The clocks fall back on November 2nd at 2 a.m., marking the end of daylight saving time for 2025. While gaining an extra hour of sleep sounds wonderful, the time change brings more than just an adjustment to your schedule—it’s also the perfect reminder to tackle important home maintenance tasks and implement strategies to manage the emotional and physical effects of shorter days.

The biannual time change serves as a natural checkpoint in the year, creating the ideal opportunity to complete essential home safety tasks, prepare for the upcoming holiday hosting season, and establish routines that help you thrive as the days grow shorter. Let’s explore how to make the most of this seasonal transition with practical tasks for your home and effective strategies for managing the adjustment.

Why Time Change Matters for Home Maintenance

 

Twice a year—in spring and fall—most Americans adjust their clocks, creating a built-in reminder system for important home maintenance tasks that need regular attention. These tasks are easy to forget in the busy flow of daily life, but linking them to time change creates a memorable schedule that keeps your home safe and functional.

The fall time change is particularly important because it signals the transition into winter. As we prepare to spend more time indoors, ensuring our homes are safe, warm, and guest-ready becomes essential.

Essential Home Safety Tasks for Fall Time Change

 

Replace Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

This is the most well-known time change task, and for good reason. Changing smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector batteries every six months, such as when the time changes, is a crucial safety practice.

What to do:

• Test every smoke detector in your home by pressing the test button for at least 5 seconds
• Replace batteries in all battery-operated smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• Don’t forget about hardwired detectors—they have battery backups that need replacing too
• Check the expiration date or manufacturing date inside each unit—all smoke detectors should be replaced after 10 years
• Clean each detector with a vacuum or soft brush to remove dust buildup that can cause false alarms

Why it matters: Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are your first line of defense in emergencies. Fresh batteries ensure they’ll function when you need them most, especially as we enter the season when furnaces run constantly and people use space heaters, fireplaces, and other heating sources.

Schedule Your HVAC System Inspection

As temperatures drop and your heating system takes over, now is the time to ensure it’s ready for winter.

What to do:

• Have a qualified HVAC mechanic inspect your system to ensure it’s ready to heat your home all winter
• Replace or clean HVAC filters—some air filters need replacement every 30 days to a few months depending on usage (the best brand for filters!)
• Check that all vents throughout your home are unblocked and clean
• Test your thermostat to ensure it’s working properly
• Listen for unusual noises that might indicate a problem
• Consider having ducts professionally cleaned to improve air quality and efficiency

Why it matters: A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently, reducing energy costs and preventing breakdowns during the coldest months. Plus, clean filters and ducts improve indoor air quality—important as you close up the house for winter.

Inspect and Clean Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you have a wood-burning fireplace or wood stove, fall time change is your reminder to prepare for the heating season.

What to do:

• Always have a professional inspect wood stove and wood-burning fireplace chimneys before starting the first fire of the season
• Schedule a chimney sweep to remove creosote buildup
• Check the damper to ensure it opens and closes properly
• Inspect the firebox for cracks or damage
• Stock up on firewood if needed
• Test your fireplace tools and replace if necessary (These are the tools I have for cleaning – I love them!)

Why it matters: The Chimney Safety Institute of America reports an average of 22,300 chimney fires each year, and proper fireplace and chimney cleaning can prevent your home from becoming a statistic.

Winterize Outdoor Plumbing

Protecting your outdoor plumbing from freezing temperatures is essential for preventing costly damage.

What to do:

• Turn off outside hose bibs and shut off their water supply
• Drain exterior water lines to prevent freezing
• Disconnect and store garden hoses
• Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers
• Drain and store sprinkler systems if applicable
• Insulate pipes in unheated areas like garages and crawl spaces

Why it matters: Frozen pipes can burst, causing thousands of dollars in water damage. Taking preventive steps now saves major headaches and expenses later.

Check and Clean Gutters

As leaves finish falling, your gutters need attention before winter weather arrives.

