As temperatures drop in November, it's the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for the winter season. Preparing now can help prevent costly repairs and keep your home cozy and efficient during the colder months. Here’s a checklist of essential home maintenance tasks to tackle this November.

1. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

Leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to water overflow and possible foundation issues or roof damage. Clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris, and check for any signs of damage. Make sure downspouts direct water at least five feet away from the foundation to prevent flooding.

 

2. Seal Drafts and Check Insulation

Drafts can make heating less efficient and increase energy bills. Inspect doors and windows for any gaps. Seal small cracks with caulk and install weather stripping around doors. Adding insulation to the attic can also make a big difference in maintaining warmth.

 

3. Have Your Heating System Serviced

Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and ensures your system runs efficiently. Schedule a professional to inspect and tune up your furnace, heat pump, or boiler. Also, change or clean filters to maintain good airflow and indoor air quality.

 

4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

The risk of house fires increases in winter, and heating systems can produce carbon monoxide. Replace batteries in smoke and CO detectors and test each one to ensure it’s functioning properly. These devices are critical in keeping your household safe, especially in the colder months when they’re more likely to be needed.

 

5. Drain & Store Garden Hoses

Water left in hoses can freeze, expand, and cause hoses or pipes to crack. Disconnect and drain all hoses, then store them indoors or in a shed. Shut off exterior water spigots if possible to prevent freezing.

 

6. Inspect the Roof and Chimney

Roof damage or chimney issues can lead to leaks or drafts, impacting energy efficiency and home comfort. Check for missing, cracked, or loose shingles. If you have a fireplace, schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning to ensure it’s safe to use. A professional inspection is recommended if you’re unsure.

 

7. Check Weatherproofing on Doors and Windows

Gaps or broken seals around windows and doors are the biggest culprits for lost heat. Apply weatherstripping to areas where you feel drafts. If any seals or weatherproofing are damaged, replace them to reduce heat loss.

 

8. Prepare for Snow Removal

Although Middle Tennessee does not get a lot of snow on average, planning ahead can save time and hassle when the first snowfall hits. Stock up on ice melt, vehicle scrapers and deicer as this will help avoid scrambling and worrying about items being out of stock when snow arrives. (Snow blowers and snow shovels aren't typically used by many Middle Tennesseans but they do come in handy during the few snowstorms we might get).

 

9. Reverse Ceiling Fans

A clockwise fan direction helps push warm air down, making rooms feel warmer. Change the direction of your ceiling fans to clockwise at a low speed. This small adjustment can make a big difference in comfort during the winter months.

 

10. Inspect Outdoor Lighting

With shorter days and longer nights, adequate outdoor lighting improves safety and security. Check outdoor light fixtures and replace any burned-out bulbs. Consider adding additional lighting where needed to brighten walkways and entryways.

 

 

By completing these home maintenance tasks in November, you’re setting yourself up for a warmer, safer, and more efficient winter. A little prep now can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home cozy all season long!