It has finally cooled down here in San Antonio, and it looks like we may be done with hot weather for awhile!  Finally!  Now that fall seems to have arrived (the South Texas version!), winter is right around the corner.  Time to get things ready for cooler/cold weather!  To protect your home (and your investment), here are a few routine and seasonal maintenance items to keep your home in top shape and make sure everyone in it stays warm and comfortable.

Have your furnace or heating system serviced by a qualified service company.  Have someone come in and check your pilot light (for gas heaters), turn on the system to be sure it’s working correctly, and clean it up so it works efficiently.

If you have a fireplace, this is a good time to check your chimney for any obstructions like bird nests.  If it’s been awhile since you’ve had your chimney cleaned, this would be a good time to have that work done as well.

Check and clean/replace air filters so that air can flow freely and cleanly.

Be sure bathroom and range hood exhaust fans are operating properly.

This is a good time to check and/or replace batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors!

Check the weatherstipping around doors, windows, skylights.  Keep your warm air in and the cold air out!

If you have a door from the house into your garage, check to be sure it closes tightly.  Do you have a self-closer on that door?  Be sure it’s closing the door completely.

Outside–clean leaves and debris from gutters.  Drain and store hoses.

Wrap your hose bibbs if you anticipate freezing temperatures in your area.

Get your plants ready by giving them some extra mulch to protect their roots.

Store outdoor furniture or cover it.   If you have window air conditioners, cover the outside portion.

By taking these precautions now, you’ll save yourself money and hassle when Old Man Winter comes visiting!