When you own a home, it’s all too easy for fall and winter to sneak up on you. From burst pipes to unexpected heating failures, being unprepared can turn minor issues into costly repairs and sky-high energy bills. In fact, American homeowners pay an average of $3,497 annually to fix weather-related damages.
But with a bit of foresight, protecting your home may also provide savings in the long run. The key is to start preparing your home for seasonal challenges months before they may occur.
Budgeting for New Homeowners: How to Prepare Your House for Fall and Winter
Proactive home maintenance
One survey found that 51% of American homeowners say that changing weather in the fall and winter has caused an issue with their house — which is why budgeting for new homeowners should always include a plan for proactive seasonal home maintenance.
Rather than waiting for fall and winter's harsh conditions to reveal costly problems, taking action during the fall can save you significant money and stress. Use this list to get started:
- Clean and replace gutters: After the surrounding trees have shed the last of their leaves, turn your focus to gutter maintenance. Clear clogs and consider replacing old, damaged gutters to prevent water damage and ice buildup.
- Seal cracks and openings: Fall is the perfect time to identify and seal unwanted drafts. Preventing heat loss will keep your home cozy and your energy bills low.
- Turn off and drain exterior faucets: Before the first frost, turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain them completely to prevent pipe freezing and costly burst pipes. While you’re at it, disconnect and store any attached hoses so they’ll be in good condition when spring arrives.
- Check and repair the roof: Regularly inspect your roof for missing, damaged, or loose shingles and address any issues before seasonal storms hit. A sound roof is essential for protecting your home's interior.
Improve home efficiency
Improving home efficiency is not just an environmentally conscious choice; it's a financial strategy that benefits homeowners in both the short and long term. Due to rising energy costs, the average U.S. household paid 17% more on heating in the winter of 2024 compared to 2023.
By taking proactive steps to enhance your home's efficiency during the fall, you can significantly reduce ongoing utility costs and extend the lifespan of your home's systems. Follow these key steps to optimize your home's performance for the colder months:
- Weatherstrip windows and doors: Drafty windows are a major culprit of heat loss. By weatherstripping windows and doors, you'll not only enhance comfort but also prevent costly energy leaks.
- Replace the furnace filter: Spend some time in the fall to ensure your furnace is ready for fall and winter. A clean filter optimizes heating efficiency, reducing energy consumption and preventing potential breakdowns.
- Install programmable thermostats: Take advantage of the cooler fall temperatures to experiment with programmable thermostats. By setting customized temperature schedules, you can fine-tune your home's heating and achieve substantial energy savings.
- Service your heating system: Preventative maintenance is key to a long-lasting and efficient heating system. Scheduling a professional inspection in the fall ensures your system is ready to handle seasonal demands.
- Inspect and repair insulation: While the weather is still mild, check the condition of your home's insulation. Addressing any gaps or deficiencies will significantly improve energy efficiency and overall comfort during the colder months.
Safeguard your home against fall and winter risks
As temperatures begin to drop, safeguarding your home against seasonal challenges becomes crucial. According to the American Red Cross, nearly 47,000 fires occur nationwide during the winter holidays alone, causing over 500 deaths, 2,200 injuries, and $554 million in property damage.
Here are some ways to protect your home and, more importantly, ensure the safety and well-being of everyone inside:
- Inspect the chimney and fireplace: Fall is the ideal time to schedule a professional chimney cleaning and inspection. A clean and well-maintained fireplace reduces the risk of fires.
- Test all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: If needed, install new batteries. Consider buying a home fire extinguisher as well. A properly functioning early warning system can save lives and prevent property damage.
Don’t Let Fall and Winter Woes Catch You Off Guard
A well-maintained home is a warm, comfortable, and financially sound investment. By addressing potential issues before the first snowflake falls, you not only prevent emergency repairs but also optimize your home's energy efficiency, leading to lower monthly bills.
We’re here to help you tackle the challenges of changing seasons. Our financing options can assist new homeowners in proactively safeguarding their homes against seasonal damage. And if the unexpected happens, our loans and lines of credit may help cover unforeseen home repairs.
Prefer to save for those home improvement projects? We have competitive promotional rates allowing you to grow your savings faster and achieve your home project goals without needing credit. By taking advantage of this opportunity, you can significantly boost your American homeowners savings and enjoy greater financial peace of mind.
Contact us today to discover how we can provide homeowners savings while protecting your home.
Explore Offers and Connect With a Banker