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When winter arrives in Columbus, Ohio, homeowners know that freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can take a real toll on their homes. Preparing for the cold months ahead isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your investment and avoiding costly repairs. As temperatures drop, here’s a top five checklist to help you keep your home safe, warm, and efficient all winter long.
1. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing
Few things are worse than waking up to a burst pipe in the middle of winter. To prevent this, disconnect and drain garden hoses, and shut off outdoor faucets before the first hard freeze. Inside, insulate pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. On extremely cold nights, open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate and consider letting faucets drip slightly to keep water moving. These small steps can save you from a major plumbing disaster.
2. Service Your Heating System
Your furnace works hard during Ohio’s long, chilly winters, so give it the care it deserves. Schedule a professional inspection to ensure your furnace is running efficiently and safely. Replace or clean filters monthly to maintain airflow and reduce energy costs. If you use a fireplace or wood-burning stove, have the chimney cleaned and inspected before the first fire of the season to prevent dangerous creosote buildup. A well-maintained heating system keeps your home cozy and your utility bills under control.
3. Seal Up Drafts and Heat Leaks
Homes, especially older ones, often lose heat during freezing temperatures through small gaps and cracks. Check windows, doors, and attic spaces for drafts and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. Adding insulation to attics and basements can make a big difference in comfort and heating efficiency. Even simple touches—like heavy curtains or door draft stoppers—can help keep the warmth in and the cold out. A little attention to sealing and insulation now can pay off all winter long.
4. Prepare Your Roof and Gutters
Snow and ice can cause serious roof damage if your gutters and downspouts aren’t clear. Clean them thoroughly to allow melting snow to drain properly and prevent ice dams from forming. Inspect your roof for missing shingles, cracks, or other signs of wear, and repair issues before snow accumulation makes them worse. If you can safely do so, use a roof rake to remove heavy snow after big storms. This helps prevent leaks and excess weight on your roof.
5. Check Safety Devices and Emergency Supplies
Winter storms can lead to power outages and hazardous conditions. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors—especially if you use gas heat or a fireplace—and replace batteries as needed. Keep an emergency kit with flashlights, blankets, bottled water, and nonperishable food. It’s also a good idea to have a backup heat source, like a space heater or generator, and know how to use it safely. Preparation helps you stay calm and comfortable when the unexpected happens.
Stay Warm, Stay Safe, and Protect Your Home
By following these cold-weather maintenance steps, you can safeguard your home from winter damage due to freezing temperatures and enjoy a season of warmth and peace of mind.
Thinking of buying or selling a home this winter? Let Aly guide you through every step—and connect you with trusted local professionals to keep your home in top shape all season long.
