And with the recent arrival of fall, home improvement experts are encouraging those who have yet to shift into “cool-season mode” to do so before the especially cold months arrive.

With this in mind, U.S.-based online home improvement retailer Build.com has supplied homeowners throughout North America with some suggestions for what they can do to make the shift into more seasonable conditions less difficult.

Clean heating units, consider upgrading thermostat

One of the biggest expenses homeowners face in the winter months are home heating bills, as oils prices have skyrocketed. This has led to many people turning to alternative sources for warmth, such as fireplaces and coal stoves. The home improvement website indicates homeowners should be sure to clean their fireplaces and other heating units, as there may be flammable material or buildup that formed since they were last used.

Others, though, may be more comfortable with the ease and convenience of using the thermostat to adjust a residence’s temperature. Build.com notes that there are a variety of thermostats that can be purchased that are pre-programmed, so that they’re set to go on or off at certain times of the day or night. This can dramatically reduce utility bills.

Consider trading in the rake for a leafblower

While some enjoy fall for the drier air conditions and crisp temperatures, virtually everyone enjoys the brilliant colors that form on foliage, including bright shades of red, yellow and orange. As nice as these are to look at, though, they can make for backbreaking work when they fall to the ground, covering finely manicured lawns with debris. Build.com says instead of raking up the leaves, homeowners may be better off purchasing a leaf blower. This can make leaf collection that much easier so it can be bagged and thrown away or emptied in a nearby wooded area.

Clean gutters

Home improvement experts note that falling leaves can also be liability, potentially increasing the risk of a home insurance claim if leaves clog gutters should an unexpected event, such as a fire, occur. Leaves are highly flammable, but these fuel sources can be removed by being sure to check the gutters occasionally to ensure that they don’t get bogged down with debris.

Space heaters are great additions when used appropriately

As the fall season inches toward winter, temperatures tend to get cooler and cooler, making it especially difficult for people who are sensitive to cold. But homeowners may be loath to turn their thermostat up an extra degree, not wanting to pay the added expense. The online home improvement retailer says homeowners can help take the edge off by purchasing an electric heater. This may increase the electric bill modestly, but the cost is usually a fraction of oil bills and will delay the time needed to have the tank refilled.

However, there are risks that come with electric heaters if they’re left on for too long, are unattended or something flammable is draped on it nearby. According to Fire Protection Canada, fires kill eight people every week, 73 percent of which are residential and occasionally caused by space heaters.

Fire Prevention Week in Canada is recognized October 7 – 13. Homeowners may want to take advantage of this period to learn more about the ways in which they can protect their homes as the prime season for home fires approaches.