The Ultimate Fall Home Checklist

The Ultimate Fall Home Checklist: 10
Things to Do Before Winter

Fall in Minnesota means crisp mornings, colorful leaves, and the reminder that winter isn’t far behind.
Taking time now to prepare your home can save money, prevent mid-winter headaches, and keep your
family warm and safe all season long. Here’s a simple checklist to help you get ahead of the cold:

1. Clean Gutters & Downspouts:

Remove leaves, sticks, and debris to keep water flowing freely. Clogged gutters can cause ice dams
and water damage once temperatures drop. While you are up there, check for sagging sections or
leaks and take care of small repairs before snow arrives.

2. Inspect the Roof

Look for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or soft spots. Addressing these issues now is far easier
and less expensive than dealing with leaks under a blanket of snow. A small repair today can prevent
major damage tomorrow.

3. Seal Window and Doors

Drafts are energy drainers. Add caulk or weatherstripping where needed to seal leaks. For added
comfort, consider insulated window treatments from Graber or Hunter Douglas. Our in-house experts,
Nichole and Peyton, would be happy to help you explore stylish options that also improve efficiency.

4. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

Your heating system is about to work overtime. Replace furnace filters (we carry a wide range right here
at Fergus Home & Hardware) and schedule a professional tune-up to ensure efficiency, safety, and
peace of mind before the first freeze hits.

5. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

October is Fire Prevention Month, making it the perfect time to check your alarms. Replace batteries
and test each unit to ensure every level of your home has working detectors. With furnaces, fireplaces,
and space heaters in use, this simple step could save lives.

6. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Switch ceiling fans to rotate clockwise. This simple step helps push warm air back down into your living
spaces, reducing the strain on your furnace and keeping you more comfortable without touching the
thermostat.

7. Service Fireplaces & Chimneys

If you use a fireplace or wood stove, schedule a chimney cleaning and safety inspection now. Make
sure dampers work properly, clear out any debris, and stock up on firewood or pellets before the rush.

8. Prep Appliances

Give hardworking appliances a little TLC:

● Vacuum refrigerator coils for better efficiency and lower energy costs
● Clean out dryer vents to reduce fire risk and improve performance
● Check washer hoses for cracks, bulges, or leaks

Need professional help? Our Appliance Service Department is here for maintenance and repairs.

9. Drain Outdoor Faucets & Sprinklers

Shut off and drain outdoor water lines to prevent frozen, burst pipes. This can be one of winter's most
expensive surprises. Disconnect and store garden hoses inside, and consider installing faucet covers
for extra protection.

10. Stock Winter Essentials

Do not wait for the first snowstorm to scramble for ice melt, shovels, or a new snowblower. Our
hardware team is already setting up seasonal supplies, so you will be ready the moment winter makes
its entrance. Shopping early also means better selection and no last-minute stress.

Taking these steps now means fewer surprises in January and a warmer, safer, more comfortable
season ahead. At Fergus Home & Hardware, we are here to help you prepare for whatever winter
brings.