A Fall Maintenance Checklist for Your Home or Business

Clean Earth Septic • September 12, 2024

If Your Home Has a Septic System, Add it to Your List

fall home checklist from Clean Earth Septic Services

As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to change colors, it's a clear sign that fall is just around the corner here in Ithaca, NY. While autumn brings with it cozy sweaters, roadside stands with pumpkins and gourds for sale, and the excitement of Halloween, it also brings a change in the weather and outdoor conditions. To ensure that your home, yard, and septic system are ready for this beautiful season, we've compiled a list of tips. You can think of it as a "to-do" list for any responsible home or business owner!


  • Clean Your Gutters:
    Fall often means falling leaves, which can clog your gutters and downspouts. Cleaning them out before the heavy rains arrive will prevent water damage and ensure proper drainage.

  • Schedule Your Septic Service:
    If you are not sure when your tank was last pumped or you know you're due for service, be sure to call now so we can get your service scheduled before the temperatures drop. It can be difficult to dig out manhole covers and service your tank when the ground is frozen, so be sure to get your septic pumping scheduled this fall to keep things flushing smoothly! We offer quality
    septic and grease service throughout the Twin Tiers region. To learn more about our septic services and tips for keeping your septic system working properly, click here.

  • Inspect Your Roof:
    Check your roof for any loose or damaged shingles. With the increased risk of rain and snow in the coming months, it's crucial to fix any issues now to avoid costly repairs later.

  • Seal Windows and Doors:
    Drafts can significantly increase your energy bills during the colder months. Inspect and seal any gaps around windows and doors to keep warm air in and cold air out.

  • Service Your Heating System:
    Before the cold weather sets in, have your heating system inspected and serviced. This will ensure it's running efficiently and safely throughout the fall and winter.

  • Prepare Your Fireplace:
    If you have a fireplace, make sure it's clean and in good working condition. If you haven't had it professionally cleaned, it may be a good idea to contact a local chimney sweep company who can perform a professional inspection. Lastly you'll want to stock up on firewood!

  • Store Outdoor Furniture:
    Protect your outdoor furniture from the elements by storing it or covering it securely. This will prolong its lifespan and save you from having to replace it prematurely.

  • Lawn Care:
    Autumn is the perfect time to aerate and fertilize your lawn. It's also a good time for weed control and reseeding any bare patches. If your manhole covers are below grade, now is a great time to dig them out before the ground becomes frozen and your septic tank is impossible to access. We can help bring your access points to grade with
    septic tank risers. To learn more, contact us today. Our crew will dig out your manhole lids and install wide piping extensions or "risers" to bring your access points to grade for easy access and time of year.

  • Prune Trees and Shrubs:
    Trimming back overgrown branches and shrubs can help prevent winter damage. It also encourages healthy growth in the spring.


Preparing your Ithaca, NY septic system for fall not only ensures a more comfortable and energy-efficient season but also safeguards your property from potential damage. By following our simple tips, you can embrace all the beauty and coziness that autumn has to offer while keeping your home and outdoor spaces in tip-top shape. So, schedule your Finger Lakes Area septic service, tackle the lawn care and get ready to enjoy the splendors of fall!



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It's our goal to share useful tips for homeowners with septic systems and provide the information you need when it comes to your business' grease trap. 
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Kevin D.
Corning, NY 
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Horseheads, NY