Winter Home Care: Essential Tips to Keep Your House Warm, Safe, and Efficient

Winter can be tough on homes, with cold temperatures, snow, and ice causing potential damage. However, with the right care and preparation, you can keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient. This guide covers key steps to help you prepare for the colder months, from sealing windows to protecting your pipes.

Getting Your Home’s Exterior Ready

Checking and Fixing the Roof

Your roof shields your home from the elements, so it’s important to check for loose, damaged, or missing shingles before winter starts. Snow and ice can make small issues worse, leading to leaks and expensive repairs. If you’re unsure, hiring a professional for an inspection can help catch problems early and prevent bigger issues.

Cleaning Out the Gutters

Gutters direct water away from your home, but when they’re clogged with leaves and debris, ice dams can form, leading to water damage. Cleaning them before winter starts can prevent these problems. Installing gutter guards can also reduce the amount of debris that builds up, making future maintenance easier.

Sealing Windows and Doors

Gaps around windows and doors let in cold air, making it harder to keep your home warm. Use weather stripping, caulk, or draft stoppers to close these gaps and improve energy efficiency. Double-pane or storm windows add an extra layer of insulation, helping you save on heating costs.

Protecting Outdoor Faucets and Pipes

Outdoor pipes and faucets can freeze and burst in winter, leading to costly repairs. Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers. If you have exposed pipes in unheated areas like garages or basements, wrapping them in insulation can help keep them from freezing. Letting a small stream of water flow from faucets during extremely cold nights can also reduce the risk of freezing.

Keeping Your Home Warm

Checking Your Heating System

Your heating system needs to work properly to keep your home comfortable. Schedule an inspection before winter to make sure your furnace or boiler is running efficiently. Change air filters regularly to maintain good airflow. If your heating system is more than 15 years old, upgrading to a newer model can save on energy costs.

Improving Insulation

Good insulation helps keep warmth inside, reducing heating costs. Check your attic, walls, and basement for areas that may need more insulation. Using thick curtains and draft stoppers on doors can also help prevent heat from escaping.

Using Space Heaters Safely

Space heaters can add warmth to specific rooms, but they should be used carefully. Keep them at least three feet away from anything flammable, like curtains and furniture. Never leave them on while sleeping or when leaving the house. Choose models with automatic shut-off features to reduce fire risks, and always plug them directly into wall outlets instead of extension cords.

Protecting Your Plumbing

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can burst, leading to costly damage. Keep your home at a minimum temperature of 55°F, even when you’re away. Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warm air to circulate around pipes. Insulating pipes in unheated areas like attics and crawl spaces can also help.

Thawing Frozen Pipes

If a pipe freezes, warm it slowly using a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels. Never use an open flame, as it can damage the pipe or cause a fire. If you can’t locate the frozen section or the pipe bursts, turn off the main water supply and contact a plumber immediately.

Saving Energy in Winter

Using a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat lets you set different temperatures throughout the day to save energy. Lower the heat when you’re sleeping or away and raise it before you wake up or return home. Smart thermostats can learn your habits and adjust settings automatically for better efficiency.

Stopping Drafts and Air Leaks

Even small openings around windows, doors, and vents can let in cold air. Use caulk, foam sealant, or weather stripping to seal these areas. This simple step helps keep warm air inside and reduces heating costs.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your home before and during winter helps keep it warm, safe, and efficient. By checking your roof, sealing drafts, maintaining your heating system, and protecting your pipes, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy a comfortable season. A little effort now can save you from major problems later.

For expert real estate advice, reach out to Adam Chahl, an award-winning Vancouver Real Estate Agent with Oakwyn Realty and a proud member of the Medallion Club. With years of experience helping clients navigate the Vancouver real estate market, Adam and the PLACE Real Estate Team are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact him today to discuss your real estate needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I clean my gutters in winter?

Clean them at least twice before winter starts and check for blockages during the season.

What is the best indoor temperature for winter?

Keep your thermostat between 68-72°F during the day and lower it slightly at night for comfort and efficiency.

How can I reduce heating costs in winter?

Sealing drafts, adding insulation, using a programmable thermostat, and maintaining your heating system can all help lower costs.

How do I prevent ice dams on my roof?

Proper insulation, attic ventilation, and removing excess snow from the roof can help prevent ice dams.

Should I turn off my water if I’m leaving for winter?

Yes, if you’ll be away for a long time, shut off the main water supply and drain the pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.