Heating and fireplace
Schedule a furnace or heat pump tune-up and replace filters. Have the chimney inspected and cleaned before the first fire.
Test your thermostat and carbon monoxide detectors.
Protect pipes and the exterior
Disconnect hoses and shut off outdoor faucets. Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces and garages. Know where your main water shutoff is.
Seal gaps and caulk around windows and doors.
Gutters, roof and trees
Clean gutters after leaves fall. Check the roof and have heavy limbs trimmed before winter ice. Check attic insulation and ventilation.
Blow out irrigation lines if you have a sprinkler system.
Lawn and landscape
Early fall is the time to aerate and overseed fescue lawns. Plant trees and shrubs, mulch beds and cut back perennials.
Store outdoor furniture and clean the grill.
