Winter can be tough on your home, but a little preparation goes a long way. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can cause costly damage if your home isn’t ready. By tackling a few key maintenance tasks before winter fully sets in, you can protect your home, lower energy bills, and stay comfortable all season long.
1. Protect Your Home’s Exterior
Your home’s exterior is the first line of defense against winter weather. Start by disconnecting and draining outdoor hoses to prevent frozen pipes. If your home has exterior shut‑off valves, turn them off and insulate exposed pipes with foam covers or heat tape. Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure melting snow can drain properly and won’t back up near your foundation.
Take time to inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles and seal gaps around flashing. If you have a chimney, installing a chimney cap can help keep snow, debris, and animals out during the winter months.
2. Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation
Cold air leaks force your heating system to work harder and raise energy bills. Check around windows, doors, and siding for gaps, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. Adding insulation to attics, crawl spaces, and basements can dramatically improve heat retention.
For added warmth, consider thermal curtains or insulated window coverings to reduce heat loss on frigid days.
3. Prepare Your Heating System
Your heating system works overtime in winter, so proper maintenance is essential. Schedule a professional inspection for your furnace or boiler before the coldest weather arrives. Replace HVAC filters regularly to keep airflow efficient and maintain good indoor air quality.
If you use radiators, bleed them to remove trapped air and ensure even heating throughout your home.
4. Prevent Frozen Pipes Indoors
Frozen pipes are one of the most common—and expensive—winter issues. Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to help warm air circulate around plumbing. During extreme cold, allow faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving. Always maintain indoor temperatures above 55°F (13°C), even when you’re away from home.
5. Focus on Winter Safety
Winter preparation isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about safety. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries as needed. Ensure all vents, including dryer and furnace vents, are clear of debris and snow.
If you use space heaters, keep them at least three feet from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. It's also smart to know how to shut off your home’s water and gas in case of emergency.
6. Get Ready for Snow and Ice
Before the first storm hits, make sure you have snow shovels, pet‑safe ice melt, and other winter tools on hand. Keeping walkways and driveways clear reduces fall risks and keeps your home accessible during icy conditions.
Final Thoughts
Winter home maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By preparing early, you can avoid expensive repairs, boost energy efficiency, and enjoy a warmer, safer home throughout the season. A little effort now can save you stress—and money—later.
