14 Fast Fall Fixes

Clean the Vent Hood

Get Deals on Lawn Equipment

Refresh Window Boxes

Service Smoke Alarms

Clear dust from the smoke-sensing chamber using a vacuum’s soft brush or compressed air, then test after reinstalling.

Hosing off outdoor surfaces will help keep allergens from traveling indoors. Toss cushions in the washer or, if they’re too delicate, use dish soap and water to hand-wash.

Drain the Water Heater

Turn equipment off, then force out sediment using a pump and a garden hose until the water runs clear. Richard shows you how in this video.

Fertilize Your Lawn

Hot summer months can force your turf into dormancy, but September, with its cooler weather, is the right time to revive growth with nitrogen-rich fertilizer; look for a 20-8-8 formula. Follow up in six to eight weeks with a phosphorus-rich 13-25-12 fertilizer to stimulate root growth before winter.

Shorter days and longer nights are within view, so now’s a good time to give exterior lights a little love. First, spray any rusted areas with WD-40, then scrub with a heavy-duty scouring pad. Tape off the glass and give the frame a fresh coat of rust-inhibiting spray paint. If you prefer an unpainted look, protect it with a UV-resistant clear coat.

Drain and Store Hoses

Before freezing temperatures cause ice to form and burst your hoses, empty them, then coil and store for winter.

Light Your Path

If walkways aren’t lit, add low-tech solar lanterns on stakes to give guests safer footing.

Move Cold-Sensitive Items Inside

Latex paint and other water-based products can freeze if left in the cold, so make a space for them inside before temps start to dip.

Dust Heating Vents

Vacuum debris from registers and grilles before turning on the heat to maximize efficiency.

Upgrade Your Thermostat

You can help save money on utilities by making the switch to a programmable model before the weather cools.

Extend Downspouts