Cooler temperatures require making a few changes to your Las Vegas lifestyle, from adding an extra layer of clothing, to preparing your home for the fall and winter. If you're uncertain where to begin, or which areas of your home will benefit most from some timely attention, here is a list of fall home maintenance tips, to get you started.

Turn up the heat. Before you turn on your heating system for the first time, schedule an equipment inspection and duct cleaning. Performing these services early in the season can help detect minor issues before they become big ones, and a system and duct cleaning will help your family breathe easier all winter long.

Keep up with filter changes. Air filters should be changed every four to six weeks, to keep your heating system and indoor air clean.

Change the batteries. As part of fall home maintenance, change out the batteries in your smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they're in good working order if you need them.

Check for leaks. Air leaks around doors and windows can cause discomfort, and contribute to unnecessarily high energy bills. Test for leaks on a windy day, using a piece of tissue paper, and seal leaks with caulking or weatherstripping where needed.

Inspect your roof. One of the most important fall home maintenance tips, is to have your roof professionally inspected, to check for leaks, visually inspect gutters and downspouts for signs of blockage, repair any holes, assess the condition of your shingles, and more.

Switch directions. Your ceiling fans work hard year round, providing a cool breeze in the summer months, and redistributing warm air in the winter. During heating season, change the direction to clockwise, to cut down on heating costs and increase comfort.

Program your thermostat. Change the settings on your programmable thermostat to reflect any changes in your schedule, and to adjust the temperature. Be sure to switch over from "Cool" to "Heat", and avoid using the override button to conserve energy.

Prepare your landscaping. Aerate, fertilize, and mow your lawn in early October, fertilizing again in November, for a lush green lawn in the spring. Clean up the yard, disconnecting and draining garden hoses when not in use, and if you have a pool, contact your maintenance provider about winterization.

Taking the time to complete all the items on your fall home maintenance checklist now, will keep your family warm and comfortable, through the chilly winter months. Call First Quality Roofing & Insulation at 702-262-7847, for a comprehensive 17-point roof inspection, to help identify any needed repairs, and prevent further issues before they arise.