As the clocks fall back, homeowners across the North Shore and surrounding Massachusetts areas are gearing up for an extra hour of rest. But once you’ve enjoyed that well-deserved sleep, take advantage of the extra daylight to get your home in order before winter hits. The change of seasons is the perfect time to knock out some essential maintenance tasks that will keep your home safe, efficient, and comfortable all winter long.
How to Prepare Your Home for Colder Days Ahead
Here’s your ultimate “fall back” home checklist from the pros at Maffei Services. It’s a quick and easy way to prepare your home for colder days ahead.
Check Your Detectors
A non-working detector is more than inconvenient, it’s dangerous. Test all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace the batteries while you’re at it. These simple devices save lives, and winter is when you rely on your heating system most. Make sure you have one on every floor and near every sleeping area.
Remove Window Screens
Before winter weather sets in, take down and clean your window screens. Dirt, pollen, and even the occasional creepy-crawler can collect on them through the summer. Wash and dry them before storing in a safe, dry place until spring. This also gives you a chance to inspect your windows for cracks or drafts.
Change Air Filters
Dirty HVAC filters force your system to work harder, wasting energy and money. Replace your air filters now for cleaner air and a more efficient heating system. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to prepare your home for winter comfort. If you’re unsure which filter is right, Maffei Services can help you find and install the correct one.
De-Lint the Dryer Vent
Over time, lint builds up not only in the lint trap but also in the vent hose and ductwork. This buildup restricts airflow, strains your dryer, and creates a major fire hazard. Unplug the dryer, disconnect the vent, and carefully clean out the hose and the vent outlet. Doing this once or twice a year helps your dryer run more efficiently and safely.
Swap Out Light Bulbs
The days are shorter, and you’ll be relying more on indoor and outdoor lighting. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrading to LED options. LEDs last longer, use less energy, and give off less heat. For outdoor lighting, check that fixtures are secure and bright enough to keep walkways and porches well-lit through the darker months.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Your ceiling fans can help keep your home warm if they’re spinning in the right direction. Switch the blades to run clockwise in the winter. This pushes warm air down from the ceiling, improving circulation and keeping rooms more comfortable without overworking your furnace.
Clean Out Gutters
Falling leaves and debris can quickly clog your gutters, causing water to back up and damage your roof or foundation. Scoop out leaves and rinse gutters thoroughly with a hose. Ensure downspouts are clear and direct water away from your home. Doing this now can prevent costly water damage later in the season.
Scrub Showerheads
Hard water buildup and mildew can clog showerheads and reduce water flow. A quick soak in a mixture of vinegar and water works like magic. Fill a small bag with the solution, secure it around the showerhead, and leave it overnight. Wipe it clean in the morning for a fresh, steady stream.
Book Your Annual Heating System Check
Your heating system has been idle for months, and the last thing you want is a breakdown when the first cold snap hits. Schedule a professional heating system check with Maffei Services to ensure your furnace or boiler is ready for winter. Regular maintenance keeps your system running safely, extends its life, and helps prevent expensive emergency repairs.
Clear Heating Vents
Blocked vents can cause uneven heating and reduce your system’s efficiency. Move furniture, rugs, and decorations away from vents and baseboard heaters. Keeping air flowing freely throughout your home will improve comfort and save energy all season long.
Reset Your Thermostat
If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, update your schedule to match your fall and winter routine. Lowering the temperature a few degrees while you’re asleep or away can save you money (up to $180 per year, according to EnergyStar.gov). Maffei Services also installs smart thermostats for homeowners looking to improve comfort and efficiency.
Winterize Your Plumbing
Before freezing temperatures arrive, protect your home’s plumbing. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, shut off exterior water valves, and insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces like garages or basements. Taking these steps helps prevent burst pipes and water damage when the temperatures drop.
These Small Tasks Add Up to Big Savings and Safety All Winter Long
The time change is the perfect reminder to give your home a quick checkup. These small tasks add up to big savings and safety all winter long. From HVAC maintenance to plumbing winterization, Maffei Services is here to help homeowners across the North Shore, MA, and surrounding areas stay comfortable and protected through every season. Contact Maffei Services today to schedule your heating system check or plumbing inspection before winter hits.
