How to Prepare Your Home for Winter: A Complete Checklist

Your heating system is your most important winter asset. Prepare it before you need it:

Professional furnace inspection (recommended annually):

• Schedule in September or October, before HVAC companies get busy
• Includes: heat exchanger inspection, burner cleaning, safety control testing, flue inspection
• Cost: $75–$200
• Critical for gas furnaces — a cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide

DIY heating tasks:

• Replace the furnace filter (use the correct size — check monthly throughout winter)
• Test the furnace before cold weather arrives — don't wait for the first cold day
• Check all supply and return vents — make sure they're open and unobstructed
• If you have a fireplace, have the chimney cleaned and inspected (annually)
• Test carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries
• Test smoke detectors and replace batteries

Programmable thermostat: Set a winter schedule — lower the temperature when you're sleeping or away (but not below 55°F to prevent pipe freezing). Each degree lower saves 1-3% on heating costs.

Frozen pipes are one of the most common and expensive winter problems. A burst pipe can flood your home and cause thousands in damage:

Outdoor plumbing:

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses
• Shut off and drain outdoor faucets (look for shutoff valves inside the house)
• Drain irrigation/sprinkler systems (or have a professional blow them out with compressed air)
• Drain and store outdoor water features
• Insulate outdoor pipes and hose bibs with foam covers

Indoor plumbing:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas (crawl spaces, attics, garages, exterior walls) with foam pipe insulation
• Identify pipes that have frozen in the past and prioritize insulating them
• Locate your main water shutoff valve — know how to turn it off in case of a burst pipe
• If you have a well, insulate the well pump and pipes

During extreme cold:

• Let faucets drip slightly (running water is less likely to freeze)
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to reach pipes
• Keep the garage door closed if there are pipes or a water heater in the garage
• Maintain indoor temperature at 55°F minimum, even when away

Your roof and gutters face snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Prepare them to prevent ice dams and water damage:

Gutters:

• Clean gutters after leaves have fallen (late fall)
• Clear all debris — leaves, twigs, dirt
• Check that downspouts are clear and direct water at least 3-5 feet from the foundation
• Consider gutter guards if you have overhanging trees

Roof:

• Inspect from the ground (use binoculars) for missing, damaged, or curling shingles
• Check flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for gaps or damage
• Have a professional inspect if your roof is over 15 years old or you see damage
• Check the attic for signs of leaks (water stains, mold, daylight through boards)

Ice dam prevention:

• Ensure attic insulation is adequate (R-38 to R-60 for most climates)
• Check attic ventilation — proper airflow prevents warm spots that melt snow unevenly
• Seal air leaks from the living space into the attic (around light fixtures, pipes, chimneys)
• Consider installing heat cables in problem areas if ice dams have been an issue

Sealing air leaks and improving insulation are the most cost-effective winter preparations:

Air sealing:

• Check weatherstripping on all exterior doors — replace if worn or compressed
• Caulk gaps around window and door frames
• Install door sweeps on exterior doors (especially the bottom of the door)
• Seal gaps around pipes, wires, and vents that penetrate exterior walls or the attic
• Use foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on exterior walls

Insulation:

• Check attic insulation depth — most homes need 12-16 inches (R-38 to R-60)
• Add insulation if yours is below recommended levels — this is one of the best investments you can make
• Check basement/crawl space insulation — insulate rim joists and exterior walls
• Consider insulating hot water pipes to reduce heat loss

Windows:

• Check for drafts around windows — use incense or a candle to find air leaks
• Install storm windows if you have them
• Use window film insulation kits for single-pane or drafty windows
• Consider thermal curtains for additional insulation

Prepare the exterior of your home and yard for winter:

Landscaping:

• Trim tree branches that could fall on your house or power lines under snow load
• Wrap young or delicate trees and shrubs with burlap
• Mulch around plants to protect roots from freeze-thaw cycles
• Bring tender plants indoors or cover them

Exterior:

• Inspect siding for gaps, cracks, or damage — repair before winter
• Check exterior paint — touch up as needed to protect wood
• Seal gaps around the foundation where pests could enter
• Clean and store outdoor furniture
• Drain and winterize lawn equipment (mowers, trimmers)

Snow preparation:

• Buy snow shovels, ice melt, and sand before the first storm (supplies sell out during storms)
• Service your snow blower if you have one
• Have a plan for snow removal — know your local ordinances about sidewalk clearing
• Keep a winter emergency kit in your car

Winter preparation isn't just about preventing damage — it's also about saving on energy costs:

• Programmable thermostat: Set it to lower the temperature when you're away or sleeping. Each degree lower saves 1-3% on heating.
• Reverse ceiling fans: In winter, set fans to rotate clockwise at low speed. This pushes warm air (which rises) back down into the living space.
• Use natural heat: Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let sunlight warm your home. Close them at night to reduce heat loss.
• Seal the fireplace: If you have a fireplace you don't use, close the damper and consider a chimney balloon to stop warm air from escaping up the chimney.
• Service the water heater: Drain a few gallons to remove sediment (improves efficiency). Consider insulating the tank and pipes.
• Check for drafts: A professional energy audit ($200–$500) can identify the most cost-effective improvements. Many utilities offer free or discounted audits.