Many areas have already had a taste of fall weather, and Nova Scotia is not far behind. Now is the time to make sure your house and heating system are ready for winter. Here is a brief checklist to guide you through some basic tasks before real cold weather setles in and it is too late:

GROUNDS

• Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for debris or blockage.
• Repair any driveway cracks and/or heaved or settled walkways.
• Trim all trees and shrubs that are too close to the house.
• Check (ideally during a rainstorm) for rainwater drainage away from thefoundation.
• Clean and put summer furnishings away.
• Drain and store garden hoses.

EXTERIOR SURFACES

• Check weathertightness of all exterior surfaces and components.
• Check for deterioration of painted or finished areas. If too late for a full paint job, prime and touch-up bare wood surfaces.
• Caulk and seal all joints in siding, around windows and doors.
• Check and seal any foundation cracks.
• Improve weatherstripping at exterior doors and windows as needed.
• Reset storms and screens where required.
• Look for any signs of insect or pest activity around the foundation and at wood components close to the ground.

ROOF (Use binoculars or hire a professional.)

• Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.
• Check eave areas for signs of moisture build-up or damage.
• Check the condition of chimneys.
• Check flashings for signs of lifting or damage and repair as needed.
• Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.

ATTIC

• Check ventilation openings for nests or other blockage.
• Check the position and condition of insulation for uniform coverage.
• Look for any signs of excessive moisture or heat buildup.

INTERIOR ROOMS

• Check all areas for signs of roof or plumbing leakage.
• Have any fireplaces or wood stoves and flues checked and professionally cleaned.
• Reset automatic timers for the change in daylight hours.
• Check all smoke/carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if over a year old.
• Test Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters (GFCI’s) using built-in test buttons.

HEATING/COOLING SYSTEMS

• Clean all elements of the cooling system.
• Remove (or winterize) room air conditioners.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for the maintenance of your heating system.
• Change or clean heating system filters on warm air systems (now and regularly).
• Check heating and cooling systems for any evidence of water leaks.
• If present, clean and test the humidifier.
• Have your heating system serviced annually by a qualified heating serviceperson before the heating season to keep it functioning efficiently and properly.

PLUMBING

• Drain exterior water lines and open taps (in cold areas).
• Insulate water lines that are subject to freezing.
• Check the condition and temperature setting of the water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the temperature setting.
• Check the plumbing system and fixtures for any evidence of water leaks or blocked drains.
• Confirm proper operation of any sump pumps and free flow of the drain line.
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