- Schedule a professional checkup for your heating system. Now is the time to find problems, not when it's freezing outside.
- If you have a fireplace, get it inspected and cleaned before you begin to use it for the winter.
- Vacuum your heat registers and air return ducts. Or better yet, have a professional team clean you air duct system. If you have owned your house for several years, you may be surprised at the amount of dust and debris that can build up in your ductwork.
- Close foundation vents. If you don't have automatic foundation vents installed, you'll have to close them manually. You typically can access these vents by crawling into the crawl space beneath your house. This prevents heat loss from underneath your home during the colder months.
- Clean gutters and make sure downspouts are open. If the water can't drain, it can seep in under your shingles.
- Seal drafty doors and windows. Check caulk around windows and weather stripping around doors and replace as needed.
- Locate your snow and leaf removal tools—blowers, and plows. Make sure they're serviced and ready to go.
- Winterize or insulate exterior faucets and water lines. Schedule to have your sprinkler system serviced for the winter.
- Remove, clean, and store summertime screens.
- Check your hot water heater for leaks. You might want to consider covering your water heater with an insulation blanket to retain heat and increase efficiency.
A little preventative maintenance and some prior planning can mean fewer headaches this winter.