If your home uses a tank water heater, it’s important to flush it out at least once a year. Small particles, dirt and other sediment collects at the bottom of your water heater throughout the year, and these things can have a dramatic effect on your unit’s overall efficiency. And this task is easy enough to perform that you can do it yourself! Check your manual for specific instructions, but the process is as simple as flushing water through the drain valve to clean everything out.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Icicles on the side of your home may look pretty, but they really can cause significant water damage when things begin to thaw out. The main culprits of what are commonly referred to as “ice dams” on the edges of your house are clogged gutters. Fall is the perfect time to remove all of the leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts. This ensures that water can freely flow rather than being trapped and freezing up during the winter months. This one thing can help save thousands of dollars in repairs down the road.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Take the time to go around your house and unscrew lightbulbs to give them a good dusting. Dust that builds up on top of lightbulbs can be a safety hazard if sparks fly, but more commonly the dust covering limits the amount of light the bulb emits. The EPA estimates a coating of dust on a lightbulb can reduce light output by as much as 50%. For maximum light output and safety, make it part of your regular household cleaning routine to give all of your lightbulbs a thorough dusting!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION