• Lighting the Pilot Light
• Safety Tips for Heating
• Cleaning Hardwood Floors

  
Lighting the Pilot Light
As fall rolls around and a chill cools the air, you want your heater to be prepared. It is a good idea to have your local utility company or service professional check out your heating system before turning it on. However, if you feel comfortable lighting your own pilot light, keep this information in mind. Pilot lights on gas water heaters,
furnaces, and room heaters work the same way. The pilot flame should always be lit; it is there to ignite the main burner on demand. To relight the pilot:

• Turn the control valve OFF, then to the PILOT position.
• Push down the red button (or on newer models, the valve handle itself) to release gas to pilot light.
• Light with a match. Do not let up on the valve for 60 seconds until the thermocouple warms up.
• Release the button and set the control to ON.
• If the heater still does not light or the pilot won't stay lit, you may have to replace the thermocouple. To get the proper replacement part, take your old thermocouple with you or call a service professional.

The relighting sequence described here may be slightly different for your heater. Be sure to follow the specific instructions for your appliance. They are usually posted on the appliance.

Safety Tips for Heating

• Keep space heaters away from flammable materials and never use them when you sleep. Make sure the wiring is sound.
• Have all alternative heating sources, such as wood stoves, examined by an expert to make sure they are functioning properly.
• Do not use the oven for heating.
• Clean and check fireplaces and chimneys regularly.

  
  Cleaning Hardwood Floors
  As the warm summer season fades into cool fall weather, homeowners have a lot to do around the house. Do not forget about what is underfoot. Test yourself with this fall cleaning stumper to help prepare your hardwood floors for the cooler and colder months ahead.

True or False?
You should clean your hardwood floors before the winter snow, ice, and rain damages them.
Answer: TRUE.
With hardwood floors, damage builds up over time, so it is a good idea to clean them before the winter sets in. To help keep your hardwood floors looking good, clean them periodically with a non-toxic, dry-cleaning product and apply liquid or paste wax after cleaning. Also consider having your hardwood floors cleaned every year by a professional to keep them looking their best.

Look for these and many more great Fall season tips at www.allabouthome.com.