• Clean the furnace filter to remove dust build-ups, make it easier to regulate your home's temperature, and ultimately decrease energy bills.

• Check the water softener and replenish salt if necessary.

• Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove mineral deposits.

• Inspect tub and sink drains for debris; unclog if necessary.

• Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and all ground-fault circuit interrupters.

• Inspect electrical cords for wear.

• Vacuum heat registers and heat vents.

• Check that indoor and outdoor air vents are not blocked.

• Flush out hot water from the water heater to remove accumulated sediment.

• Clean the garbage disposal by grinding ice cubes, then flushing with hot water and baking soda.

• Rake leaves and aerate the lawn.

• Have the forced-air heating system inspected by a professional. Schedule an inspection in late summer or early fall before the heating season begins.

• Check the fireplace for damage or hazards and clean fireplace flues.

• Seal cracks and gaps in windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping; replace if necessary.

• Swap old, drafty windows for more energy-efficient models.

• Touch up exterior siding and trim with paint.

• Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.

• Power-wash windows and siding.

• Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.

• Mend cracks and gaps in the driveway and walkway.

• Drain and winterize exterior plumbing.

• Have your fireplace professionally inspected.

• Tune-up major home appliances before the holidays.

• Repair or replace siding.

• Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Install a smoke detector on every floor of your home, including the basement.

• Clean the carpets.

• Clean window and door screens.

• Vacuum lint from the dryer vent.

• Inspect exterior door hardware; fix squeaky handles and loose locks.

• Check for frayed cords and wires.

• Drain and store hoses, and drain in-ground sprinkler systems.

• Wrap insulation around outdoor faucets and pipes in unheated garages.

• Check the water heater for leaks.

• Cover your air-conditioning unit.

• Check the basement for leaks during thaws.

• Inspect the roof, gutters, and downspouts for damage after storms.

• Vacuum bathroom exhaust fan grill.

• Vacuum refrigerator and freezer coils and empty and clean drip trays.

• Clean drains in sinks, tubs, showers, and dishwashers.

• Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.

• Change the air-conditioner filter.

• Clean window and door screens.

• Polish wood furniture and dust light fixtures.

• Refinish the deck.

• Power-wash windows and siding.

• Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.

• Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Have a professional inspect and pump the septic tank.

• Inspect sink, shower, and bath caulking for deterioration.

• Vacuum lint from the dryer vent.

• Inspect chimney for damage.

• Repair or replace caulking and weather stripping around windows, doors, and mechanicals.

• Remove the insulation from outdoor faucets and check sprinkler heads.

• Have air-conditioning system serviced.

• Drain or flush the water heater.

• Fertilize your lawn.

• Oil garage-door opener and chain, garage door, and all door hinges.

• Remove lint from inside and outside washer hoses and dryer vents.

• Clean kitchen exhaust fan filter.

• Clean refrigerator and freezer coils and empty and clean drip trays.

• Check the dishwasher for leaks.

• Check around kitchen and bathroom cabinets and around toilets for leaks.

• Replace interior and exterior faucet and showerhead washers if needed.

• Seal tile grout.

• Prune trees and shrubs.