Prep for Winter with Our Fall Maintenance Checklist

Your Home's End-of-Summer, Early-Fall Checklist

As the long, humid days of a Greenville summer begin to give way to crisp, cool autumn mornings, it’s the perfect time to give your home a little TLC. A little effort now can prevent big, expensive headaches later, all while making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient for the coming seasons.

This checklist is designed to help you prepare your home for the temperature swings and unpredictable weather that the Upstate is known for. Get ready to tackle these tasks and enjoy a cozy, worry-free fall!

1. Check Your HVAC and Change Filters

Your air conditioning system has been working overtime to keep you cool all summer. Now is the time to prepare it for a new season.

• Why it's important: A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently, saves you money on utility bills, and prevents breakdowns when you need it most.

• What to do: Have a professional service your HVAC system, and at the very least, replace your air filters. Experts recommend changing them every one to three months, especially with the high pollen count in the Upstate.

2. Inspect and Clean Gutters

With the changing colors of the trees, a cascade of leaves is sure to follow. Get ahead of the debris before it becomes a problem.

• Why it's important: Clogged gutters can cause water to back up, leading to roof damage, siding issues, and foundation problems.

• What to do: Clean out any leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters and downspouts. Use a hose to flush them and ensure water is flowing freely and directed away from your home's foundation. If you're not comfortable on a ladder, hire a professional.

3. Seal Doors and Windows

Drafts can make your home feel chilly and cause your heating system to work harder.

• Why it's important: Sealing air leaks around windows and doors can reduce heating energy use by 25–30%.

• What to do: Check for drafts by holding a hand or a lit candle near window and door frames. If you feel cool air, apply new weather stripping or caulk to seal the gaps.

4. Prepare Your Yard and Landscaping

The end of summer is a critical time for yard maintenance that will pay off in the spring.

• Why it's important: Proper fall lawn care helps your grass recover from the summer heat and establishes a strong root system for the winter.

• What to do: Rake and remove any fallen leaves. Consider aerating your lawn to allow nutrients to reach the roots and apply a fall fertilizer. Drain and store garden hoses to prevent them from freezing and cracking.

5. Check the Fireplace and Chimney

If you plan on enjoying a cozy fire this fall, it’s crucial to ensure your fireplace is in good working order.

• Why it's important: Creosote buildup and blockages can create a fire hazard and poor ventilation.

• What to do: Inspect your fireplace and chimney for any signs of damage or cracks. It's recommended to have a professional chimney sweep inspect and clean it annually, especially if you use it often.

6. Protect Your Outdoor Faucets

Even in Greenville, a hard freeze can happen and burst pipes can cause a lot of damage.

• Why it's important: Protecting outdoor faucets and pipes from freezing will prevent costly and messy plumbing issues.

• What to do: Disconnect all garden hoses, drain them, and store them away. Turn off the water supply to your outdoor faucets and drain the pipes to prevent any residual water from freezing.

By tackling these tasks now, you'll be well-prepared for the seasons ahead and ensure your home stays in great shape year-round. Happy fall, Greenville homeowners!