I enjoy a well-made checklist. It helps me stay organized and focused, and there’s a satisfying feeling when I can mark an item as complete. Kiplinger’s updated fall and winter home maintenance checklist offers a practical set of tasks to help you winterize your home and reduce energy costs.
Kiplinger associate editor Pat Mertz Esswein highlights that the most important task is a heating system tune-up. Since your heating system will be in heavy use during the cold months, having it cleaned and tested ensures efficient, reliable operation. Expect to pay around $80–$100 for a basic tune-up. A technician will also check for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be life-saving.
Other recommended tasks include:
– Reverse your ceiling fans so they run clockwise at low speed in winter. This creates an updraft that pushes warm air trapped near the ceiling back down into the living space, which can improve comfort and potentially lower heating costs, especially in rooms with high ceilings.
– Prevent ice dams by having a home energy auditor or weatherization contractor inspect your attic and roofline for air leaks and insufficient insulation. Addressing these issues improves heat retention and reduces the risk of ice dam formation. (Note: in some years, certain energy-efficiency measures have qualified for tax incentives—check current guidance for any available credits.)
– Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, flashing issues, or other signs of wear that could lead to leaks during winter storms.
– Clean your gutters and downspouts so melting snow and rain can drain properly and won’t refreeze at the eaves, which contributes to ice dams.
– Have your lawn’s irrigation system professionally drained and winterized to prevent freeze damage.
– Clean and inspect your chimney. Hire a certified chimney sweep to remove creosote buildup and check the flue; inspections typically cost between $80 and $200 depending on location and the level of service required.
Following these seasonal maintenance steps helps protect your home, improves energy efficiency, and reduces the chance of costly repairs during winter. Prioritize the heating system tune-up and carbon monoxide check, then work through the rest of the list to ensure your home is prepared for colder weather.
Photo by svaldifari