Home maintenance tends to follow a seasonal rhythm. In spring, it’s about refreshing and repairing. In summer, it’s upkeep and upgrades. As we move into early fall here in the Valley of the Sun, the focus shifts to prevention.
Waiting until the temperatures drop to prep for winter can lead to higher costs and added stress. By tackling a few small projects in September, you can avoid the rush, take advantage of the milder weather, and head into the colder months with fewer unknowns. Whether you plan to stay in your home through winter or you're considering selling down the line, these fixes help keep everything running smoothly.
Here are five ways to get ahead while there’s still time.
1. Check windows and doors for air leaks
Drafty doors and windows can let out more than just warm air. They also make your heating system work harder, which often leads to higher energy bills. According to Natural Resources Canada, roughly a quarter of a home’s heat loss happens through poorly sealed doors and windows.
You don’t need specialized tools to spot problem areas. On a windy day, move your hand or a stick of incense slowly along the edges of frames. If you feel air movement or see the smoke shift direction, that’s a good indicator of a gap.
Common spots to check include:
- Caulking around the exterior of windows
- Weatherstripping along door frames
- Gaps beneath exterior doors or at patio sliders
Replacing worn weatherstripping and resealing with caulk can usually be done in a single afternoon and doesn’t require professional help.
2. Replace or clean HVAC filters
If your filters haven’t been checked since the start of summer, this is a good time to replace them. Dirty filters reduce airflow, collect dust, and put added strain on your heating system, especially once it’s running more frequently.
Most households can follow a 90-day replacement cycle, though if you have pets or allergies, monthly checks may be needed. Filters are inexpensive and widely available at hardware stores or online.
Additional HVAC maintenance to consider includes:
- Turn on the heat briefly to make sure the system responds correctly
- Clear furniture and clutter from in front of vents and baseboard units
- If you haven’t had a professional tune-up in the last year, consider booking one before service providers get fully booked in October
Routine maintenance often catches minor issues before they turn into emergency repairs.
3. Do a full exterior check
Several parts of your home’s exterior need attention before the weather shifts. Early fall is a practical time to address these areas while conditions are still mild and contractors have more availability.
Start with gutters and downspouts. These often stay out of sight until they cause problems. When water can’t drain properly, it may overflow at the roofline, pool near the foundation, or create icy patches later in the season. Even if leaves haven’t started falling, summer debris—like twigs, seed pods, and roof granules—can still cause blockages. Cleaning them out now makes it easier to assess whether any repairs are needed.
Check for:
- Sagging or uneven gutter sections
- Loose or missing fasteners
- Downspouts that don’t direct water far enough from the home
If your property has mature trees, plan to clean the gutters again in late fall.
The yard may also need some cleanup. This includes clearing out dead branches, trimming back overgrowth, and raking any early leaf accumulation. Piles of organic debris can attract pests or cause moisture buildup around the base of the home.
Outdoor water systems should also be shut down ahead of the first freeze. Disconnect garden hoses, drain them fully, and store them indoors if possible. Shut off the water supply to hose bibs and outdoor spigots. You may also want to consider installing insulated covers to reduce the risk of freezing.
If your property includes a pool, September is typically the time to arrange for a professional closing. That process may include lowering the water level, winterizing the pump and filter, adding closing chemicals, and securely installing a cover. Taking care of this before temperatures drop can prevent costly repairs in spring.
4. Prep your entryways for wet weather
As the seasons change, daily routines shift, and high-traffic entry areas can get messy fast. Rain and mud can easily be tracked in, and small spaces can start to feel chaotic without a few updates.
This is a good time to check what’s working and what needs adjustment. Are rugs thick enough to absorb water? Is there a spot to store wet shoes or boots? Do coats pile up near the door?
Simple improvements can make a noticeable difference:
- Replace thin mats with ones designed for water absorption and durability
- Set out a boot tray to help contain messes
- Add wall hooks or a small bench with storage
Exterior lighting is also worth a look while the days are still long. Replace burnt-out bulbs and make sure fixtures are safe for winter weather.
If you’re planning to sell during or after winter, a clean and functional entryway is one of the first things potential buyers will notice during showings.
5. Organize your garage or storage areas
This is often the season when things start going missing in the garage. Cold-weather tools get buried behind summer gear, holiday decorations become harder to reach, and clutter builds up quickly as routines shift.
September offers a window to sort things out before winter weather complicates access.
Focus on:
- Grouping together snow shovels, de-icer, windshield scrapers, and other winter tools
- Checking expiration dates on products like washer fluid or salt
- Storing garden hoses after draining them and shutting off outdoor taps
If you use your garage or shed for sports equipment or bulk household items, now’s a good time to rotate storage and clear out items you no longer need.
For homeowners considering listing in the near future, an organized storage space can make the property feel more functional and well-kept during showings.
Thinking ahead this season?
September sits in that short window of time before cold weather routines fully take over. With a few simple projects, you can reduce future repairs, improve comfort, and keep your home running efficiently—no last-minute scrambling required.