In the Bay Area we have already had a few great rainy days. I noticed one section of the gutters was overflowing and had my gardener help to remove the debris. The water was overflowing onto a piece of furniture. Cleaning the gutters can also help maintain any outdoor items you have that might not be covered.

What to do:

• Clean gutters and check the roof for any damage or wear
• Remove all leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters and downspouts
• Ensure downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away from your foundation
• Look for any sagging or damaged sections that need repair
• Consider installing gutter guards to reduce future maintenance

Why it matters: Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams in winter, causing roof damage and leaks. Proper drainage also protects your foundation from water damage.

Test and Inspect All Safety Equipment

Beyond smoke detectors, other safety equipment needs regular checks.

What to do:

• Test fire extinguishers to ensure they’re fully charged and easily accessible – if you don’t have one, you should buy one!
• Check expiration dates on fire extinguishers
• Test home security systems
• Replace batteries in flashlights and keep them accessible
• Create or update your emergency supply kit – I shared this blog a few weeks ago after we experienced an earthquake.
• Review and practice your home fire escape plan with family members

Why it matters: Emergency equipment only works if it’s maintained and accessible. Regular checks ensure you’re prepared for any situation.

Check Your Water Heater

Your water heater works harder in winter, making this the perfect time for maintenance.

What to do:

• Look for leaks around the water heater
• Flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup
• Test the temperature and pressure relief valve
• Check the anode rod if you have a tank water heater
• Adjust temperature settings if needed (120°F is recommended)
• Insulate the water heater tank if it’s in an unheated space

Why it matters: Sediment buildup reduces efficiency and shortens your water heater’s lifespan. Regular maintenance keeps it running efficiently and prevents unexpected failures during cold weather.

Reverse Ceiling Fans

A simple adjustment that makes a big difference in winter comfort and energy costs.

What to do:

• Reverse ceiling fans to clockwise rotation to help move cooler air off the floor and push warmer air down
• Clean fan blades while you’re at it – This is my go-to duster for ceiling fans!
• Run fans on low speed in winter
• Check that all fans in your home are set correctly

Why it matters: Heat rises, and reversing your ceiling fans redistributes warm air, making rooms feel warmer without raising the thermostat.

Preparing Your Home for Holiday Guest Season

The time change also signals the approaching holiday season, making this the perfect moment to prepare your home for guests.

Deep Clean Guest Spaces

Now, before the holiday rush, tackle guest room preparation. By the way, my FAVORITE Fall bedding photographed above is on MAJOR SALE! The linen sheets, the duvet cover, and the shams are up to 57% off. This is organic bedding, comes in lots of colors, and so soft and warm!

What to do:

• Deep clean the guest bedroom or space
• Wash all bedding, including mattress protectors and duvet covers
• Check that you have extra pillows, blankets, and towels – my FAVORITE hotel style towels from Walmart are the best!!
• Clear closet space and add extra hangers
• Add thoughtful touches like a water carafe, phone charger, and reading light
• Stock the guest bathroom with essentials

Create Welcoming Common Areas

Make spaces comfortable for gathering:

What to do:

• Deep clean main living areas
• Steam clean or professionally clean carpets and upholstery
• Organize entertainment areas with books, games, and activities
• Set up a beverage station with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate supplies
• Check that you have adequate seating for expected guests
• Create cozy lighting with lamps and candles – my favorite candle warmer is a perfect addition for the season!

Stock Up on Hosting Essentials

Prepare your kitchen and dining areas:

What to do:

• Inventory serving dishes, platters, and utensils
• Check that you have enough plates, glasses, and silverware
• Stock up on paper products as backups
• Organize the pantry with guest-friendly snacks and breakfast items
• Test all appliances to ensure they’re working properly
• Create space in the refrigerator and freezer for holiday food prep

Managing the Emotional Impact of Time Change

 

Beyond home tasks, the fall time change affects how we feel and function. Earlier sunsets can impact mood, energy, and motivation.

