Pumpkins, Plugs, and Peace of Mind: 7 Tiny Moves That Pay You Back

Halloween’s done. The pumpkins are slumping, extension cords are everywhere, and your furnace is about to clock in full-time. Here’s a fast reset your future self will thank you for.

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1) Compost the pumpkins

Keep organics out of the landfill and off your tree lawn. Cuyahoga County runs seasonal pumpkin drop-offs right after Halloween for pumpkin composting —check locations before you drive. cuyahogarecycles.org

2) Swap the furnace filter

A clean filter protects your system and cuts waste. Check monthly; replace at least every 3 months. If you host a block “filter hour,” everyone saves. ENERGY STAR

3) Battery sanity check

Charge lithium-ion packs (leaf blowers, décor, scooters) on hard, non-flammable surfaces with the right charger. Store away from heat. Simple, boring, safe. NFPA+1

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4) Radon test season is coming

Colder weather = closed windows = good testing conditions. Ohio Dept. of Health advises testing to know your number; under 4 pCi/L is the EPA action threshold, but closer to 2 is ideal. odh.ohio.gov+1

5) Set a porch-light curfew

Put décor on a smart plug and set auto-off for 10 pm. Pair with a weather-rated GFCI cover and you’ll avoid midnight “why is it still glowing?” moments.

6) Grab the 2025 credits

If a heat pump water heater is on your list, the 30% credit (up to $2,000) is active; overall annual cap $3,200 across eligible improvements. Keep receipts and model numbers; file with Form 5695. ENERGY STAR+2IRS+2

7) Weatherize before the first deep freeze

If your household qualifies, Ohio’s Weatherization Assistance can cover air sealing, insulation, and more. Even if you don’t, a neighborhood sealing day—top plates, attic hatches, rim joists—pays back all winter. Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel

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