Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

Here’s a handy winter home maintenance checklist to help keep your home safe, warm, and energy-efficient during the cold months

Indoor Winter Prep

  1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors

    • Check for drafts and seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk.

    • Consider adding insulation film to windows to reduce heat loss.

  2. Check Heating System

    • Replace furnace filters for optimal performance.

    • Schedule a professional inspection to clean and tune the furnace.

    • Test and clean radiators, baseboards, or vents.

  3. Inspect Fireplace and Chimney

    • Clean the fireplace, check for creosote buildup, and schedule a chimney sweep.

    • Check flue dampers to ensure they’re functional and seal tightly.

  4. Clean Humidifier

    • Clean or replace filters and add new water regularly to prevent mold.

  5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

    • Check and replace batteries.

    • Ensure detectors are in working order for added winter safety.

  6. Reverse Ceiling Fans

    • Set fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed to push warm air down.

  7. Insulate Pipes

    • Wrap exposed pipes in attics, basements, or crawl spaces to prevent freezing.

  8. Stock Up on Essentials

    • Ensure you have a good supply of ice melt, salt, and sand for winter walkways.

    • Keep emergency supplies on hand in case of power outages (flashlights, batteries, blankets, etc.).

Outdoor Winter Prep

  1. Drain and Store Garden Hoses

    • Shut off exterior water valves and drain hoses to prevent freezing.

  2. Clear Gutters and Downspouts

    • Remove leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and ensure proper drainage.

  3. Check the Roof for Loose Shingles or Leaks

    • Repair damaged areas to avoid leaks from melting snow and ice buildup.

  4. Trim Trees and Branches

    • Prune any limbs that could break from ice or snow and damage your home.

  5. Check Outdoor Lighting

    • Replace burnt-out bulbs to keep paths well-lit and safe.

  6. Inspect and Winterize Outdoor HVAC Unit

    • Clean and cover AC units to protect them from snow and ice buildup.

  7. Protect Patio Furniture

    • Clean and store or cover outdoor furniture to prevent weather damage.

  8. Check Walkways and Driveway for Cracks

    • Repair cracks to prevent water from seeping in and freezing, which could expand and cause further damage.

Following this checklist will help keep your home winter-ready and save on energy costs, while protecting against common cold-weather issues.

Adrienne Towner