How to Get Your Home Ready for Cooler Weather this September

As the last warm days fade and September breezes roll in, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for cooler weather. A thoughtful prep can improve comfort, lower energy bills, and prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems once winter hits. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you methodically get your home ready.

Why September is the Ideal Time

Moderate temperatures: You can work on insulation and sealing without extreme heat or cold.

Ahead of winter demand: Addressing issues now avoids emergency repairs during peak usage.

Energy savings potential: Sealing gaps and improving efficiency pays off when heating starts.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Seal air leaks:

Inspect doors and windows for drafts.

Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps.

Pay attention to attic access doors and basement seams.

Upgrade insulation where needed:

Check attic insulation thickness; add more if older than 10–15 years.

Consider insulating exposed pipes to reduce heat loss.

HVAC optimization:

Replace or clean HVAC filters (ideally 1–3 months, depending on usage).

Schedule a professional service to inspect the system BEFORE it runs heavily in fall/winter.

Smart thermostats:

If you don’t have one, a programmable or smart thermostat can optimize heating times and reduce waste.

Window treatments:

Use heavy drapes or insulating blinds to reduce heat loss at night.

Hot Water, Heating, and Insulation

Water heater efficiency:

Lower the thermostat on electric water heaters to around 120°F (49°C) to save energy and prevent scalding.

Insulate the first 6 feet of hot and cold water pipes to minimize heat loss.

Heating system readiness:

Bleed radiators (if applicable) to remove air pockets.

Check for strange noises, uneven heating, or cold spots.

Insulation upgrades:

Seal around electrical outlets and switch plates with foam gaskets to reduce drafts.

Consider adding reflective foil or a radiant barrier in the attic if you have uninsulated spaces.

Weatherproofing and Comfort

Draft prevention:

Install door sweeps on exterior doors.

Add weather stripping around doors and windows.

Ventilation and humidity:

Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to control moisture.

Consider a dehumidifier in damp basements or crawl spaces.

Roof and gutters:

Clean gutters and downspouts; ensure proper drainage away from the foundation.

Inspect for loose shingles or missing flashing after summer storms.

Fire safety readiness:

Test smoke and CO detectors; replace batteries if needed.

Keep a fire extinguisher accessible on each floor.

Safety Checks

Electrical:

Inspect outdoor outlets for weatherproofing; use GFCI outlets where required.

Check for overloaded circuits and replace any frayed cords.

Carbon monoxide awareness:

Ensure CO detectors are functioning, especially if you rely on gas appliances or a furnace.

Fire prevention:

Schedule chimney or fireplace inspections if you use wood or pellet fuel.

Water damage prevention:

Inspect for leaks under sinks and around appliances; fix promptly to prevent mold.

Conclusion

As September brings cooler days, taking proactive steps to ready your home can pay off in comfort, energy savings, and peace of mind all winter long. By following the 10 sections above—energy efficiency, hot water and insulation, weatherproofing, safety checks, exterior care, smart maintenance, a practical 2-week plan, budgeting, and a quick checklist—you’ll create a more efficient, safer, and cozy home environment. Start with the high-impact fixes first, set up a simple maintenance calendar, and tailor the plan to your climate and household needs.

Contact me today with any questions: 

Kelly Thompson-Milner, REALTOR

303.587.3846

[email protected]

Kelly’s Additional Credentials: 

Residential Construction Certified

New Build Specialist Designation