Home Maintenance Checklist Before Winter Hits
As the temperatures start to drop, it’s time to shift gears from summer fun to prepping your home for the cooler months ahead. A little maintenance now can prevent big (and expensive) headaches later — especially when it comes to keeping your home cozy and energy efficient all winter long.
Here’s your essential home maintenance checklist before winter hits:
Service Your Heating System
Your furnace or heat pump has been taking it easy all summer, but that’s about to change. Schedule a professional inspection and cleaning to make sure it’s running efficiently.
Pro tip: Replace air filters every 1–3 months to improve air quality and keep your system from overworking.
Inspect Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can make your energy bills skyrocket.
Check for cracks or gaps and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
Bonus: Thick curtains can help insulate and keep the warmth inside.
Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and costly) winter problems.
Wrap exposed pipes in insulation sleeves and disconnect garden hoses. If your home has an outdoor faucet, shut off the water supply and drain it to prevent freezing.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
After the fall leaves drop, make sure your gutters are clear. Clogged gutters can cause ice dams or water damage around your roofline.
Tip: Point downspouts away from your foundation to prevent pooling water.
Check the Roof
A quick roof inspection can save you major trouble later. Look for missing or damaged shingles and make repairs before snow or heavy rain sets in.
If climbing on a roof isn’t your thing, many local roofing companies offer inexpensive inspections.
Tip: Some roofing companies will come out and give you a quote for FREE so be sure to check around.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With fireplaces, space heaters, and furnaces running, now’s the time to double-check your detectors. Replace batteries and make sure every floor of your home has working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Flip the switch on your ceiling fans so they rotate clockwise. This helps push warm air down into the living space — keeping you warmer without touching the thermostat.
Prep the Fireplace or Chimney
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have it cleaned and inspected before lighting it up for the season. Creosote buildup can be a fire hazard, and a clean chimney means better airflow and safety.
Tidy Up the Yard
Bring in outdoor furniture, drain sprinkler systems, and store garden tools. Trim back trees or branches near your home to avoid damage during winter storms.
Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Don’t wait for the first cold snap! Make sure you have extra salt or sand for icy driveways, a snow shovel handy, and a few cozy blankets ready for chilly nights.
Final Thoughts
A weekend or two of maintenance now can save you from stress, repairs, and high energy bills once winter hits. Whether you’re planning to stay put or thinking about selling soon, a well-maintained home always pays off.