Winter is a time for cozy evenings by the fire, holiday cheer, and frosty mornings—but it’s also a season that can be tough on your home. Preparing your house for winter’s challenges can save you time, money, and stress down the road. Here’s a comprehensive guide to winter home maintenance that will help keep your home warm, safe, and efficient.
1. Inspect Your Heating System
Your heating system will be working overtime during the colder months, so make sure it’s up to the task.
- Schedule a professional inspection: Have your HVAC system checked and serviced before temperatures drop significantly.
- Replace filters: Dirty filters reduce efficiency and air quality, so replace them every 1-3 months during heavy use.
- Test your thermostat: Ensure it’s functioning properly and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control and energy savings.
2. Seal Drafts and Insulate
Cold drafts can make your home uncomfortable and increase heating costs.
- Check windows and doors: Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal gaps around windows and doors.
- Add insulation: Ensure your attic, basement, and walls are adequately insulated to prevent heat loss.
- Install draft stoppers: Use door sweeps or draft stoppers at the base of exterior doors.
3. Protect Your Plumbing
Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs.
- Insulate pipes: Wrap pipes in unheated areas with foam insulation or heat tape.
- Let faucets drip: On particularly cold nights, let faucets drip slightly to prevent freezing.
- Disconnect hoses: Drain and store garden hoses, and shut off exterior water valves to prevent freezing in outdoor plumbing.
4. Prepare Your Roof and Gutters
Snow, ice, and water can wreak havoc on your roof if you’re not prepared.
- Clean gutters and downspouts: Remove leaves and debris to prevent ice dams.
- Inspect your roof: Look for loose or missing shingles and repair them to avoid leaks.
- Install gutter guards: These can help reduce the accumulation of debris.
5. Test Safety Devices
Winter means increased use of heating devices and candles, so ensure your home’s safety systems are functioning.
- Check smoke detectors: Replace batteries and test alarms to ensure they’re working.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors: Heating systems can produce carbon monoxide; having detectors can save lives.
- Inspect fire extinguishers: Make sure they’re fully charged and easily accessible.
6. Maintain Your Fireplace and Chimney
A cozy fire is a winter staple, but it’s important to ensure your fireplace is safe to use.
- Clean the chimney: Schedule a professional cleaning to remove creosote buildup, which can be a fire hazard.
- Check the damper: Make sure it opens and closes properly.
- Stock up on firewood: Keep it dry and stored away from your home to prevent pests.
7. Winterize Outdoor Spaces
Don’t forget about areas outside your home.
- Store outdoor furniture: Protect patio furniture by storing it indoors or covering it with waterproof materials.
- Inspect walkways and driveways: Repair cracks to prevent further damage from freezing and thawing cycles.
- Stock up on supplies: Have salt or sand ready to de-ice walkways and driveways.
8. Monitor Energy Usage
Cold weather often leads to higher energy bills, but a few adjustments can help.
- Use heavy curtains: Keep curtains closed at night to retain heat and open them during the day to let in sunlight.
- Upgrade windows: If possible, install energy-efficient windows or use window film for extra insulation.
- Seal ducts: Ensure heating ducts are sealed properly to prevent heat loss.
9. Check Emergency Supplies
Winter storms can lead to power outages, so be prepared.
- Stock up on essentials: Have flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and extra blankets on hand.
- Invest in a generator: If you live in an area prone to outages, a backup generator can be a lifesaver.
- Keep salt or sand handy: Use it to treat icy sidewalks and driveways to prevent accidents.
By taking the time to address these winter home maintenance tasks, you’ll not only protect your home from the elements but also create a warm and safe environment for your family. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free winter season. Stay warm!
Chris Olen REALTOR® 
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