Winter in the Saint Louis region brings cold temperatures, snow, and ice—all of which can take a toll on your home if you’re not prepared. As a homeowner, a few preventative steps can save you from costly repairs, protect your home’s value, and help you stay cozy throughout the season.
At Mister Fix-It, we’re here to make sure your home is ready to face the chill. Here are our top winter home maintenance tips to keep your property safe, warm, and efficient during the upcoming cold months.
- Check Your Heating System
Start by scheduling a professional inspection for your furnace or heat pump. Tune-ups can ensure that your heating system runs efficiently and won’t break down when you need it most. Also, remember to replace air filters regularly, which will help maintain good air quality and make your system run more smoothly.
Pro Tip: Our local partners at UPKEEP offer affordable, dependable home warranties that include four annual maintenance checks on appliances and home systems, like HVAC systems. - Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors let cold air into your home, forcing your heating system to work harder. Inspect the weatherstripping around doors and windows, and make replacements if you notice gaps or wear. Consider adding door sweeps to block cold air from entering underneath doors. For extra insulation, you can also use window insulation film, which is affordable and easy to apply. - Insulate Exposed Pipes
Exposed pipes, especially those in basements, attics, and crawl spaces, are at high risk for freezing and bursting. Insulating these pipes with foam or fiberglass pipe wrap can prevent this, and our trusted experts are ready to help you do it safely and affordably.
Additionally, if temperatures drop significantly, consider letting faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing and avoid ice buildup. - Clean Your Gutters
It’s easy to overlook your gutters, but keeping them clear of leaves and debris is crucial in winter. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze, leading to ice dams that damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Take some time to clean out gutters or hire a professional to help you tackle this task safely. - Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With heating systems running around the clock, it’s essential to make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order. Test each detector and replace batteries as needed. This is also a good time to replace old detectors, especially if they’re more than ten years old. - Reverse Ceiling Fans
Reversing the direction of your ceiling fans can help circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling. Most fans have a small switch on the motor housing that changes the direction of the blades. By running fans clockwise on a low speed, you can help distribute warm air more evenly throughout your home. - Protect Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems
If you have outdoor faucets or a sprinkler system, shut off their water supply and drain them to prevent freezing and cracking. For extra protection, install insulated covers on outdoor faucets, especially if temperatures are expected to dip well below freezing. - Inspect Your Roof
Check your roof for missing, loose, or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks and further damage once snow and ice arrive. If you’re not comfortable with heights, consider hiring a roofing professional. Also, make sure any accumulated leaves or debris are cleared away to reduce the risk of ice dams. - Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Avoid last-minute scrambles by preparing your winter essentials now. Stock up on snow shovels, de-icing salts, and other winter supplies before the first storm hits. It’s also wise to keep a small emergency kit in your home in case of power outages, with essentials like flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
Winterizing your home may take a little time and effort, but these preventative steps can make a huge difference in keeping your home comfortable and safe all season long. At Mister Fix-It, we’re here to help you with any repairs or inspections that can protect your home during the winter months. Stay warm and secure this season, knowing that your home is ready for whatever winter brings.
NEXT UP: 28 Items Every Home Owner Should Own