🍂 Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Vernon Homeowners

As the leaves change and the temperatures start to dip, fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for the colder months ahead. A little bit of preparation now can help prevent costly surprises once winter sets in — and keep your home cozy, efficient, and protected through the season.

Here’s a handy fall maintenance checklist for North Okanagan homeowners:

1. 🔥 Service Your Heating System

Before the cold really hits, schedule a professional service for your furnace or heat pump to make sure it’s running efficiently. Change or clean filters, check thermostats, and make sure your vents are clear. If you use a wood stove or fireplace, have the chimney inspected and cleaned.

2. 💧 Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can cause major damage. Drain and store garden hoses, shut off outdoor water lines, and insulate any exposed plumbing in unheated areas like crawl spaces, basements, or garages.

3. 🏠 Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Clear out fallen leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water damage. While you’re at it, take a quick look at your roof — replace missing shingles, seal any gaps, and ensure flashing is secure to keep water out.

4. 🪟 Seal Up Drafts

Check doors and windows for gaps or worn weather stripping. A simple caulking or weather seal can make a big difference in keeping warm air in and cold air out, which helps reduce heating costs.

5. 🌳 Tidy Up Your Yard

Trim back trees and shrubs that are close to your house or roof — heavy snow and wind can cause branches to break. Rake leaves, aerate your lawn if needed, and store outdoor furniture or cover it for the season.

6. 🧯 Check Safety Devices

Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make sure fire extinguishers are up to date. Fall is also a good time to review your household emergency plan.