20 Winter Home Maintenance Tasks You Shouldn't Skip

Prepare your home for winter with these 20 essential tasks, which will keep you cozy, safe, and worry-free all season long.

Sophia Zapanta
January 6, 2025
4 min read

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Winter is coming, and your home deserves the same attention as your wardrobe. Simple maintenance tasks, such as sealing drafts and checking your furnace, can save money and prevent chilly disasters. Follow these 20 tips to keep your home running smoothly while you enjoy a warm and stress-free winter.

1. Inspect Your Roof for Leaks

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Your roof takes the brunt of winter weather, so check for loose or damaged shingles. Catching leaks early can prevent water damage and costly repairs. A quick roof inspection now beats an expensive emergency later.

2. Clean Your Gutters

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Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which cause water to seep into your walls—clear leaves and debris before the snow hits. A clean gutter keeps your home dry and stress-free.

3. Check Your Furnace

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Your furnace is your winter MVP, so ensure it’s running efficiently. Replace filters and schedule a professional tune-up. A healthy furnace means a warm, energy-efficient home.

4. Seal Windows and Doors

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Drafty windows and doors let heat escape, and money flies out the window. Seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. A cozy home is a sealed home.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

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Winter heating increases the risk of fires and CO poisoning. Replace old batteries and ensure detectors are working. Safety comes first, always.

6. Insulate Pipes

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Exposed pipes are prone to freezing and bursting in low temperatures. Wrap them with foam or insulation tape to prevent a pipe problem before it floods your winter wonderland.

7. Reverse Ceiling Fans

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Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise to push warm air down. This small trick has enormous heating benefits. Who said fans were just for summer?

8. Trim Overhanging Branches

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Heavy snow can cause weak branches to snap and damage your home. Trim them before winter storms arrive. Your trees and roof will thank you.

9. Check for Drafts in the Attic

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A poorly insulated attic is like wearing a tank top in winter. Add insulation to keep your home warm and energy bills low. Heat rises—don’t let it escape.

10. Drain and Store Garden Hoses

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Frozen water in hoses can burst pipes and create a mess. Disconnect, drain, and store them properly. Winter-proofing starts in the yard.

11. Test Your Sump Pump

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Melting snow can lead to basement flooding. Ensure your sump pump is in good working order. A quick test now prevents a soggy mess later.

12. Stock Up on Ice Melt and Shovels

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With the right tools, you can tackle snow and ice. For your furry friends, choose pet-safe ice melt. Winter warriors are always prepared.

13. Schedule a Chimney Sweep

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A dirty chimney is a fire hazard waiting to happen. Clean it before lighting your first cozy fire. A clean chimney is a happy chimney.

14. Check Your Water Heater

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Cold showers in winter? No thanks! Flush your water heater to remove sediment and ensure it works efficiently. Warm water is a winter must-have.

15. Inspect Weatherstripping

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Old or worn weatherstripping can let in drafts and drive up heating costs. Replace it for better energy efficiency. Seal the deal on a warmer home.

16. Clean Dryer Vents

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Clogged dryer vents are a fire risk, especially in winter. Clear them out to prevent buildup and keep your dryer running smoothly. A clean vent is a safe vent.

17. Protect Outdoor Furniture

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Cover or store outdoor furniture to prevent damage from snow and ice. It’s an easy way to extend their lifespan. Save your patio set for sunnier days.

18. Test Outdoor Lights

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Shorter days mean more time in the dark. Ensure your outdoor lights are working to keep walkways safe. Bright lights, safer nights.

19. Check Your Insulation

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Proper insulation keeps the cold out and the warmth in. If needed, add more to keep your home cozy. Invest in insulation and save on heating costs.

20. Prepare an Emergency Kit

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Winter storms can knock out power and trap you indoors. Stock up on essentials like blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food. A prepared home is a safe home.