Cooler temperatures are on their way. To help your space feel cozier all season long, follow these fall maintenance guide recommendations.

On or around the first day of October:

Indoor

• Have an HVAC professional inspect and calibrate your heating.

• Vacuum and clean window and sliding door tracks, and lubricate where necessary with silicone spray.

• Drain and flush out hot water heater and verify that pressure relief valve is working (carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions).

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when you set clocks back in the fall.

• Check windows and doors for weather-tightness and repair weather stripping as needed.

Outdoor

• Clean gutters, downspouts, and roof eaves to remove leaves and debris.

• Assess all exterior paint and caulk; check exterior caulk seals around windows, doors, etc.

• Before the first freeze, disconnect exterior hoses and devices from hose bibs; if possible, shut off water to bib and drain.

• Prior to winter, flush out and drain the sprinkler system.

• Rake leaves and shred to use as mulch or dispose of them based on local guidelines.

• Store outdoor furniture and cushions.