Get Ahead of the Chill

Seasonal Prep: Get Your Home Ready for Cold Weather

As we ease into September, the weather might still feel summery, but winter is just around the corner. To help you stay ahead of the cold, we’ve put together some tips to get your home ready for the chilly season ahead.

1. Get Your Heating System in Shape

Before you cozy up with a hot drink, give your heating system a little love. Check your furnace, swap out old filters, and consider having a pro give it a once-over. A well-tuned furnace will keep you warm and save you from those surprising cold snaps.

Stephens agent Zach Dodson offers this advice: “If you have a home humidifier, don’t forget to open the damper for the winter months. Reverse ceiling fans to rotate clockwise – this helps circulate warm air throughout your home.”

2. Seal Those Drafts

Feeling a draft? It’s time to hunt down those sneaky gaps around windows and doors. A bit of weatherstripping or caulk can make a huge difference. Plus, it’ll help keep your energy bills from skyrocketing when the temperature drops.

3. Clean Out the Gutters

Those falling leaves might look picturesque, but they can clog your gutters and cause all sorts of trouble. Make sure you clean them out and check that water flows freely. This way, you’ll avoid any nasty surprises like water damage or ice dams.

4. Winter-Proof Your Pipes

Frozen pipes are a real pain. Insulate them, especially in those chilly spots like your crawl spaces, basement, and attic. If it’s going to be super cold, let your faucets drip a bit to keep things flowing.

Zach Dodson says, “Realtors often see damage caused by freezing water. Make sure you detach all hoses and cover the spigots with an insulated cover. And don’t forget your sprinkler system. It’s best to have it professionally winterized.”

5. Check Your Roof and Chimney

Take a stroll around your house and check your roof for any missing shingles or damage. If you use a fireplace, give your chimney a good clean. This will help keep your home safe and warm.

6. Test Your Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are your home’s best friends, especially in the winter. Test them out to make sure they’re working properly and replace the batteries if needed.

7. Tidy Up the Yard

While the leaves are still falling, clean up your yard and trim back any branches that could cause trouble in a storm. Store outdoor furniture and gardening tools to keep them in good shape.

8. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Get ahead of the game by stocking up on winter gear like de-icing salt, and a winter emergency kit. It’s always best to be prepared, just in case.

Chris Earl, Stephens managing broker, says, “Have snow shovels ready and have your snow blower serviced. Hardware stores sometimes run short of shovels and ice melt during a storm, and there is nothing worse than equipment that isn’t ready to run when the snow hits.”

9. Check Your Outdoor Lighting

With shorter days, good lighting is key. Make sure your outdoor lights are working and consider adding motion sensors for extra security. A well-lit home is a safe home!

10. Do a Winter Walk-Through

And finally, take a casual stroll around your home and yard to spot anything that might need repair before the cold weather hits. A little attention now can save you a lot of hassle later.

Getting a head start on these tasks will ensure your home is ready for the colder months. In Douglas County, where the winter months offer their own unique charm, we’re here to support homeowners with local expertise and advice. If you need any help or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your Stephens Real Estate agent is a great resource.