Your Autumn Home Readiness Checklist: Preparing for Cooler Temperatures in Denver
As the leaves begin to turn and the evenings start to cool off, many Denver-area homeowners feel that first nudge of fall in the air. It’s the season for cozy sweaters, warm meals, and evenings spent around the fireplace. But before you can fully enjoy everything autumn has to offer, it’s important to make sure your home is ready for the seasonal change. At Fireplace and Grill Experts, we’ve spent over 30 years helping families across the Denver Metro area stay warm, safe, and comfortable through our unpredictable Colorado weather. Over that time, we’ve put together a practical, step-by-step checklist to help homeowners prepare their spaces for the cooler months ahead.
1. Schedule Your Fireplace Service
If you own a gas fireplace, fall is the perfect time to schedule an inspection and cleaning. Over the summer months, dust, debris, and even insects can collect inside the fireplace and vents, which can cause problems when you turn it on for the first time in the fall. A professional service ensures everything is in proper working order, checks for carbon monoxide leaks, and confirms that your fireplace is running at peak efficiency. A tuned-up fireplace doesn’t just keep you warmer—it saves on energy bills and gives you peace of mind when you start using it regularly.
2. Inspect and Service Your Heating System
Your furnace or central heating system has been sitting idle for months. Before the first big cold snap hits Denver, schedule a professional tune-up. Technicians will clean the burners, replace filters, test the thermostat, and ensure your system is ready to handle the demand. Changing your furnace filter is one of the simplest tasks you can do yourself, but one of the most important—it improves air quality and keeps your system running smoothly.
3. Clean and Store Your Grill
As fireplace experts, we’re also grill experts, and fall is when many Colorado homeowners retire their grills for the season. Give your grill a thorough cleaning to remove grease and food buildup, check for any needed repairs, and store it under a high-quality cover to protect it from snow and ice. For those die-hard grillers who cook year-round (and yes, we know quite a few), make sure your propane tanks are full and your grill is safely positioned away from snowdrifts and overhangs.
4. Check Windows and Doors for Drafts
Nothing wastes more energy than a drafty house. Walk around your home and feel for cold air coming through windows and doors. Even small gaps can make your heating system work overtime. Apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal cracks, and consider adding heavier curtains to keep warmth inside. In older Denver homes, a simple door sweep can make a big difference in keeping your home toasty.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As soon as you start using your fireplace, furnace, or space heaters, your risk of carbon monoxide exposure increases. That’s why fall is the best time to test all detectors in your home. Replace old batteries, check expiration dates on units, and install additional detectors if necessary—especially near bedrooms. A few minutes spent testing could save lives.
6. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves are beautiful, but they’re also the number one reason for clogged gutters in the fall. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, roof leaks, and even foundation issues. Grab a ladder, clear out debris, and make sure downspouts are directing water away from your home. For added protection, consider installing gutter guards before the snow season hits.
7. Prepare Your Outdoor Space
Denver homeowners know that fall can swing from 75-degree days to freezing nights in a matter of hours. Take time now to prepare your outdoor living space. Drain and disconnect hoses, shut off exterior faucets, and winterize your sprinkler system. Cover or store patio furniture to extend its lifespan, and give your deck or concrete patio a good sweep to prevent damage from fallen leaves and standing water.
8. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Did you know that ceiling fans can help you stay warmer in winter? By reversing the direction of your fan blades to rotate clockwise at a low speed, you’ll push warm air down from the ceiling into your living space. It’s a simple trick that helps your heating system work more efficiently and keeps rooms feeling cozier.
9. Stock Up on Firewood or Fuel
Even if you have a gas fireplace, you may rely on an outdoor fire pit, pellet stove, or even a backup wood-burning stove for extra warmth. Stock up now on firewood, pellets, or propane before the first rush of cold weather drives up demand. Store everything in a dry, covered area so it’s ready when you need it.
10. Schedule a Roof and Chimney Inspection
Our Colorado winters can be tough on roofs, especially with heavy snow accumulation. A fall roof inspection helps catch minor issues before they turn into costly leaks. If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, it’s also critical to have your chimney cleaned and inspected to remove creosote buildup and reduce the risk of chimney fires.
11. Deep Clean Floors and Carpets
During the summer, your home sees a lot of dirt, dust, and pollen tracked inside. Giving your floors and carpets a deep clean before the cooler months ensures a healthier indoor environment when windows are closed for long stretches. It also creates a fresh, welcoming feel just in time for the holidays.
12. Bring Out the Cozy
Preparing your home for autumn isn’t only about safety and maintenance—it’s also about comfort. Pull out your favorite blankets, swap lighter bedding for warmer layers, and add a few seasonal touches like pumpkins, candles, or fall wreaths. Creating a cozy atmosphere makes those chilly Denver evenings something to look forward to.
13. Plan for Holiday Cooking and Entertaining
Fall leads right into the holiday season, so now’s the time to make sure your kitchen appliances are in good working order. Check your oven, clean out the refrigerator, and test small appliances before you start planning gatherings. If you’re a grill enthusiast, this is also a great opportunity to think ahead about Thanksgiving turkey or holiday roasts prepared outdoors.
14. Review Emergency Supplies
Colorado weather can be unpredictable. Stock your home with essentials like flashlights, extra blankets, batteries, and non-perishable food in case of power outages. Make sure your snow shovels, ice melt, and winter gear are accessible so you’re not caught off guard by the first snowstorm.
Why Preparing in Autumn Matters
Taking the time now to get your home ready for fall and winter saves you headaches later. By scheduling fireplace and heating maintenance, sealing up drafts, and preparing your outdoor space, you’ll create a safer, more comfortable environment for your family. Plus, you’ll likely save money on energy bills by keeping your home efficient and well-insulated. At Fireplace and Grill Experts, we know what it takes to stay comfortable in a Colorado home. For over three decades, our family-owned and operated business has proudly served Denver, Aurora, and the surrounding communities with trusted fireplace services, grill expertise, and personalized customer care. Whether you need your fireplace serviced, a new gas insert installed, or just advice on keeping your grill in top shape for year-round cooking, we’re here to help.
Whether you're investing in a new unit or looking for a dependable service company, take the time to vet your options carefully. The upfront diligence pays off in the form of warm, worry-free nights for years to come.This information is provided for entertainment purposes by Fireplace and Grill Experts, Inc. We are a family owned and operated Colorado business with over 30 years’ experience in the hearth industry. We provide service, repair and installation of gas fireplaces, outdoor natural gas and propane grills, gas fire pits, gas patio heaters and gas lines. If its gas related, we are your professional and experienced service team. Please contact us with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment.