Preparing Your Home for the Cooler Coastal Months

Fall in Southeast Georgia doesn’t bring snow or ice, but it does bring cooler nights, heavier rains, and the start of the holiday season, which makes it the perfect time to tackle some easy home maintenance before winter arrives.

Here’s a simple checklist to help keep your home in great shape through the cooler coastal months.

1. Service Your HVAC System

Even though we don’t deal with freezing temperatures, you’ll still want your heating system ready for those chilly mornings

• Schedule a fall HVAC tune-up to make sure your system runs efficiently.

• Replace air filters (especially important if you’ve been running the AC all summer).

• Check vents and registers for dust buildup.

If you notice a burning smell the first time you turn the heat on, don’t panic — it’s usually just dust burning off the coils. The odor should fade quickly, but if it lingers, it’s worth putting in a maintenance request or calling your HVAC technician

2. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts

Coastal Georgia’s fall and winter months often bring steady rain and windy days, which means leaves and pine needles can clog your gutters fast.

• Clear out debris so water can flow freely.

• Check for sagging or disconnected sections.

• Make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation to prevent pooling.

A clean gutter system protects your roof, siding, and landscaping from potential water damage.

3. Inspect Weather Stripping and Seals

Keeping the cool air out (and the warm air in) helps your home stay comfortable and energy-efficient.

• Check doors and windows for drafts or gaps.

• Replace worn weather stripping or apply caulk where needed.

• Consider adding door sweeps to exterior doors to prevent cold air from sneaking in.

Even small air leaks can raise your energy bills during the winter months.

4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As you start using heaters or fireplaces more often, it’s a good time to double-check safety devices.

• Test all alarms and replace batteries.

• Make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors if you use gas appliances.

• Keep a fire extinguisher accessible in the kitchen and near any heat sources.

5. Tidy Up Your Yard and Outdoor Spaces

Mild weather makes fall the perfect time for a little outdoor upkeep:

• Trim back overgrown shrubs and trees, especially those close to your roof or windows.

• Store outdoor furniture or cover it to protect against salt air and moisture.

• Pressure wash patios, porches, and walkways to prevent mildew buildup.

A clean, well-maintained yard helps your home look its best year-round, and prevents small maintenance issues from turning into bigger problems later.

6. Check for Moisture or Drainage Issues

With our coastal climate, excess moisture can cause trouble quickly.

• Inspect around your foundation and under sinks for signs of leaks.

• Make sure your crawl space or attic has proper ventilation.

• If your yard tends to stay soggy after rain, consider adding extra drainage before winter sets in.

  
  

Keep Your Home Coastal-Strong Year-Round

Taking care of these small maintenance tasks now will help protect your home through the winter, and make spring cleaning that much easier when warmer weather returns.

Whether you’re a longtime homeowner or new to the Southeast Georgia area, our team at Coastal Roots Realty is here to help you make the most of coastal living.

Need trusted local vendors? We can connect you with reliable HVAC, pressure washing, and landscaping professionals who help keep our properties looking their best.