With the start of fall, Puget Sound Energy offers the following checklist to consider when getting homes ready for cooler weather.

* Run the furnace to make sure it’s operating properly. Check for unusual odors or sounds, or warm, moist air escaping into the house from the furnace or vent pipe. If any of these problems exist, call a furnace technician.

* Check the chimney. Make sure it is not blocked by bird nests, leaves, dirt or obstructions that could prevent proper ventilation.

* Clean or replace dirty furnace filters. Change or clean monthly during the heating season. The furnace will run more efficiently and use less energy.

* Check filters monthly on heat pumps. Keep the indoor coil free of lint and dirt, and clean the outside coil at least twice a year.

* Check the vent pipe. Make sure the metal or plastic vent pipe is connected securely to the furnace and shows no signs of damage, soot, rust or corrosion.

* Keep furnace area clutter-free. Clean the area around the furnace to allow ventilation and prevent fire hazards. Never store corrosive or flammable materials on or near the furnace or vent pipe.

PSE also recommends customers manage heating costs by taking these simple steps to be more energy efficient.

* Seal up leaky drafts around doors and windows with weather-stripping, caulking, and door sweeps. Also seal up any leaks or gaps in furnace ducts that extend through unheated basements or crawl spaces.

* Reduce air leaks by repairing broken windows and using inexpensive weather-stripping around entry doors. Insulate attics, outside walls and floors over crawlspaces.

* Set the thermostat at the coolest level you can without making your rooms uncomfortable. For most homes, the heating bill drops by about 2 percent for every 1 degree the thermostat is lowered.

* Lower the thermostat at bedtime or while away during the day. Setting the thermostat to 58 degrees while asleep can cut a natural-gas bill by up to 7 percent.

For additional tips about making homes more energy efficient for the winter heating season, visit PSE.com or call a PSE Energy Advisor at 1-800-562-1482, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.