Do you feel it? That strong urge to grab a pumpkin spice latte (or pro tip pumpkin spice cold brew)? Are you getting out your best apple picking outfit? It can only mean one thing – it’s September, baby!
No offense to Miss Rhode Island, Cheryl Fraiser, but September is the perfect date because the weather is “not too hot, not too cold, all you need is a light jacket.” It also makes it the best time to do some home maintenance.
That’s why we ‘ve put together this September home maintenance checklist – to help get your home in shape for winter’s cold months.
1. Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Don’t @ me. I know this is on your monthly home maintenance plan, but we could all use a reminder to run a safety check on all of our smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Plus, number one is supposed to be easy.
Homeowner Tip: If you’re anything like me (Content Writer Megan), a checklist can seem a bit daunting, so I like to put the easier things at the top of the list and get those done quickly! Plus, the beginning of September can be really busy with the kids going back to school and all the celebrating because the kids are back in school. If you’re not like me (which is cool, we can still be friends), then start at the bottom of the list and do a fun countdown.
2. Check your window seals
Take a nice stroll around your home and visually check your window seals. If you can see daylight or gaps, your window seals need to be replaced, or you need to add caulk.
3. Inspect walkways and driveways for cracks
On your leisurely stroll around your home, check your walkways and driveways for cracks. If you find any, venture down to your local hardware store and purchase a crack filler that is right for your driveway or walkway material.
If you stumble on a crack that is over a ¼” wide, then you may want to call in a professional.
4. Call in a professional chimney sweep
September is a great time to get your chimney(ies) swept, and you beat the crowds and may even get some deals. You also have the security of knowing that the next time you start a fire in the fireplace, your family will be safe and toasty.
While you are thinking about your chimney, do you have a chimney cap? If not, you may want to add one. These metal caps help keep unwanted items from coming down your chimney, think birds and water. Most chimney sweeps will be able to add one for you.
If you need a chimney sweep and don’t know who to call, our vipHomeLink members can use the Find a Pro feature in the app! If you haven’t downloaded the app yet, get it today from Google Play and the App Store.
5. Check your home for leaks
Simply turn on the water and turn it off. Are there any drips? No, you are in the clear (high five). If you answered yes, let’s fix it before it becomes a bigger problem. And the fix could be as simple as changing out a faucet washer.
If you’re not sure of the source of the issue, tag in a professional plumber.
6. Swap out lighter bedding, rugs, and curtains
This may seem like an odd thing to have on a September home maintenance checklist, but the benefits are twofold. One, you get a home that looks cozy and ready for fall, and having warmer blankets, rugs, and curtains can save you money on your energy bill. You won’t have to turn the heat on as early. Bonus, it gives you another valid reason to make a Home Goods or Target run.
Get additional money- and energy-saving tips in Winter Is Coming: 10 Ways to Cut Your Utility Bill!
7. Change your air filters and call in an HVAC professional
First, changing your air filters can be a monthly task depending on your system’s needs, but just in case you need a reminder, we thought we’d add it to this blog. Second, changing your air filter is pretty easy. Just follow these simple steps:
- Turn the unit off.
- Let it cool.
- Remove the access panel.
- Take out the old filter.
- Insert the new one. (Arrow on the filter must point in the direction of the air flow.)
- Close the panel.
- Turn the unit back on.
Also, call a professional to service your HVAC this month, to get it ready for winter. When that temperature drops, you want to be confident that your heater will be there for you like a nice warm hug.
vipHomeLink, your home maintenance schedule app, also helps you remember these tasks with personalized reminders and recommendations for your home!
8. Take care of your lawn equipment
Hopefully you will soon be able to put your lawnmower, weed whacker, and other lawn equipment to bed for a long winter’s nap, but before you do that, they need a little TLC. Replace your oil, change out air filters, and add gas mixed with a preservative in it. Also, check out the owner’s manual for any special instructions your unit might need, then complete them as part of your September home maintenance checklist.
9. Remove window AC units
This task on your September home maintenance checklist requires some heavy lifting. (Told you number nine wouldn’t be easy.) But removing window AC units is the way to go to keep your utility bills lower and prevent your home from being burglarized. Thieves can easily push in those units and have access to all your stuff. Yuck!
Get more home safety tips in ‘Tis the Season to Secure Your Home from Burglars and Porch Pirates.
Bonus Tip: Download the vipHomeLink app
We know how difficult it is to know what to do and when to do it around the home. That’s why we help to simplify homeownership through our home management app, which provides homeowners with personalized reminders for home tasks. From changing your air filters regularly to vacuuming your dryer vent, we’ve got you covered.
Save money and time, and gain peace of mind with vipHomeLink! Download the app today!
Advertiser Disclosure:
Any offers that appear on the vipHomeLink site, in our content, vipTIPs or other recommendations are for the convenience and benefit of our members. vipHomeLink may receive compensation from any purchases that are made by our members. If you elect to use or purchase products or services from third parties, you are subject to the third parties’ policies with respect to your information and to their terms and conditions. vipHomeLink does not warrant or guarantee any third-party products or services advertised on or linked from our site.
