Roots Fall Home Prep Tips for a Cozy, Worry-Free Season.

The crisp air, colorful leaves, and shorter days mean one thing, fall is here.

And while many of us welcome cooler weather and pumpkin spice everything, the shift in seasons is also a reminder to get our homes ready for winter.

We have tips for residents living in manufactured homes because a few tricks and tips can go a long way and some supplies are made specifically for manufactured homes that you don't find with stick built homes. A little preparation now can save time, money, and stress when the coldest days arrive. 

At Roots Management Group, our maintenance teams know firsthand how important seasonal prep can be. And we spoke with Braylen Reed, Maintenance Manager at Roots who offers great advice. 

“One of the most important things residents can do is start by turning on their central heating to make sure it’s working properly. If they notice anything isn’t functioning as it should, that’s the time to have it checked out. It’s always better to check now than to find out on the first freezing night of the year.” Homeowners need to call a certified HVAC company and for those renting, fill out a service ticket now before the weather dips and crews are busier than normal. 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating accounts for about 29% of a typical household’s energy use. That makes it not only one of the most essential systems in your home but also one of the costliest if it’s not running efficiently. 

Braylen also gives these helpful tips: 

• Test your furnace or central heating early. Don’t wait for a cold snap. If something isn’t right, it's time to schedule a Maintenace check or have a local HVAC system expert come to make sure everything is functioning and running smoothly.  

• Replace or clean filters. A clogged filter forces your heating system to work harder, driving up energy bills. 

• Check vents for blockages. Make sure furniture, rugs, or curtains aren’t blocking warm airflow. 

Stop Drafts Before They Start. 

Another step Reed recommends is checking for air leaks around windows and doors. 

“Drafty windows and doors may not seem like a big deal in the fall, but by the time winter sets in, those small gaps can add up to a lot of lost heat,” he explains. 

Simple fixes like weatherstripping, draft stoppers, or even heavy curtains can make a noticeable difference. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that sealing leaks can cut heating and cooling costs by 10–20% annually. 

Protect Your Pipes. 

One of the biggest concerns for manufactured home residents during freezing weather is water lines. Burst pipes are not only inconvenient but also expensive. 

Reed’s advice: “As we move into the winter season, it’s recommended that tenants leave faucets slightly dripping to help prevent water lines from freezing. That small step can save a lot of trouble when temperatures drop below freezing.” 

Additional tips for protecting pipes include: 

• Insulating exposed water lines. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and available at most hardware stores. 

• Keeping cabinet doors open under sinks on especially cold nights to allow warm air to circulate. 

Beyond heating and plumbing, Fall is also a good time to: 

• Clean gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and roof issues when snow or ice accumulate. 

• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. With furnaces running and homes sealed tightly, safety checks are a must. 

• Rake leaves away from skirting. Piles of leaves near the base of your home can trap moisture and invite pests. 

• Take a walk around your home. Now is a great time to get outside and take a look at your roof, skirting and entryway to make sure everything is functioning and sturdy. You do not want to be out in the cold winter months doing this, Fall is a great time for a top to bottom inspection and walk around and do a top to bottom inspection.  

Why Preparing Now Matters. 

Getting your manufactured home winter-ready isn’t just about comfort, it’s about peace of mind. EnergyStar reports that simple home maintenance can reduce utility costs by up to 30% while also extending the life of your home’s systems. 

At Roots Management Group, we believe preparation creates stronger, safer communities. And it all starts with small, practical steps residents can take today.

Jaclyn Hay, Senior Regional Manager with Roots Management Group, is reminding Community Managers to not only have properties examined prior to the cold setting in but has managers remind residents to be prepared and plan ahead. “Proactive home care not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind during the colder months.” Not to mention saves a lot of headache and worry. 

So before the first frost hits, we have a checklist below so you can enjoy the season ahead worry-free. 

"A little preparation can save you from costly repairs, keep your family safe, and ensure your home stays cozy all season long" adds Hay. 

 Whether you own your home or rent, we created a helpful checklist to help you prepare.