MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Cooler fall weather is on the way, making September a useful time for Mitchell homeowners to work through seasonal maintenance projects before winter conditions arrive.
Taking care of smaller projects now can also help residents identify repairs that may require a contractor or additional time to complete. Here are several things homeowners can put on their fall checklist.
Check the Heating System
Test the home’s heating system before it is needed every day. Homeowners can inspect furnace filters and replace dirty filters according to manufacturer recommendations. Checking the thermostat and scheduling professional maintenance when necessary can also help identify problems before colder weather settles in.
Prepare Outdoor Faucets and Plumbing
Outdoor plumbing should get attention as temperatures begin to decline. Garden hoses can be disconnected when they are no longer needed, while exterior faucets and exposed plumbing should be inspected for leaks or damage. Residents with irrigation systems should follow manufacturer recommendations for seasonal shutdown and winterization.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves and other debris can collect in gutters and interfere with drainage. Homeowners can clean gutters and make sure downspouts are clear so rainwater and melting precipitation can drain away from the house. Any work requiring access to a roof or high ladder should be handled with appropriate precautions or by a qualified professional.
Inspect the Home’s Exterior
Walk around the property and look for visible problems with the roof, siding, windows and exterior doors. Damaged materials, deteriorated seals and gaps around doors or windows may need attention before colder temperatures and winter precipitation arrive.
Finish Fall Yard Cleanup
September is also a good time to begin putting away outdoor equipment and completing seasonal yard work. Patio furniture, garden equipment and other items that will not be used during winter can be cleaned and stored according to manufacturer recommendations.
Look for Damaged Tree Branches
Property owners can visually inspect trees for damaged, broken or unstable branches, particularly those near homes, garages and other structures. Residents should not attempt work near utility lines and should contact the appropriate utility or a qualified tree professional when necessary.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Fall maintenance should include basic household safety equipment. Residents can test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries or units when required by manufacturer instructions. Homes with fuel-burning heating equipment should have properly functioning carbon monoxide alarms.
Check Doors and Windows
Inspect exterior doors and windows for noticeable gaps or damaged weatherstripping. Addressing areas where outside air can enter the home can improve comfort as temperatures fall. Residents can replace worn weatherstripping or arrange repairs when windows or doors are damaged.
Store and Inspect Seasonal Equipment
Before putting lawn mowers, garden tools and other warm-weather equipment away, clean and inspect them. Follow manufacturer directions for long-term or winter storage. This is also an opportunity to bring winter equipment out of storage and check whether it needs maintenance.
Make a Winter Preparation List
Homeowners do not have to complete every project in one weekend. Creating a checklist in September allows residents to spread maintenance across several weeks and identify projects that require professional help before colder weather arrives.
Getting started early can make the transition from fall to winter easier and give Mitchell homeowners more time to address problems before South Dakota’s coldest weather arrives.