Winter brings beautiful snowy days—but it also brings unique challenges for homeowners. Cold temperatures, dry air, and increased heating use can strain your home’s systems. Taking a few preventative steps now can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe all season.
Here’s HouseMaster’s expert winter home safety checklist
1. Prevent Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter hazards. When water freezes, it expands—putting pressure on your plumbing and potentially causing pipes to burst.
Prevention tips:
- Insulate exposed pipes (garages, attics, crawlspaces).
- Keep a slow drip running during extreme cold.
- Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate.
2. Maintain Your Heating System
Your furnace or heating system works overtime in winter. A clean, well-maintained system is essential for safety and efficiency.
Do this:
- Schedule an annual HVAC inspection.
- Replace filters monthly.
- Check for strange odors, noises, or uneven heating.
3. Reduce Fire Hazards
Winter is peak season for home heating fires.
Protect your home by:
- Having chimneys and fireplaces cleaned.
- Keeping space heaters 3+ feet away from flammable items.
- Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
4. Seal Doors and Windows
Drafts cause heat loss and higher energy bills.
Quick fixes:
- Add weatherstripping.
- Caulk exterior openings.
- Consider thermal curtains in older homes.
5. Clear Snow and Ice Safely
Snow buildup can cause structural and safety concerns.
Tips:
- Keep walkways and driveways clear.
- Remove snow and ice from gutters and roof edges to prevent ice dams.
- Use de-icer safely around pets and landscaping.
6. Book a Winter Home Inspection
A professional home inspection can identify risks before they become costly problems—from structural issues to insulation gaps.
HouseMaster inspectors provide expert evaluations to keep your home safe, comfortable, and winter-ready.
