December - February

Winter Home Maintenance

Protect your home during the coldest months. Focus on preventing frozen pipes, maintaining your heating system, and preparing for winter storms.

30

Total Tasks

15

Critical Tasks

Cold Weather Tips

When temperatures drop below 20°F: let faucets drip, open cabinet doors under sinks, and keep garage doors closed if water lines run through the garage. Never let your heat drop below 55°F, even when away.

Heating & Energy

Replace furnace filter monthly

Must Do

Heavy use means filters clog faster. Check every 2-4 weeks during winter.

Check thermostat batteries

Must Do

Replace batteries to prevent heating failures during cold snaps.

Reverse ceiling fans

Should Do

Set fans to clockwise on low to push warm air down from the ceiling.

Seal drafty windows and doors

Should Do

Apply weatherstripping or plastic film to reduce heat loss.

Keep vents clear

Must Do

Ensure furniture and drapes aren't blocking heating vents.

Monitor energy usage

Nice to Do

Compare heating bills month-over-month to spot inefficiencies.

Plumbing & Pipes

Know your main water shutoff

Must Do

Make sure everyone in the home knows where it is and how to use it.

Insulate exposed pipes

Must Do

Add insulation to pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages.

Let faucets drip during extreme cold

Must Do

When temps drop below 20°F, let water trickle to prevent freezing.

Open cabinet doors

Should Do

Allow warm air to reach pipes under sinks on exterior walls.

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses

Must Do

Should be done in fall, but check if you missed it.

Check water heater

Should Do

Flush sediment and verify temperature is set to 120°F.

Snow & Ice Management

Stock de-icing supplies

Must Do

Keep salt, sand, or pet-safe de-icer on hand before storms.

Clear snow from walkways promptly

Must Do

Remove snow before it compacts or turns to ice. Know local ordinances.

Keep roof clear near gutters

Should Do

Use a roof rake to remove snow buildup (stay off ladders in winter).

Check for ice dams

Must Do

Look for icicles at roof edge - may indicate ice dam forming behind.

Clear snow from vents and meters

Must Do

Keep furnace exhaust, dryer vent, and gas meter clear of snow.

Shovel away from foundation

Should Do

Pile snow away from the house to prevent foundation moisture issues in spring.

Safety & Emergency

Test smoke & CO detectors

Must Do

Critical during heating season. Test monthly and replace batteries.

Review emergency kit supplies

Must Do

Flashlights, batteries, blankets, water, non-perishable food for power outages.

Keep generator fuel fresh

Should Do

If you have a generator, use fuel stabilizer and test monthly.

Check fire extinguisher

Must Do

Verify gauge shows charged and know how to use it.

Clear exits and pathways

Must Do

Ensure all exits are accessible and not blocked by snow.

Stock emergency supplies in car

Should Do

Blanket, flashlight, snacks, phone charger for winter driving.

Interior Maintenance

Control indoor humidity

Should Do

Keep humidity at 30-40% to prevent window condensation and mold.

Check attic for moisture

Should Do

Look for frost or moisture buildup that indicates ventilation problems.

Vacuum refrigerator coils

Nice to Do

Good winter task - improves efficiency and lifespan.

Deep clean carpets

Nice to Do

Remove salt and dirt tracked in during winter months.

Check window caulking

Should Do

Look for gaps or cracks that let cold air in.

Test garage door auto-reverse

Should Do

Cold weather can affect sensors. Test monthly.

Winter Emergency Preparedness

Be prepared for power outages, extreme cold, and winter storms with these essential supplies and knowledge.

Power Outage Kit

  • Flashlights with extra batteries
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Phone chargers (battery pack or car charger)
  • Blankets and warm clothing
  • Non-perishable food (3-day supply)
  • Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day)
  • Manual can opener
  • First aid kit
  • Essential medications (7-day supply)
  • Cash in small bills

Heating Backup

  • Know safe alternative heating options
  • Never use outdoor heaters or grills indoors
  • Have extra blankets and sleeping bags
  • Know location of warming centers
  • Keep one room warm by closing off others
  • Use towels to block drafts under doors

Pipe Freeze Prevention

  • Know main water shutoff location
  • Keep thermostat at 55°F+ even when away
  • Open cabinet doors to warm pipes
  • Let faucets drip in extreme cold
  • Know how to thaw pipes safely (never with open flame)
  • Have plumber's number ready

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent frozen pipes?

Keep your home at least 55°F, insulate exposed pipes, let faucets drip during extreme cold (below 20°F), open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls, and disconnect outdoor hoses. Know where your main water shutoff is in case a pipe does freeze.

What are ice dams and how do I prevent them?

Ice dams form when heat escapes through your roof, melting snow that refreezes at the colder roof edge. Prevention includes proper attic insulation and ventilation, keeping gutters clear, and using a roof rake to remove snow buildup. Never chip ice off your roof.

How often should I change my furnace filter in winter?

Check your filter every 2-4 weeks during heavy use. Basic filters may need replacement monthly, while higher-quality filters can last 2-3 months. A dirty filter makes your furnace work harder, wastes energy, and can cause breakdowns.

What should I do if my pipes freeze?

Turn off the main water supply, then slowly thaw pipes with a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in warm water. Never use open flames. Start from the faucet end and work toward the frozen area. If you can't locate the freeze or pipes burst, call a plumber immediately.

Is it safe to use a space heater?

Space heaters can be safe if used properly: keep 3 feet clear around them, place on flat surfaces, never leave unattended or while sleeping, plug directly into outlets (not extension cords), and choose models with auto-shutoff features. Never use them to dry clothes.

Should I turn off my water if I leave for vacation?

For extended absences in winter, consider shutting off the main water and draining pipes. At minimum, keep heat at 55°F or higher, have someone check the house periodically, and open cabinet doors under sinks. Some insurance policies require these precautions.

Fall MaintenanceAll SeasonsSpring Maintenance