Preparing Your Home for Winter

As winter approaches, your home faces the harshest conditions of the year—cold temperatures, heavy moisture, and increased indoor activity. Taking a few proactive steps now can help you avoid unexpected repairs, improve safety, and keep your home running efficiently through the season.

Whether it’s clearing gutters or checking your heating and electrical systems, these small tasks can make a big difference when the cold sets in.

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

• Clean the gutters and downspouts
• Confirm firewood is stored at least 20 feet away from your home
• Remove screens from windows and install storm windows
• Familiarize responsible family members with the gas main valve and other appliance valves
• Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper, and space under the dryer
• Make sure all electrical holiday decorations have tight connections
• Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter
• Check the water hoses on the clothes washer, refrigerator icemaker, and dishwasher for cracks and bubbles
• Check your water heater
• Test all AFCI and GFCI devices

A little preparation now keeps your home cozy, efficient, and safe all winter long. If you’re unsure where to start, or want a professional opinion, Marquee Home Inspections is here to help ensure your home is in top condition for the season.

As the seasons change and temperatures begin to drop, your home faces new challenges. These come from cooler air and falling leaves, to increased moisture, and increased heating demands. A little routine maintenance now will help you stay ahead of potential problems. This will ensure your home stays warm, dry, and efficient throughout the months ahead.

Below is a practical fall checklist to help you prepare your home for the cooler weather and the demands of winter:

Fall Checklist

• Check your home for water leaks
• Have a heating professional check your heating system every year
• Protect your home from frozen pipes
• Run all gas-powered lawn equipment until the fuel is gone
• Test your emergency generator
• Have a certified chimney sweep inspect and clean the flues and check your
  fireplace damper
• Remove bird nests from chimney flues and outdoor electrical fixtures
• Inspect and clean dust from the covers of your smoke and carbon monoxide
  alarms
• Make sure the caulking around doors and windows is adequate to reduce
  heat/cooling loss
• Make sure that the caulking around your bathroom fixtures is adequate to
  prevent water from seeping into the sub-flooring

Taking time now to handle these simple checks can save you money, prevent damage, and make the transition into winter far smoother. Whether it’s tightening seals, testing heating systems, or ensuring your home’s safety features are up to date, a little attention this fall goes a long way toward keeping your home comfortable and secure.