How to Winterize Your House: 15 Winter Home Tips
Winter is right around the corner, and for homeowners, that means it’s time to gear up to keep your home cozy, safe, and energy-efficient. Whether you’re prepping for a cold snap in a snowy state or just want to ensure your home is in top shape, these tips to winterize your house will help you save energy, protect your home, and avoid any unwelcome surprises from Jack Frost.
15 Tips to Winterize Your House
1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
Drafts from windows and doors can cause heating costs to skyrocket. Run your hand around the edges of windows and doors – if you feel a breeze, it’s time for some weather-stripping or caulking. This small fix can make a big difference in your heating bill!
2. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can lead to serious water damage. After the leaves fall, clean your gutters to prevent ice dams and ensure water flows freely. If you don’t want to DIY, many services can handle this task.
3. Service Your Heating System
A well-functioning furnace or boiler is crucial. Call in a pro to inspect and service your system before it gets super cold. Regular maintenance ensures efficiency, saves money on energy bills, and keeps you warm all winter.
4. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Did you know ceiling fans have a winter setting? Flip the switch to reverse the direction to push warm air down, making your heating system work more efficiently and keeping you toasty.
5. Check for Ice Dam Prevention
Ice dams can wreak havoc on your roof. Ensure your attic is well-insulated, so heat doesn’t escape and melt snow on the roof, which then freezes and forms damaging ice dams.
6. Insulate Pipes
Exposed pipes in your basement, crawlspace, or even garage should be insulated to prevent freezing and bursting. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install – it could save you from major water damage!
7. Add or Replace Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping isn’t just for doors – windows, too! Replacing old or worn-out weatherstripping seals up leaks, keeping warm air in and cold air out.
8. Inspect the Roof
Check for any damaged shingles or spots where leaks could happen. If you’re not comfortable on a ladder, call a professional. A small repair now can prevent major water issues when the snow melts.
9. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems
Freezing temperatures can burst pipes. Disconnect garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and shut down your sprinkler system to avoid costly repairs in spring.
10. Trim Trees and Bushes
Snow and ice can weigh down branches, potentially causing them to snap and damage your home. Trim trees and shrubs close to the house to avoid any risk.
11. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With heating systems running full-time, it’s essential to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries and consider replacing detectors if they’re over ten years old.
12. Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Make sure you have essentials like salt, sand, and a good shovel. Stock up before the first big snowstorm hits, and you’ll thank yourself later!
13. Check Insulation in Attics and Basements
Attics and basements can be major sources of heat loss. Adding insulation or upgrading what you have can keep your home warmer and lower energy costs.
14. Clean Your Chimney
If you have a fireplace, a chimney sweep can help you ensure it’s free of creosote buildup or any blockages. This keeps your home safe and prevents chimney fires.
15. Prep Your Deck and Patio Furniture
Bring in any outdoor furniture or cover it well to protect it from the elements. Clear snow off decks as much as possible, so ice doesn’t build up and cause damage.