By Bybee + Co Realty LLC
A well-kept house tends to hold its appeal when it is time to sell, and small seasonal chores can prevent larger repair bills. At Bybee + Co Realty LLC, we see how care for the basics shows up in showings and inspections. Utah winters bring freezing temperatures and snow, so fall and spring checklists matter.
Here is a five-part annual routine built around guidance from Utah State University Extension, the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, and the National Fire Protection Association.
Key Takeaways
- Sprinklers: USU Extension says to turn off the main water valve, set the controller to off, and drain the system.
- Fall yard tasks: USU horticulturists advise disconnecting hoses from spouts to avoid freezing damage.
- Radon: Utah DEQ reports elevated radon levels in 1 in 3 Utah homes tested.
- Smoke alarms: The National Fire Protection Association says smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half.
Blow Out the Sprinklers Using USU Extension’s Steps
Utah State University Extension’s irrigation maintenance guide lays out how to winterize a sprinkler system. Its November yard tips list blowing out irrigation systems as a late-fall task.
Steps From USU for Winter Prep
- Shut down: Turn off the water supply at the main valve and set the irrigation controller to off.
- Release pressure: Run each valve to release pressure and drain the system.
- Drain or blow out: Open drain valves if the system has them, or use an air compressor, and consider an irrigation professional.
USU also suggests rain and frost sensors that shut the system off automatically. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for your own equipment before you start.
Put the Yard to Bed With USU’s November Checklist
USU Extension horticulturists published a November 2023 list of fall yard chores. The items protect plants, tools, and plumbing before the hardest freezes.
November Tasks From USU
- Hoses: Disconnect them from water spouts to avoid freezing damage.
- Last mow: Cut grass to 1 to 1.5 inches and apply a quick-release nitrogen fertilizer for early greening next spring.
- Equipment: Drain mower gas or add fuel stabilizer, and clean and oil garden tools to prevent rust.
USU also says to water evergreens when precipitation is sparse and the ground is not frozen. The page dates from 2023, so confirm details against current Extension guidance.
Test for Radon Using Utah DEQ’s Guidelines
Utah DEQ says elevated radon levels were found in 1 in 3 Utah homes tested. The agency refers to the EPA action level of 4 picocuries per liter of air.
DEQ Test Instructions
- Placement: Put a short-term kit in the lowest living level of the home, away from the bathroom and kitchen.
- Closed house: Close up the home for at least 12 hours beforehand, then leave the kit in place for 48 to 72 hours.
- Mail-in step: DEQ recommends starting on a Friday morning and mailing the kit on Monday morning.
If results exceed the action level, DEQ says to hire a qualified Utah licensed contractor with national radon proficiency certification. The agency also notes you may want to retest in the future even after a low result.
Check Smoke Alarms Against NFPA Guidance
The National Fire Protection Association says smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half. Because the stakes are that high, alarms belong on an annual checklist.
Alarm Check Items
- Test button: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing each alarm.
- Batteries: Replace them according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
- Unit age: Look for the replacement date printed by the manufacturer on each alarm.
The NFPA page we could access gave only the headline statistic, so rely on your manufacturer’s guide for specifics. Pair the check with another yearly chore so it does not slip.
Walk the Roofline and Gutters After Winter
Utah County winters bring snow and freezing temperatures, so spring is a natural time to look over gutters, downspouts, and roofing. Visible damage is easier to spot before summer storms arrive.
Spring Walk-Around Items
- Gutters: Clear debris and confirm that downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
- Roof: Look from the ground for missing or lifted shingles.
- Caulk and siding: Note gaps around windows and doors that need repair.
Photograph any damage and keep records of repairs. Complete documentation helps when it is time to list.
FAQs
What home maintenance tips matter most in Utah?
Fall sprinkler winterization, hose disconnection, radon testing, and working smoke alarms are anchored in guidance from USU Extension, Utah DEQ, and the NFPA. Spring roof and gutter checks round out the year. Your own house may need other items.
How often should I test for radon?
Utah DEQ says short-term tests run 48 to 72 hours and long-term tests run more than 90 days. It suggests retesting if you move to a lower level of the home or sometime in the future. Confirm details with DEQ before you order a kit.
Do maintenance records help when I list my home?
Records show a home’s care history and answer questions that come up during showings and inspections. We cannot promise a price effect, but organized documentation helps. Ask your agent which records matter most.
