As the blistering summer in Arizona winds down, many will breathe a sigh of relief. The scorching triple-digit temperatures finally give way to more comfortable days, but fall in the Grand Canyon State isn’t like fall anywhere else. There’s no need to pile up on sweaters, but preparing your home for the season still takes some careful thought.
Let’s dive into how you can get your Arizona home ready for fall in a way that makes sense for this unique climate.
Enjoying Cooler Nights and Indoor Comfort
Fall in Arizona is all about cooler nights and mild days. You might not need to break out the heavy blankets, but you’ll likely want to tweak a few things around the house for a cozier feel.
First off, your thermostat settings probably need a refresh. During the summer, it’s all about keeping the house cool, but now with cooler evening temps, you can dial things back. Aim for around 68°F at night and 72°F during the day to balance comfort and energy efficiency.
According to the Department of Energy, adjusting your thermostat by just 7-10°F for 8 hours a day can save you up to 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills. That’s money in your pocket.
And don’t forget about your ceiling fans. Flip the switch so that the blades turn clockwise. This helps push warmer air back down into your living spaces during those chillier nights, making the room feel cozier without cranking up the heat.
Giving Your HVAC, Roof, and Gutters Some Attention
After a hard-working summer, your HVAC system could use a little love. Getting a tune-up will make it ready to handle the upcoming cooler months without hiccups. No one wants their heating to go out on one of those unexpected chilly nights.
And while you’re thinking about maintenance, this is the ideal time to hire professional roofers from Scottsdale to check your roof for any damage left behind by summer storms and do necessary repairs.
Don’t forget to clean out the gutters as well. Arizona might not see the same level of leaf fall as other states, but debris from the storms can still clog things up, leading to drainage issues when winter rains hit.
Refreshing Your Yard
If you’re tired of the brown, dormant Bermuda grass, you’re in luck. It’s the perfect time to overseed with winter ryegrass. It’ll keep your lawn looking lush and green through the fall and winter, and protect the soil.
If grass isn’t your thing, Arizona’s climate is made for desert-friendly perennials like agave, aloe, and desert marigolds. These beauties can thrive even as the temperatures dip, and they’re perfect for adding pops of color to your outdoor space.
And here’s a helpful tip: reduce your watering schedule as the temperature cools. Many homeowners in Arizona continue to water their lawns and plants too frequently as the weather changes, which is unnecessary and leads to water waste. Adjust your irrigation system to run less frequently – plants need far less water in the cooler months than they do during summer.
Keeping Critters and Pests Out
As the nights cool off, pests like rodents, spiders, and yes, even scorpions, will be on the hunt for warm, cozy spots. Unfortunately, your home might look like the perfect place to them. To keep unwanted guests out, take a quick walk around your house and check for any cracks or openings that need sealing. Weatherstripping doors and windows can make a big difference in keeping pests, and drafts, at bay.
Scorpions, in particular, can be a concern in Arizona. To help prevent them from sneaking into your home, ensure that your windows and doors are tightly sealed. You can also clear out debris or clutter from around your home’s exterior, as these spots can attract insects that scorpions feed on.
Dealing with the Arizona Sun and Monsoon Aftermath
Even though summer is over, the sun in Arizona doesn’t take a vacation. Fall still brings plenty of sunny days, and while it might feel more comfortable outside, UV exposure can still be harsh on your home. Consider adding or maintaining window treatments like sunshades or UV-blocking films to keep the indoor temperature steady and protect furniture from fading.
Boosting Energy Efficiency
As the heat becomes more manageable, now’s the time to think about boosting your home’s energy efficiency. If you haven’t had an energy audit recently, now is the perfect time to schedule one.
For homes with solar panels (and there are plenty of them in Arizona), fall is also a good time for a panel inspection. Cleaning off summer dust and checking the system’s performance will ensure it’s running at full capacity for those shorter fall days.
Enjoying Outdoor Living with Fire Pits and Cozy Spaces
One of the best things about fall is the opportunity to finally enjoy your outdoor spaces without melting. It’s the perfect season to set up a fire pit and enjoy cooler evenings with family and friends. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows or just cozying up with a good book, a fire pit adds a warm, inviting vibe to your outdoor living space.
But before you light it up, take proper precautions. Clear the area around the fire pit of any dry debris that could catch fire, and always keep a fire extinguisher or a hose nearby, just in case.
Adding Fall Decor and Ambiance
Fall might not bring vibrant foliage to this state, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring a cozy, warm vibe into your home. Decorate with desert-inspired fall colors like deep reds, oranges, and earthy browns. Add soft lighting, succulents, and maybe even a few pumpkins to your porch for a touch of seasonal flair.
In Summary
Arizona fall is a special kind of season. It’s about enjoying the change in the air, even if that change is more subtle than in other parts of the country. With just a few easy updates and some thoughtful care, your home can be the perfect retreat as we head into the cooler months.
So, grab that light blanket, adjust your thermostat, and get ready to enjoy fall.
