Minnesota Fall Home Maintenance Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before Winter
Minnesota winters aren't exactly gentle on our homes!
Between freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and the constant freeze-thaw cycle, small problems can turn into expensive repairs.
The good news? A little fall maintenance can help prevent some of those problems.
Whether you own a townhome in Hugo, a rambler in Shoreview, a lake home near Lino Lakes, or a house anywhere in the Twin Cities, here are ten things worth checking before winter arrives.
And don't worry. Most won't take your whole weekend.
1. Check Your Furnace Filter
Let's start with one of the easiest home maintenance tasks.
A dirty furnace filter can restrict airflow and make your heating system work harder.
Check the filter size and replacement schedule recommended for your equipment. Some filters need changing much more often than others.
My favorite home hack:
Take a picture of your furnace filter's size and set up automatic deliveries!
Choose a delivery schedule based on the filter and your system's needs.
That way, you don't need to remember to pick one up every time it needs replacing.
If your furnace hasn't been serviced in a while, fall is also a good time to schedule an inspection with a qualified HVAC professional.
2. Disconnect Your Garden Hoses
This one is easy to forget.
Before freezing weather arrives:
Disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets.
Drain the hoses.
Store them for winter.
Follow the winter shutoff and draining instructions for your outdoor faucets.
Even frost-free faucets can have problems when hoses are left attached.
A few minutes of prevention may help you avoid an expensive plumbing repair.
3. Check Your Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves are beautiful—until they clog your gutters.
Blocked gutters can keep water from draining away from your home.
When temperatures drop, trapped water may freeze and add to your problems.
Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and direct water away from the house.
Safety tip: If this requires climbing a ladder or working near the roof, hire a qualified professional.
4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
This should be on everyone's fall checklist.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Check their age and replace them when required.
In Minnesota, homes are required to have working carbon monoxide alarms within ten feet of rooms used for sleeping.
If you aren't sure whether your alarms are placed correctly, now is a good time to check.
It's a small task that can make a big difference.
5. Look for Drafts Around Windows and Doors
Can you feel cold air coming through a closed window?
Check weatherstripping and door seals for gaps or damage.
Some leaks can be addressed with simple weatherstripping or caulk.
Before replacing windows or doors, find out whether a smaller repair can solve the problem.
That could save you a lot of money.
6. Make Sure Water Drains Away From Your House
Minnesota homeowners know that snow doesn't stay frozen forever.
When snow melts, that water needs somewhere to go.
Take a walk around your home and check for:
Soil that slopes toward the foundation.
Downspouts that empty near the house.
Low spots where water collects.
Blocked drainage paths.
Don't change major drainage features without checking for underground utilities, easements, or drainage rules.
You can learn more in my article on Minnesota property easements and what homeowners should know.
7. Check Your Fireplace or Chimney
If you use a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney and fireplace checked and cleaned as needed by a qualified professional before the heating season.
Creosote buildup, damaged chimney parts, and blocked vents can create serious safety concerns.
Gas fireplaces also need proper care. Follow the manufacturer's service instructions.
A cozy fire is wonderful. A preventable safety problem is not.
8. Give Your Dryer Vent Some Attention
When was the last time you checked the dryer vent?
Lint buildup can reduce airflow and create a fire hazard.
Clean your lint screen regularly and have the dryer exhaust duct checked and cleaned as needed.
If clothes are taking longer than usual to dry, poor vent airflow could be part of the problem.
Make sure the outdoor vent opens freely and isn't blocked.
9. Check Your Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, don't wait for spring snowmelt to find out it's not working.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for testing it.
Make sure the discharge line is clear and set up for freezing weather.
If you have a backup pump or battery, check that too.
If you're unsure how your system should be maintained, ask a qualified plumber.
10. Make a Winter Emergency Plan
Minnesota storms can bring heavy snow, power outages, and dangerous driving conditions.
It helps to prepare before you need anything.
A few smart things to have ready:
Flashlights and extra batteries.
A charged backup battery for your phone.
Basic emergency supplies.
A working snow shovel.
A plan for keeping walkways clear.
Contact information for trusted home service providers.
And one final reminder: Keep outdoor furnace, dryer, and other exhaust vents clear of snow and ice throughout winter.
Bonus Tip: Make Home Maintenance Easier to Remember
Here's something I recommend to homeowners, especially people who recently purchased a home.
Put recurring home maintenance tasks on your calendar.
Use phone reminders for things like:
Checking furnace filters.
Testing alarms.
Scheduling furnace service.
Cleaning the dryer vent.
Checking sump pump operation.
If a product or service can be scheduled automatically, even better.
Homeownership involves enough details. You don't need to keep every maintenance task in your head.
And if your house starts making strange sounds as the weather changes, take a look at my article on common house noises Minnesota homeowners should know.
Small Tasks Now Can Prevent Bigger Problems Later
Your home is probably one of your largest financial assets.
Taking care of it protects more than your comfort. It also helps protect its condition and future value.
You don't need to tackle every task in one day.
Start with the simple things, bring in qualified professionals when needed, and enjoy knowing you've taken steps to get ready for another Minnesota winter.
Have a Homeownership Question?
I'm Sarah Marrinan, a Minnesota REALTOR® and Lifestyle Real Estate Advisor with Keller Williams Premier Realty.
I help people buy and sell homes throughout the Twin Cities, but I also love helping homeowners make smart decisions long after closing.
Need help figuring out what type of professional handles a home maintenance concern? I'm happy to share resources.
Call Sarah First | 651-964-0289
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