10/29/2026
OCFD's Tip for Thursday October 29, 2026:
Frequently asked questions about fall home maintenance
Q: What home maintenance should be done in the fall?
A: Fall home maintenance often includes cleaning gutters and downspouts, inspecting the roof, sealing air leaks, protecting outdoor faucets, servicing the heating system and testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Other common fall home care tips include checking the fireplace or chimney, clearing leaves and preparing outdoor equipment for winter.
Q: What is the most important fall home maintenance task?
A: Some of the most important fall home maintenance tasks are cleaning gutters, inspecting the roof and making sure the heating system is ready for winter. These steps may help reduce the risk of water damage, heat loss and cold-weather system problems.
Q: When should outdoor faucets be winterized?
A: Outdoor faucets should generally be winterized in the fall before the first hard freeze. Disconnect hoses, shut off the water supply if possible and drain any remaining water to help reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
Q: Which fall home maintenance tasks can homeowners do themselves?
A: Many homeowners can handle basic fall home tips such as replacing furnace filters, testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, disconnecting hoses, sealing small air leaks and raking leaves. Tasks like HVAC service, chimney cleaning, roof repair and major tree trimming may be better left to a professional.