November Home Maintenance Checklist

Prepare Your Home for Winter

As the leaves fade and frosty mornings arrive in Central Pennsylvania, November signals the final call for outdoor chores. It’s time to button up your home before true winter settles in.

A little preparation now can prevent expensive repairs later and keep your home warm, safe, and ready for the holidays. This November home maintenance checklist breaks tasks into simple, manageable steps you can complete before December’s chill takes hold.

🍂 1. Clear Out Fall Debris

Start outside. Remove fallen leaves and debris from your lawn, gardens, and gutters. Clogged gutters cause water to back up and freeze, leading to roof damage.

Rake and bag remaining leaves so air and sunlight can reach your grass. Clean sidewalks and driveways to prevent slips once temperatures drop.

When finished, store rakes, hoses, and planters in a dry spot until spring.

Helpful Finds:

• Gutter cleaning tool – clear debris safely from the ground.
• Heavy-duty leaf bags – tough enough for end-of-season cleanup.
• Outdoor storage bin – keeps garden tools dry and organized.

❄️ 2. Winterize Outdoor Faucets & Equipment

Freezing temperatures can damage outdoor plumbing. Disconnect hoses and drain water completely. Cover outdoor faucets with insulated bib covers to prevent frozen pipes.

Empty and store gas-powered tools like mowers and trimmers. Run engines until fuel is gone to protect them through winter.

Helpful Finds:

• Hose bib covers – inexpensive, easy freeze protection.
• Heavy-duty hose reel – tidy way to store garden hoses.

🔥 3. Inspect Heating Systems & Fireplace

Before the cold hits hard, test your heating system. Replace filters and listen for unusual sounds. Schedule a professional tune-up if it’s been over a year.

If you have a fireplace, clean it and check the chimney for blockages or buildup. Proper maintenance improves efficiency and keeps your family safe.

Helpful Finds:

• Smart thermostat – adjust temperatures efficiently day or night.
• Furnace filters – simple swap that boosts air quality.
• Fireplace cleaning kit – easy upkeep between professional visits.

🌬️ 4. Seal Drafts & Improve Insulation

Drafts make your home colder and your energy bill higher. Run your hand around doors and windows—if you feel cool air, seal it now.

Apply weatherstripping, add draft stoppers, and hang insulated curtains for extra warmth. Small changes keep every room comfortable all season long.

Helpful Finds:

• Weatherstripping kit – seals small gaps quickly.
• Draft stoppers – block chilly air under doors.
• Thermal blackout curtains – reduce heat loss while adding style.

💡 5. Test Safety Devices

With heaters and fireplaces running, safety checks are essential. Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Confirm each alarm sounds properly.

Inspect fire extinguishers for expiration dates and restock emergency supplies. It’s an easy step that could save lives.

Helpful Finds:

• Combination smoke & CO detector – one device, dual protection.
• Rechargeable flashlight – handy backup for winter storms.
• Home safety kit – includes essentials for emergencies.

🕯️ 6. Boost Indoor Comfort

Once the outdoor chores are finished, turn your attention inside. Layer cozy blankets, add soft lighting, and introduce warm scents.

A humidifier helps balance dry indoor air, especially once your heat runs daily. Refresh doormats to handle muddy boots and melting snow.

Helpful Finds:

• Fall-scented candle set – fill rooms with inviting fragrance.
• Humidifier – keeps air comfortable and healthy.
• Washable entry mat – traps dirt and water easily.

🛠️ 7. Check Attic, Basement, and Roof

Take a quick walk through spaces you rarely visit. Look for leaks, drafts, or small critters seeking warmth. Add insulation where gaps exist.

From the ground, scan your roof for missing shingles or sagging gutters. Catching small problems now avoids costly repairs later.

Helpful Finds:

• Binoculars – inspect roof safely from your yard.
• Caulk gun & kit – seal small cracks before they spread.
• Pest repellent plug-ins – discourage rodents from nesting.

🎁 8. Prepare for the Holidays

Before your schedule fills up, prepare your home for guests and gatherings.

Check outdoor lights and extension cords for frays. Clean guest rooms and wash bedding. Stock up on essentials now so you can relax later.

Helpful Finds:

• Outdoor light timer – automates holiday décor safely.
• Guest room bedding set – fresh and inviting for visitors.
• Storage totes – organize decorations after the season ends.

📋 Printable Bonus: Your November Home Maintenance Checklist

Stay organized with this quick-reference list of key tasks. Print it or save it on your phone for easy tracking throughout the month.

🏡 Indoor & Outdoor Essentials

November is the perfect transition month in Central Pennsylvania. One day it’s crisp and sunny; the next, a light snow dusts the ground.

Completing this November home maintenance checklist now means fewer surprises later. You’ll protect your investment, lower energy costs, and enjoy a warmer, more comfortable winter season.

A little effort goes a long way toward peace of mind — and a cozy, well-kept home always shines brighter through the holidays.

“Looking for more ways to protect and enjoy your home? Visit the Team Longenecker blog for seasonal checklists, décor inspiration, and local real estate insights.”