Once winter sets in, it’s essential to keep your home running smoothly through the colder months. The winter weather can put extra strain on your home, from freezing temperatures to heavy snow. Here are some key tasks to keep your house comfortable, safe, and efficient during winter.
1. Monitor Your Heating System
Throughout winter, it’s vital to make sure your heating system is working efficiently. Regularly check the temperature settings and ensure the furnace or heat pump is running properly. If you notice cold spots in your home or inconsistent heating, it may be time for a professional check-up. Don’t forget to change or clean your air filter every month. A clogged filter can reduce airflow, making your system work harder and causing higher energy bills.
2. Prevent Frozen Pipes
Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze, leading to burst pipes and water damage. To avoid this, open cabinet doors beneath sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Keep a slow drip on faucets connected to exterior pipes to prevent freezing. If you experience extreme cold, you can also insulate vulnerable pipes, especially those in unheated areas like attics and basements, using pipe insulation or heat tape.
3. Remove Snow and Ice from Walkways and Roofs
Snow and ice can accumulate quickly during winter, creating hazards around your home. Regularly shovel your walkways, driveway, and stairs to prevent slippery surfaces that can cause accidents. Use ice melt or sand to treat areas that tend to ice over.
On your roof, look out for the buildup of snow and ice dams, which can cause leaks if water gets trapped behind the snow. If snow accumulates heavily, use a roof rake to gently remove it, or contact a professional to clear off the ice dams safely. This is especially important if you have an older roof or if you’re experiencing repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
4. Check Weatherproofing
Even after you’ve done the initial winterizing, it’s a good idea to keep checking for drafts. As the temperature drops, gaps around windows and doors can let cold air in. Check the weatherstripping and seals around windows and doors, and replace or add more if necessary. Consider using heavy curtains or drapes to keep the warmth inside and prevent heat loss.
5. Keep Your Gutters Clear
While it’s common to clean gutters before winter, it’s still important to keep them clear during winter months. As snow melts and refreezes, ice can form in the gutters, blocking proper drainage. Clear any debris regularly, and check the downspouts to ensure water is flowing freely. This prevents ice dams from forming and causing potential leaks in your roof.
6. Maintain Your Fireplace and Chimney
If you’re using a fireplace to heat your home, be sure to maintain it regularly. Check the chimney for any build-up or obstructions, such as animal nests, which can prevent proper ventilation and pose a fire hazard. Clean your fireplace, inspect the flue, and ensure there are no cracks that could lead to smoke infiltration. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when using the fireplace for safety.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With the heating system running and the increased use of fireplaces, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning rises during the winter months. Test both your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly. Replace batteries if necessary, and consider upgrading to a combination smoke and CO detector for better protection.
8. Keep Emergency Supplies Handy
Winter storms can lead to power outages and hazardous driving conditions, so it’s wise to keep some emergency supplies on hand. Have a stocked emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, blankets, bottled water, canned food, and a portable phone charger. Keep your vehicle winter-ready with warm clothing, extra blankets, and non-perishable snacks in case of an emergency.
By staying on top of these winter maintenance tasks, you can keep your home safe and comfortable throughout the cold season. Taking care of your heating system, pipes, roof, and emergency supplies will not only help you avoid costly repairs but also ensure you can relax and enjoy winter without worry.
