Winter Home Maintenance Tips for New Homeowners 

Whether you’re a new homeowner or have been for a while, as the temperatures drop and winter sets in, you’ll want to set aside some time to prepare your house to weather the season. 

Winter home maintenance isn’t just about staying warm either. It’s equally about protecting your investment, saving money on energy bills, and ensuring your home remains a safe haven during harsh weather. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential winter maintenance tasks and offer practical tips to keep your home in great shape. From protecting your pipes to ensuring your heating system is ready for the cold, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll feel confident and prepared to handle your first winter as a homeowner. 

Heating System Check-Up 

Your heating system can work overtime in the winter, so it’s important to ensure it’s functioning efficiently. You can start by scheduling an inspection with a licensed HVAC technician. They can clean, inspect, and fine-tune your heating system, ensuring it operates safely and efficiently. 

Dirty filters force your system to work harder, driving up energy costs. Aim to replace filters monthly during peak usage. You don’t have to be a pro to replace or clean your HVAC unit’s air filters and coils.  

While inspecting your air filters, you should also take a look at your vents and any radiators in your home, if you have them. Ensure they’re not blocked by furniture or curtains, allowing warm air to circulate properly. 

Winter is also a great time to install a smart thermostat. Some smart thermostats can use artificial intelligence (AI) to learn your habits and maximize your home’s energy efficiency. 

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing 

Frozen pipes can lead to expensive repairs and water damage. A great preventive measure is to use foam sleeves or heat tape to wrap pipes in unheated areas like basements and garages. This can insulate your pipes against the cold. 

During extreme cold, allowing a slow drip from your faucets can prevent pressure buildup and pipe freezing. 

It’s also a good safety measure to ensure you know where your main water valve is located and how to shut it off in case a pipe were to burst. Knowing how to shut off your water quickly can minimize damage if the worst happens. 

Roof and Gutter Maintenance 

Your roof and gutters play a critical role in shielding your home from winter weather. Damage to them, especially in the wintertime, can put your home at risk for more serious harm. 

A healthy roof will keep out leaks and can withstand the weight of snow. When inspecting your roof, you’ll want to look for missing or damaged shingles that could allow water to seep into your home. Cracks and leaks are annoying on their own, but left untreated for long, they can be a precursor for more serious damage. 

Also, ensure that the leaves that fell during the fall season aren’t clogging your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, causing water to back up under your roof. Installing gutter guards can help reduce the frequency of clogs. 

Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation 

We all want to be warm and cozy inside, especially during the coldest season of the year. There are some ways you can accomplish that without drastically increasing your energy bills in the process. 

The first step is to consider where heat can escape and cold air can enter. Check the weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal gaps to ensure it hasn’t been damaged through wear and tear. Sealing any visible gaps in walls or around window frames with caulk will also go a long way. 

Adding insulation to attics and crawl spaces can also make a big difference in maintaining a stable indoor temperature. 

Fireplace and Chimney Safety 

A warm fire can make your home feel inviting, but ensuring it’s safe to use is essential. 

Creosote buildup can lead to chimney fires, so it’s important to have your chimney cleaned annually. Getting your chimney inspected will also give you an idea of its health ahead of the winter season. 

If your chimney is clean and safe to use, it is time to stock up on some quality firewood. Wet or green wood creates more smoke and less heat. The best firewood is usually hardwood, like oak or maple, or fruit wood, like apple or cherry. 

You should also use a fire screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping. Ensure your fire extinguishers are accessible and still good to use if a stray spark escapes and starts a fire. 

Snow and Ice Management 

Snow and ice storms can be harmful to your own family and other pedestrians if not managed correctly. To prevent slips and falls, keep a snow shovel handy to clear driveways and sidewalks regularly. 

You may also want to stock up on ice melt to prevent black ice from forming. It’s a good idea to choose pet and plant-friendly options for safer use. 

Keeping your walkways clear of snow and ice is important for more than just maintaining the appearance of your home. You can potentially be held liable if somebody hurts themself on your property and you didn’t take proper precautions to prevent people from getting hurt.

Exterior Preparations 

Small tasks can prevent significant damage to your home’s exterior and save you from extra work in the spring. 

• Make sure you disconnect and store your hoses inside. Water left in hoses can freeze and damage pipes. 

• Inspect your outdoor lighting and replace bulbs to ensure pathways are well-lit. Winter is the darkest time of the year, and black ice is hard enough to see when it is light out. 

• Your outdoor furniture was probably not made for the winter. Store it or cover it securely to protect it from snow and ice. 

• Protect any plants around the outside of your home from frost. Wrapping them in burlap is a great way to keep plants that are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures warm. 

Preparing your home for winter is about more than just comfort — it’s about safeguarding your investment and ensuring your home remains safe and cozy for years to come. These winter maintenance tips will help you avoid costly repairs and keep everything running smoothly. 

If you’re still searching for your dream home, First Heritage Mortgage is here to help. We specialize in making homeownership accessible with personalized mortgage solutions to fit your needs. 

Ready to start your journey? Winter is a great time to begin your home buying journey. Get started with our team today, and let us help you finance the perfect home for every season.