October home maintenance checklist

• Shut off and drain the outdoor taps DIY
  Close the shut-off valve inside the house, then open the outside tap to drain it and leave it open. Do this before the first hard frost. How to prevent frozen pipes →
• Clean the eavestroughs after the leaves drop DIY or pro
  Gutters clogged with leaves overflow in fall rain and freeze solid in winter, which leads to ice dams. Eavestrough cost guide →
• Disconnect and store garden hoses DIY
  A hose left connected traps water in the tap and can split the pipe inside the wall when it freezes. Have irrigation lines blown out by a pro.
• Get the chimney or fireplace checked Pro
  Wood-burning fireplaces and stoves need regular sweeping. Gas fireplaces should be checked by a licensed gas technician.
• Reverse ceiling fans DIY
  Set ceiling fans to turn clockwise on low. It pushes warm air down from the ceiling without creating a draft.
• Check the garage door seal DIY
  Replace a cracked or flattened bottom seal so snow, water and mice stay out of the garage. Garage door guide →

General guidance for typical GTA houses. Follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions, and call a licensed pro for gas, electrical and anything on a roof.