1   ENERGY EFFICIENCY "TOP TEN LIST" FOR NEW HOMEOWNERS Clean furnace filters every month. Turn the furnace on to test its operation before weather gets cold. Consider purchase of an electrostatic filter or alternate filters. 2 After leaves fall, clean gutters. Look for water stains around soffits or eaves - indications of ice damage, blocked or leaky gutters, or roof flashing failure. 3 Don't put salt on concrete drive or walkways. Look for concrete safe products. 4 When landscaping, make sure the grade falls away from foundations of your house. 5 Read the services warranty before anything happens. 6 Keep a services contract on the A/C and heating units. 7 Turn off and drain any outside hose bibs in winter to prevent them from freezing. 8 If any drains are located in a basement walk-out, keep them clear to prevent water from entering the basement. Keep sump pump pit clear of debris as well. 9 Test your smoke detector. Vacuum the outside of the unit to clean it. Replace backup batteries. Mark your calendar to do this each quarter so you will have an automatic reminder. 10 Save your utility bills! You'll have solid data on the performance of your home - very handy when it comes time to sell!