Preparing your home for winter can help protect it from seasonal wear and tear, reduce energy costs, and keep you and your family safe. By taking these steps, you’ll be ready to face the winter months with confidence and peace of mind.
Keep Your Home Warm and Efficient
Seal Windows and Doors
Drafts around windows and doors allow warm air to escape, driving up heating costs. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps, and consider installing storm windows or window insulation film for added protection.
Service Your Heating System
Have your furnace or boiler serviced to ensure it’s running safely and efficiently. Replace filters, and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat to manage energy use.
For heat pumps, check filters, outdoor units, and refrigerant levels, and schedule professional maintenance if needed to keep your system running safely and efficiently throughout winter.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Switch ceiling fans to spin clockwise in winter. This helps push warm air from the ceiling back into the living spaces, reducing the load on your heating system.
Protect Against Winter Damage
Inspect and Clean Gutters, Roof, and Chimney
- Gutters: Clear out leaves and debris to prevent ice dams, which can cause water damage to your roof and walls.
- Roof: Check for loose or damaged shingles, potential leaks, and clear debris. Consider a professional inspection for added peace of mind.
- Fireplace and Chimney: Have your chimney cleaned and inspected to prevent fires and carbon monoxide buildup. Ensure you have a supply of seasoned firewood if you plan to use a wood-burning fireplace.
Insulate Pipes
Wrap pipes in unheated areas like basements and garages with insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing and bursting.
Pest Control
As temperatures drop, rodents and pests seek warm shelter indoors. Check for cracks, wood rot holes, or exposed vents around your home’s perimeter.
Trim Trees and Remove Dead Branches
Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to snap, posing a risk to your home and power lines. Trim overhanging limbs and remove dead or weakened branches.
Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Winter Tools and Supplies
Be prepared for storms by keeping snow shovels, ice scrapers, snow blowers and salt or sand on hand. These items will help you clear icy walkways and driveways safely and efficiently.
Firewood
Stock up on seasoned firewood to stay warm and cozy. Properly dried wood burns more efficiently and minimizes creosote buildup in your chimney.
Prioritize Home Safety
Backup Power Options
Make sure your backup power systems are ready in case of an outage. Generators, inverters, and battery-backup systems can keep essential systems running. Check that equipment is maintained, fueled or charged, and stored safely for winter use.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly, especially if your home is sealed tightly for winter or uses gas heating or fireplaces. Replace batteries and test all units regularly.
