10 Fall Home Chores Every Michigander Should Do Before Winter

Fall in Michigan is such a magical time, meant for sipping cider and eating donuts at cider mills, leaf peeping, and rocking flannel.

However, it's also a time to prepare for the ever-approaching winter.

Fall is the perfect opportunity to tackle all those home projects—it's not super hot or humid, and not too cold either.

Michigan’s Essential Fall Chore Checklist

Here's a look at a few items that should be on every Michigander's fall to-do list.

10. Check your sump pump

Snow melt in the spring and basements aren't a good combination.

9. Check your roof for loose shingles

You'll want to tackle those before the snow comes around.

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8. Flip your ceiling fan

It will push the warm air down instead of up and away.

7. Restock firewood

This is if you have a wood stove or fireplace.

6. Winterize doors and windows

Plastic film, draft stoppers, and caulk will go a long way when it's -10 out and the heating bills are getting expensive.

5. Cover or store patio furniture and grills

Otherwise you're just going to end up with ice sculptures in the winter and the potential for mold in the spring.

4. Check your snow blower

You don't want the first time you go to use it for the season to be the first snowfall, only to find out it doesn't work.

3. Turn off and drain the outside faucet

You don't want the pipes to freeze. And while you're at it, disconnect the hose and bring it in.

2. Replace your furnace filter

If you have allergies or pets, you may want to think about getting a higher level of filtration.

1. Clean out your gutters

This keeps them from turning into giant ice walls that ruin your roof.