It won’t be much longer before the snow flies. Have you finished all your fall maintenance and yard work? If not, here are some things to consider doing before November runs out. 

Inside

Furnace & chimney:   If you haven’t had a yearly cleaning/maintenance check of your furnace, book it now. It keeps your heating system running efficiently and reduces the chance of a breakdown when it’s –20 C out.

HRV:   Check the filter and outdoor intake; cleaning if necessary.

Garage:   If you’ve been parking outside all summer, the garage might be a little cluttered. Clear things out so you can bring the car back in under cover over winter.

Air leaks:   Seal cracks around doors, windows and electrical sockets with weather stripping and/or caulking, RND Construction suggests in its latest newsletter. If your windows are not airtight, reduce air leakage by adding a layer of plastic. Plastic window sealing kits are sold at most hardware stores.

Outside

Water works:  Drain outside taps, irrigation systems and rain barrels (don’t forget to tip barrels on their side). Put away hoses.  

Leaves:   If you haven’t raked them up yet, better get on it. And speaking of leaves, check your eavestroughs and downspouts to make sure they’re not clogged.

Tidy up:   Put away lawn furniture and garden tools that are still exposed to the elements. Cover your air conditioner.

Mower to blower:   If the grass doesn’t need a final trim, prep your lawn mower for the winter and store. At the same time, make sure your snow thrower is ready to go.

Garden beds:   Cut back plants (but consider leaving ones standing that won’t get buckled by the snow and will provide winter interest in the yard such as hydrangeas and sedum). Cover fragile perennials.

Lights:   Put up your Christmas lights now, before it gets really cold! That reminds me... :)