Winter is on its way, and with it comes chilly nights, snow-covered rooftops, and the occasional power outage. While winter’s charm is undeniable, it can take a serious toll on your home if you’re unprepared. Tackling a few essential winter home maintenance tasks now will keep your house running smoothly through the cold months ahead and help you avoid those dreaded mid-winter disasters.
Warm It Up: Service Your Heating System
There’s nothing worse than waking up in the middle of a cold night only to realize your heating system has failed. To avoid this, give your furnace or heat pump the attention it deserves before winter kicks into full gear. Schedule a professional inspection to make sure everything is running efficiently, and be sure to swap out those dusty air filters for new ones. If you have ductwork, it’s also worth checking it for leaks. Leaky ducts waste heat, which could leave you shivering and facing higher energy bills.
Your thermostat also deserves a once-over. A programmable thermostat will help you fine-tune your heating schedule and save money by not blasting heat when no one’s home.
Insulate and Seal for Maximum Warmth During Winter Home Maintenance
Want to keep the heat where it belongs? Insulation is key. Check your attic, basement, and walls for areas where cold air might sneak in. Adding extra insulation where needed goes a long way toward keeping your home cozy without overworking your heating system.
Drafts are another sneaky way heat escapes. Inspect windows and doors for gaps and apply weatherstripping to seal them up. Gaps around plumbing and electrical outlets can also let cold air in—use caulk or foam sealant to close them off.
Gutter Maintenance: Prevent Ice Dams
Winter can be rough on your roof, and ice dams are a common culprit. When your gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, water from melting snow can get trapped and freeze, leading to ice buildup. These ice dams can damage your roof, siding, and even your home’s foundation.
Before the snow starts to fall, clean out your gutters and downspouts. Make sure water can flow freely away from your home. If you notice sagging or damage to your gutters, address it now.
Flush Your Water Heater
Your water heater will be working overtime this winter, so take the time to flush it out before the cold hits. Sediment can build up in the tank over time, reducing its efficiency and shortening its lifespan. Flushing the tank helps remove this buildup and means you’ll have plenty of hot water during the winter months.
In colder climates, insulate your water heater and surrounding pipes to prevent heat loss. This improves energy efficiency and reduces the strain on your water heater.
Winter home maintenance isn’t just about preventing disasters—it’s about making your home as comfortable and energy-efficient as possible when the cold sets in. By tackling these tasks early, you’ll keep your home warm and cozy all season long without the stress of unexpected repairs.
Winter Home Maintenance FAQs
What should I do if my heating system makes unusual noises?
If your heating system starts making strange sounds like banging, rattling, or squealing, it could indicate several issues. A banging noise might mean there’s air trapped in your system while rattling could indicate loose components. Squealing often points to a problem with the blower motor or fan belt. It’s best to have a technician inspect the system promptly to prevent further damage.
How can I tell if my attic insulation needs to be replaced or added?
Check the thickness of the insulation in your attic. In colder climates, insulation should be about 12-15 inches thick. If you can see the floor joists, your attic may need more insulation. Another sign is inconsistent room temperatures or higher energy bills, which can indicate that heat is escaping through the roof.
What’s the best way to remove snow from my roof?
If snow accumulates to over 6 inches, it’s important to remove it to avoid overloading your roof. Use a long-handled roof rake to safely remove the snow while standing on the ground. Be careful not to damage the shingles or gutters. If your roof has excessive snow and ice buildup, call a professional for safe removal.
Border Home and Property Inspections offers extensive home inspection services in the Midwest region of Alberta and Saskatchewan. If you’re buying or selling a property, contact us to request an appointment.