Dreading the winter and all the home preparation that comes with it? Don’t worry–we’ve got you covered! Stay safe and warm with our 10 essential home maintenance tips for winter that will keep your energy usage lower and your home protected from the weather.
1. Seal Those Gaps
Check doors and windows for drafts and add weatherstripping to stay warmer and save on heating costs.
Need help? Here’s a handy guide on how to correctly weatherstrip a door.
2. Protect Your Pipes
Insulate exposed pipes and let faucets drip on the coldest nights to prevent freezing. Don’t forget to disconnect and store garden hoses.
3. Service Your Heating System
Ensure your heating system is running efficiently—clean filters can make a big difference! If you really want to be on the ball, schedule a professional inspection of your furnace or HVAC system before temperatures drop.
If you use a fireplace, have the chimney professionally cleaned to remove creosote buildup, which can cause fires. Ensure the damper is working properly and closed when not in use to prevent drafts.
4. Clear Gutters and Check on the Roof
Remove debris from gutters to avoid ice dams that can cause costly roof damage. Check your roof for loose or damaged shingles that need repair.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Dioxide Detectors Monthly
With increased use of heating appliances, the risk of carbon monoxide leaks rises. Test detectors monthly and ensure you have one on every floor. And be sure to keep extra batteries on hand–there’s nothing worse than that chirping noise!
6. Maintain Driveways, Sidewalks, and Other Outdoor Spaces
Remove snow and ice promptly from driveways, sidewalks, and steps to prevent accidents. Use sand or ice melt for traction. Don’t forget about your outdoor furniture and grills–you’ll want to store and cover them.
7. Reverse Ceiling Fans
You may not think this could make much of a difference, but it does! In the wintertime, you’ll want to switch your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This helps push warm air down into the room, improving heating efficiency.
8. Prepare Your Basement
If you have a basement, you’ll want to make sure your sump pump is in working order. This will keep the water out during snowmelts, preventing mold from forming and protecting your home’s foundation.
9. Check Insulation
Check your attic, walls, and basement for adequate insulation. Proper insulation prevents heat loss, lowers energy bills, and reduces the risk of ice dams forming on the roof, which can lead to roof damage. In other words, a little preparation can go a long way.
10. Stock up for Power Outages
No matter how well you prepare your home for winter, there’s no stopping Mother Nature. Stock up on essentials like flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, blankets, and hand warmers. If you really want to prepare, consider investing in a generator.
Final Thoughts on Winter Home Maintenance Tips
By staying on top of your home maintenance with these winterizing tips, you can protect your home, save on energy costs, and enjoy a safe, warm winter.
