficient, and safe living space all season long. At Tetra, we know that homeownership can be a lot to manage, which is why we’re here to help with your heat pump installation from start to finish. Plus, every system installed by Tetra comes fully covered with 10 free years of repairs and maintenance. Ready to make your home more comfortable and efficient this fall? Schedule your free virtual estimate with Tetra today!