Quiz: Is Your Home Ready for Winter?

A fall or early winter tune-up can save you money by making your system run more efficiently and fixing small problems before they turn into major breakdowns.

Salt is the traditional way to melt ice on walkways, although experts say too much salt can harm plant roots, pets, and wildlife. Inexpensive play sand adds traction without harming pets or plants, though it will linger until you clean it up. Non-clumping cat litter can also work in a pinch. Electric mats can be a worthwhile investment for keeping steps and high-traffic pathways ice-free.

Foam covers that insulate hose faucets from freezes are a bargain, especially compared to the cost of a plumber's visit to fix a burst pipe in your wall. Pick some up now and you can leave them in place from first frost till spring thaw.

Don't wait for downed limbs and property damage to call in the tree crew. Removing damaged and overhanging branches can prevent costly storm damage to your home — and your neighbors'.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends yearly cleaning and inspection of home fireplaces and chimneys, and fall is an ideal time to do that. The Chimney Safety Institute of America also recommends cleaning when soot builds up to 1/8 inch or more in open-masonry chimneys. If you use your fireplace a lot during the winter, talk to your chimney sweep about the proper cleaning schedule.