1. Check weather strip on exterior doors and windows and feel for drafts. Replace or caulk as necessary
2. Test your furnace to ensure proper operation. Consider replacing your thermostat with a programmable one
3. Walk the exterior of your home and look for cracks or open penetrations especially around vents and A/C lines. Use caulk or spray foam to fill those cracks.
4. Ensure that the water supply line and hose bibs are properly insulated to avoid freezing and bursting at cold temperatures. Repair damaged insulation or use foam covers.
5. Check fireplace operation. Open and close damper (ensure open when in use), check flue pipe for obstructions (like birds nests). Have professionally cleaned when necessary.
6. Perform a Winter clean-up: drain or remove water hoses, trim tree limbs over home or cars, which could break if they ice over, check garage/outside areas for items that may freeze like paint or house plants.
7. Clean your gutters. Remove leaves and debris that may prevent the proper drainage of the roof system, especially if ice or snow is expected.
8. Reverse the direction of any interior ceiling fans. Most fans have a switch, near the motor, which allows for this. It will help push warmer air down toward the floor.
9. Check the Attic. Look for areas where the insulation may be low or missing and add where needed. Also, feel around the furnace ducts to find any leaks- use foil tape or mastic to repair.
10. Contact your local pest control company. During the winter months many insects and rodents seek the inside warmth of homes.

Here are a few other things that are good to do at the same time:

1. Check smoke detector batteries.
2. Replace A/C filters.
3. Ensure you have a working fire extinguisher and flashlights.
4. Identify the location of the primary water shut-off valve, gas shut-off valve and main electrical breakers.
5. Keep a small bag of rock-salt or sand available to put down in case sidewalks get covered with ice.
6. Ensure you have a first aid kit or medical supplies on hand.