Adjust Your Sleep Schedule Gradually

Medical experts recommend altering your bedtime gradually to accommodate the time change, and limiting naps to 30 minutes before 3 p.m. if you feel fatigued.

What to do:

• Go to bed and wake up at consistent times
• Get morning sunlight exposure to help regulate your body clock – if you don’t have a lot of morning sunlight, this is a great lamp!
• Avoid screens for an hour before bedtime
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine
• Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet

Maximize Natural Light

As days get shorter, make the most of available daylight:

What to do:

• Open curtains and blinds during daylight hours
• Rearrange furniture to sit near windows when possible
• Consider adding mirrors to reflect natural light
• Take morning or lunch walks to get outdoor light exposure
• Spend time outside on weekends during daylight hours

Create Cozy Evening Routines

Embrace the earlier darkness with intentional evening activities:

What to do:

• Light candles or use warm lighting in the evenings
• Create a cozy reading nook or relaxation space
• Schedule enjoyable evening activities to look forward to
• Practice gratitude or journaling as part of your evening wind-down
• Limit news consumption in the evening to reduce stress

Stay Active

Exercise helps combat the seasonal slump:

What to do:

• Schedule workouts during daylight hours when possible
• Try indoor activities like yoga, dance, or home workouts
• Join a gym or fitness class for accountability
• Take family walks after dinner, even in the dark
• Consider a light therapy lamp for morning routines – this one is great!

Time Change Checklist: Your Complete To-Do List

 

Print this checklist and tackle these tasks around the time change:

Safety Tasks:

• [ ] Replace smoke detector batteries
• [ ] Replace carbon monoxide detector batteries
• [ ] Test all smoke and CO detectors
• [ ] Check detector expiration dates
• [ ] Clean detectors with vacuum or soft brush
• [ ] Test fire extinguishers
• [ ] Check fire extinguisher expiration dates

HVAC and Heating:

• [ ] Schedule HVAC inspection
• [ ] Replace or clean HVAC filters
• [ ] Check all vents are unblocked
• [ ] Test thermostat
• [ ] Schedule fireplace/chimney inspection
• [ ] Reverse ceiling fan direction

Plumbing and Water:

• [ ] Turn off outdoor faucets
• [ ] Drain exterior water lines
• [ ] Store garden hoses
• [ ] Cover outdoor faucets
• [ ] Flush water heater
• [ ] Check for leaks around plumbing

Exterior Maintenance:

• [ ] Clean gutters
• [ ] Check roof for damage
• [ ] Trim tree branches away from house
• [ ] Store patio furniture
• [ ] Cover outdoor equipment
• [ ] Seal any exterior cracks or gaps

Guest Preparation:

• [ ] Deep clean guest spaces
• [ ] Wash guest bedding
• [ ] Stock guest bathroom
• [ ] Organize common areas
• [ ] Test appliances
• [ ] Create hosting supply inventory

Self-Care:

• [ ] Set up light therapy routine
• [ ] Adjust sleep schedule
• [ ] Plan outdoor activities
• [ ] Create cozy evening spaces
• [ ] Schedule social activities

Make Time Change Work for You

 

The biannual time change doesn’t have to be a burden. By using it as a trigger for important home maintenance tasks and self-care routines, you transform a potentially disruptive event into an opportunity for preparation and renewal.

These twice-yearly check-ins keep your home safe, your family comfortable, and your space ready for whatever the season brings—including holiday guests and cozy winter evenings at home.

This week, as you adjust to earlier sunsets and longer evenings, take time to complete these essential tasks. Your future self will thank you when your smoke detectors work properly, your heating system runs efficiently, and your home is ready to welcome loved ones for the holidays.

What home maintenance tasks do you tackle during time change? Share your favorite tips in the comments below!

Back soon with more!

xo,

Sam