As much as we would love for the beautiful fall weather to stay forever, winter is on its way. It's never too early to prep your home for the upcoming season. Is your home ready to tackle the cold months ahead? Here are a few winter home maintenance ideas to add to your list!

Check the fireplace & chimney

Similar to dryer hoses, clogged chimneys lead to house fires, but they can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Having a yearly inspection and chimney sweep may cost you money, but it could also save your life. Additionally, make sure the flue on your chimney is fully functional so when the fireplace is not in use, you don't experience drafts.

Reverse you fans

Turning your fans clockwise is a secret to saving money on heat in the winter since it will stop the warm air from rising and keep it down where you want it to be. Most ceiling fans have a switch that you can simply flip to reverse it. If the switch is not easily accessible on the outside of the fan, it may be somewhere inside.

Stock Up on salt & sand

Driveway salt and sand is one item that will sell quickly during and before winter. Have you seen it currently available at your local hardware store? Grab a few bags!

Clean your dryer hose

Clogged dryer hoses pose huge fire hazards. Prevent house fires by cleaning your lint filter, emptying or replacing your dryer hose, and regularly checking the vent and exhaust.

Protect patio furniture

Protecting your patio furniture is key to making sure it's in perfect condition for you next year. It's best practice to store your patio set and any outdoor furniture in a shed or indoor storage space. Don't have either? Cover it all with a tarp large enough to protect it from the snow and wind.

Keep the heat on

Always keep the heat on. Even when you go away. By doing so you can keep your pipes warm and prevent them from freezing, while also saving money on having your heating system work extra hard when you return to bring the house back up to room temperature. Updating your thermostat (if you haven't already) to a programmable version so you can set the house for one temp when you're home, and another for when you're away.

Weatherproof your doors & windows

It's important to get ahead of the winter weather and make sure your home is ready to handle the cold to come. Check your doors and windows closely for gaps and areas that may cause a draft. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up, or consider replacing the windows or doors if the problem is severe enough.

Protect entryways

With winter comes snow, ice and water. Having proper floor mats both indoors and outdoors will help maintain your floor and protect it from damage. Make sure to also have a spot to let your winter boots, hats and mitts dry!

Ready shovels, check snow blower

Along with sand and salt, shovels and snow blowers are one of the first thing to go at hardware stores. Give your snow blower a test run to make sure it's ready to go when the snow hits! Don't forget to check your shovel for cracks and any sign of damage.

Protect the air conditioner

Even though air conditioner units are built for outdoor elements, they can still be damaged by falling icicles and other debris. Place a sheet of plywood held down by a few bricks on top and your AC should be ready to work again in the spring. Many manufacturers recommend against a waterproof cover, because it creates a warm space for critters

Clear gutters

If you haven't already, clear your gutters of debris including sticks and leaves so melted snow will drain properly. Don't forget to direct your downspouts away from your home's foundation to help prevent basement leaks and flooding.