Winter Home Maintenance Guide for Protecting Your Home

Protect and prepare your home for the winter season with BOWA’s winter home maintenance checklist

As the temperatures drop and we prepare for winter to settle in, your home requires careful attention to ensure it remains comfortable, efficient, and safe through the colder months. Whether you manage your home’s upkeep personally or enlist professional assistance, our BOWA experts are weighing in on winter home maintenance to guide your efforts and preserve the beauty and functionality of your property.

Shut Off and Drain Hose Bibs

Hose bibs are the water faucets to which your gardening hoses attach. Every year basements become flooded because water is allowed to remain inside the pipes through the freezing winter months, which can cause pipes to burst. When spring rolls around, these broken pipes thaw and begin to leak. If not identified right away, this can lead to extensive water damage. All hose bibs, including those that are “Frost Free,” should be shut off and drained before the winter months to prevent this from happening. It’s important to remember to disconnect hoses so the faucets can fully drain.

Prevent Ice Dams with Gutter Care

Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can damage your roof and create leaks inside your home. Schedule a winter home maintenance cleaning with a professional to remove leaves, debris, and ensure proper drainage. It’s also a great time to check for loose or damaged gutters that may need repair.

Winterize Your HVAC System

Your heating system works overtime during the winter, so it’s essential to keep it in top condition. Have your HVAC system inspected and serviced, including replacing air filters and cleaning ductwork. If you haven’t yet, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to maintain consistent temperatures and improve energy efficiency.

Inspect Outdoor Lighting and Pathways

Shorter days and icy conditions make outdoor lighting and safe walkways a priority. As part of your winter home maintenance, check for burned-out bulbs, clean light fixtures, and adjust timers as needed. Ensure pathways and driveways are clear of cracks or uneven surfaces and arrange for clearing of snow and ice when necessary.

Schedule Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance

A cozy fire is one of winter’s greatest comforts, but it’s important to ensure your chimney and fireplace are safe to use. Hire a professional to inspect and clean your chimney and ensure gas fireplaces are venting properly.

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes can cause significant damage to your home. Ensure exposed pipes are insulated, particularly in unheated areas like basements and garages. Have your plumbing system checked for leaks and consider installing smart leak detectors as part of your winter home maintenance.

Maintain Backup Power Systems

Winter storms can lead to power outages, so it’s wise to ensure your backup generator is in working order. Schedule a professional inspection and test the system to confirm it’s ready when you need it.

Check Windows and Doors for Drafts

Drafty windows and doors can make your home less energy-efficient and increase heating costs. Have a professional seal any gaps or replace weatherstripping. If your windows are older, consider working with one of our BOWA experts to upgrade to high-performance models for better insulation.

Optimize Your Humidification System

Winter air can be dry, which isn’t ideal for your skin, health, or home’s interior. If your home has a humidification system, have it serviced for winter home maintenance to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels. This can also help preserve hardwood floors and fine furniture.

Taking care of these essential winter home maintenance tasks will help keep your home a cozy and secure retreat throughout the season. Whether you need assistance finding trusted service providers or are exploring upgrades to enhance your home’s comfort and efficiency, the BOWA team is ready to support you every step of the way.