Winter can be tough on your home — but with a little prep, you can avoid damage, save money on energy bills, and actually enjoy a cozy season instead of dealing with expensive repairs. Think of this as your winter homeowner’s checklist: some of these you can easily DIY, and for others, it’s worth calling in the pros.
Doors, Windows & Attic
Keep the warmth in and the cold drafts out.
- Add or replace weather-stripping around doors and windows.
- Caulk around window frames to seal up gaps.
- Swap out screens for storm windows if you have them.
- Install a storm door if your entry needs extra protection.
- Switch to heavier curtains or shades for extra insulation.
- Check attic insulation (cellulose can be more effective than fiberglass).
Chimney
Planning on cozy fires? Make sure your fireplace is ready first.
- Hire a pro to inspect and clean your chimney.
- Keep the damper closed when not in use (but open before lighting!).
- Add a cap or screen at the top to keep critters out.
- Store firewood away from the house — woodpiles attract unwanted guests.
- Consider a gas fireplace upgrade — they’re much easier (and cleaner) than ever.
Furnace, Ducts & AC Units
No one wants a freezing house in January. Stay ahead of it.
- Schedule a furnace inspection and cleaning with an HVAC pro. A service contract can give you priority help if something breaks.
- Stock up on furnace filters and swap them out monthly (set a reminder!).
- Drain AC pipes and shut off their valves if applicable.
- Have ducts inspected for leaks and cleaned if necessary.
- Insulate ducts in unheated spaces.
- Remove and store window AC units.
Thermostat
Small tweaks = big savings.
- Install a programmable or smart thermostat to lower temps when you’re away or asleep.
- Never set it below 55°F — frozen pipes are way more expensive than heating bills.
Outdoor / Exterior Tasks
Winter weather is rough outside too.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to avoid ice dams and water damage.
- Trim tree branches near your roof or power lines.
- Drain and store garden hoses.
- Winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems.
- Cover or store outdoor furniture and potted plants.
- Seal foundation cracks to keep out mice.
- Use pet-friendly salt or de-icer on walkways and driveways.
- Be careful with composite decks — ice can make them extra slippery.
Be Ready for Severe Weather
Power outages happen. Stock up before the storm.
- Flashlights, batteries, first-aid kits, and battery-operated candles.
- Fully charge your cell phone before a storm.
- Keep bottled water, nonperishable food, blankets, and necessary meds on hand (don’t forget pets!).
- Have a shovel and ice melt ready.
- Consider a generator if your area loses power often.
- Keep utility company phone numbers handy.
Fire & Carbon Monoxide Safety
A warm home should also be a safe one.
- Test smoke and CO detector batteries monthly.
- Be careful with space heaters (never leave them unattended).
- Keep grills, camp stoves, and generators outside only.
- Never use ovens or stoves to heat your home.
- Don’t idle cars in garages — even with the door open.
Final Word
A little effort now means fewer headaches later. By taking the time to winterize, you’re protecting your investment, saving money, and setting yourself up for a safe, cozy, and stress-free season. Stay warm out there!
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