10 Things to Do When Daylight Saving Time Ends

As daylight saving time ends and we turn our clocks back, it’s the perfect reminder to tackle some simple yet important home maintenance tasks. Here are ten things to do to prepare your home and get ready for the winter season.

1. Change Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for keeping your home safe. Changing the batteries every six months is crucial to ensure they’re working properly. As we turn back the clocks, it’s the perfect reminder to keep your detectors in top shape.

2. Flip Your Mattress for Even Wear

Rotating or flipping your mattress helps prevent sagging and extends its life. As the weather cools, flipping the mattress can be a great way to prepare your bed for cozy nights ahead. Some mattresses need only rotation, so check your mattress type before flipping.

3. Wash or Replace Pillows

Pillows can collect dust mites, allergens, and oils over time. Take this opportunity to wash or replace them, which can contribute to better sleep and improve air quality in your bedroom.

4. Clear Expired Items from the Medicine Cabinet and Pantry

Now’s a good time to check expiration dates in your medicine cabinet and pantry. Properly dispose of any expired medications and clear out pantry items that may have passed their prime.

5. Clean the Refrigerator, Including Coils

A clean fridge keeps your food fresh and saves energy. Wipe down shelves and bins and clean the coils on the back or underside of the fridge, which improves its efficiency and helps avoid costly repairs.

6. Vacuum Dryer Vent and Ducts

Lint buildup in dryer vents can be a fire hazard, so vacuuming them out is essential. For an even deeper clean, consider scheduling professional duct cleaning, which can improve air quality and energy efficiency.

7. Replace or Clean Filters Throughout the House

Check and replace or clean air filters, furnace filters, and any water filters around the house. Clean filters improve airflow and indoor air quality and can help reduce energy costs.

8. Clean the Oven for Holiday Readiness

With the holiday season approaching, a clean oven is essential for all the extra cooking and baking. Remove baked-on grease and grime so your oven is ready for the festivities.

9. Update Emergency Kit Items

Check that all emergency kit items are current and functional. Replace flashlight batteries, update any expired food or water supplies, and ensure you have a first-aid kit ready.

10. Set Clocks Back One Hour

On November 3, 2024, set your clocks back one hour at 2 AM. This simple step marks the end of daylight saving time, giving you an extra hour of rest and a reminder to finish these maintenance tasks.

Wrapping Up These small tasks can make a big difference in home safety, efficiency, and comfort as we transition into winter. Taking the time to prepare now means you can enjoy a safer, cleaner, and cozier home as the days get shorter.