September Home Maintenance Tips

September often brings cooler nights and shorter days here in Central Iowa, reminding us that fall is settling in and winter isn’t far behind. Now is the time to stay ahead of seasonal changes so your home is protected before the first frost arrives. Here are some timely maintenance tasks to add to your checklist this month:

Inspect and Clean Gutters Early

Leaves will start falling soon, but don’t wait until October to check your gutters. Summer storms may have filled them with twigs, shingle grit, or debris that can block drainage. Clean them now, and then plan on a second cleaning once the bulk of the leaves are down. Also, check that downspouts extend several feet away from your foundation—this helps prevent basement leaks and pressure on foundation walls when the ground freezes.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With more time spent indoors and furnaces kicking on soon, now is the perfect time to test all alarms. Replace batteries if needed, and check expiration dates—many detectors are designed to be replaced every 7–10 years. If you don’t already have a carbon monoxide detector near each sleeping area, this is the time to install them.

Prepare Windows and Doors for Drafts

As temperatures drop, small air leaks can become big comfort and energy issues. Walk around the house and check for gaps around windows and doors. Caulk or replace worn weatherstripping where needed. A simple tube of caulk or roll of weatherstripping can save you from higher heating bills all winter long.

Schedule Furnace Service

Don’t wait until the first cold snap to discover that your furnace isn’t working. Schedule a professional tune-up in September so it’s ready for the months ahead. If you have a whole-house humidifier, ask your technician to inspect and service it as well—lime and mineral build-up can reduce its effectiveness. Also, remember to replace your furnace filter now and stock up on extras for the winter.

Prep the Lawn and Garden for Next Year

September is one of the best times to fertilize cool-season grasses, seed bare spots, and apply weed control. Aerating compacted soil this month will help roots grow deeper before winter dormancy. In garden beds, remove spent annuals, cut back perennials as needed, and start mulching to protect roots through the freeze-thaw cycles.

Check Outdoor Lighting

With shorter days coming, make sure your outdoor lights are working. Replace burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LEDs. Good lighting not only improves safety but also discourages unwanted pests and intruders as the nights get longer.

Clean and Store Summer Equipment

As mowing winds down, take time to clean your lawnmower, trimmer, and other gas-powered equipment. Change the oil, sharpen blades, and add a fuel stabilizer before storing for winter. This prevents spring headaches and extends the life of your equipment.

By tackling these projects in September, you’ll be setting yourself up for a smooth transition into fall and winter. Most of these tasks can be done on your own, but if you need a professional, I can connect you with trusted local contractors.

Take care of your home now, and then go enjoy everything fall in Iowa has to offer—football games, pumpkin patches, and crisp autumn evenings!

As a Broker Associate/REALTOR® at EXIT Realty and Associates, I specialize in buying and selling real estate throughout Central Iowa, including Norwalk, Des Moines, West Des Moines, Cumming, Indianola, Carlisle, Waukee, Urbandale, Grimes, Clive, Johnston, Ankeny, Altoona, and Pleasant Hill. I proudly serve Warren, Polk, Dallas, and Madison Counties.

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