12 Ways to Make Sure Your Home is Winter-Ready

As winter rolls around, it’s time to get your home snug and secure before the cold really bites. If you’ve ever faced a burst pipe or a heater on the fritz when it’s freezing outside, you know it’s no joke. The damage can be costly and the hassle, a real headache.

That’s why I’ve looked to the pros at the Texas Department of Insurance, Family Handyman, and Kiplinger.com for the most crucial winterizing tips. These are 12 key things you need to check off to keep your home warm and your winter trouble-free.

Inspect Your Roof

Regular roof checks can save you a lot of future grief. Grab a ladder and get a close look, or stay on the ground and use binoculars if heights aren’t your thing. You’re looking for signs of wear like damaged or missing shingles that could let water in during storms or melting snow.

Also, keep an eye out for cracked sealing around vent pipes and areas with heavy moss or lichen, which might mean the roof is starting to decay underneath. If you spot minor issues, a handyman might be all you need for a fix. For anything more serious, consider a professional roofer.

Winterize Your Sprinkler System

Getting your sprinkler system ready for winter is crucial to avoid costly freeze damage. If your yard’s slope allows, you might not need anything more than a manual or automatic drain to get the water out. Otherwise, consider a blowout service. They’ll use high-pressure air to clear the pipes, ensuring no water is left in low spots to freeze.

According to Kiplinger.com, you can expect to pay between $100 and $250 for this service, depending on your system’s size. It’s a small price for peace of mind throughout the cold months.

Service Your Furnace

Before the deep freeze sets in, make sure your furnace is up to the task. Scheduling a professional service can save you a big headache and even bigger repair bills down the road. For a reasonable fee, a technician will ensure your heating system—whether it’s a furnace, boiler, or heat pump—is clean, in good repair, and operating at peak efficiency.

They’ll also check for any carbon monoxide leaks, which are crucial for your safety. Opt for a contractor affiliated with the Air Conditioning Contractors of America and certified by the North American Technician Excellence for top-notch service.

Optimize Your Ceiling Fans

Got a ceiling fan? Flip the reverse switch to make the blades spin clockwise once you start heating your home. This simple trick forces warm air downwards, helping to evenly distribute heat, especially in rooms with high ceilings.

By doing this, you might find you can actually lower your thermostat a bit, saving money on energy costs without sacrificing comfort.

Winterize Your Pool

As temperatures begin to drop, it’s crucial to get your pool ready for the chill. Winterizing your pool isn’t just about covering it; make sure to run the pump during freezing conditions to prevent your pipes from freezing.

This step is essential to avoid costly repairs come spring. Ensure that everything is sealed up tight and that your pool’s protective cover is secure and free from tears or gaps.

Check Your Water Shutoff Valve

Knowing where your water shutoff valve is and ensuring it functions properly is a must before winter hits. You’ll usually find it under a metal lid near the street, between your house and the nearest manhole cover.

Give it a test to make sure it isn’t stuck, because in case of a burst pipe, turning off your water quickly could save you from extensive water damage. If the valve won’t budge, it’s time to call in a plumber to sort it out before the situation becomes urgent.

Clear Out Your Gutters

It’s key to start at the top of your home and work your way down when prepping for winter. Make sure your gutters are free from leaves and debris, especially after all the leaves have fallen. A clean gutter will prevent water damage by directing it away from your house.

To check if everything’s flowing smoothly, pour some water down the downspout and watch where it exits. If water pools too close to your foundation, consider adding extensions to the downspouts to redirect it further away, safeguarding your home’s structural integrity.

Maintain Your Chimney

Nothing beats a cozy fire in the winter, but before you light up that yule log, make sure your chimney is in good shape. An unchecked chimney can not only let in cold drafts but also pose a fire hazard. Clear out any visible blockages and test if the damper opens and closes smoothly.

If it’s been a year or more, bring in a professional to clean out the hard-to-reach spots and verify that your chimney will safely vent smoke. This is not just about warmth; it’s about safety too.

Prep Your Heating System

As autumn rolls in, it’s wise to give your heating system a thorough check-up. You really don’t want to discover it’s out of commission on a cold winter night. Change out those old filters and run a test to make sure everything from your furnace to your thermostats is in tip-top shape.

Also, take a moment to inspect your water heater for any signs of leaks or dampness—catching these issues early can save you from bigger headaches later.

Seal Up Drafts

Take a moment to inspect the edges of your windows and doors. If you feel a draft sneaking in, that’s your warm air slipping out, and it can really bump up your heating costs. You can tackle minor gaps with some caulking or weather stripping—simple fixes that make a big difference.

For larger gaps, though, you might need some professional help. Find a good contractor early, so you’re all set before those winter winds really start to howl.

Protect Your Pipes

Before the chill sets in, take a walk through areas like your basement or crawlspace where plumbing tends to hide. Pipes in these cooler zones are at risk of freezing, which can lead to bursts—trust me, you don’t want that mess.

The best fix? Wrap them up in good quality pipe insulation. For extra peace of mind, consider running a heat cable beneath the insulation. It’s like giving your pipes a warm hug that’ll keep them snug all winter long.

Boost Your Insulation

Let’s talk about your attic and crawlspace. These spots can be the biggest culprits in heat loss, driving up your energy bills. Adding more insulation here isn’t just a good move—it’s a smart investment. Blown-in insulation is your best bet for getting into all those nooks and crannies.

You can either hire pros to handle it or, if you’re feeling handy, rent the equipment from a home improvement store. Either way, you’ll be setting yourself up for a cozier home and lower heating costs.