Winter in New Hampshire brings its unique set of challenges for homeowners. From freezing temperatures, and ice to heavy snowfall, it’s critical to prepare your home to ensure it remains safe, warm and improves energy efficiency. Here are 12 practical winter home maintenance tips to help protect your investment and keep your home in top shape throughout the season.
1. Inspect and Clean Gutters
Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves, dirt, and debris to prevent ice dams. These frozen blockages can damage your roof or cause leaks inside your home.
2. Check the Roof for Leaks and Ice Dams
Inspect your roof for missing shingles, cracks, or leaks. Address areas susceptible to ice dams by improving attic insulation and ventilation, which prevents heat from escaping and melting snow unevenly.
3. Seal Drafts and Insulate Windows
Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating costs; if power goes out, you’ll lose heat quickly. Seal gaps with caulk or weather stripping, and consider storm windows or insulating window film to reduce heat loss and help potentially improve your heating costs.
4. Service the Heating System
Schedule a professional inspection for your furnace, boiler, or heat pump. Replace filters regularly to ensure the system operates efficiently, keeping your home cozy and energy bills manageable.
5. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This helps circulate warm air trapped near the ceiling, enhancing heating efficiency in rooms with high ceilings.
6. Check for Pipe Insulation
Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, or crawl spaces. Proper insulation reduces the risk of frozen pipes, which can burst and cause costly damage.
7. Clean the Chimney
If your home has a wood-burning fireplace, inspect and clean the chimney to remove creosote buildup. This reduces the risk of chimney fires and ensures safe operation.
8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With the increased use of heating systems in winter, the risk of carbon monoxide exposure rises. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly and replace batteries as needed.
9. Check the Attic for Proper Insulation
A properly insulated attic prevents heat from escaping, reducing heating costs and minimizing the risk of ice dams. Inspect insulation levels and address any deficiencies.
10. Drain Exterior Water Lines
Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets to prevent the pipes from freezing. If possible, shut off the water supply to these faucets for additional protection.
11. Seal Driveway and Walkways
Repair cracks in your driveway or walkways before the freeze-thaw cycle exacerbates the damage. A well-maintained surface reduces hazards and prevents costly repairs
12. Stock Up on Snow Removal Supplies
Prepare for snowstorms by ensuring you have shovels, a working snowblower, and de-icing salt. Check your supplies and test your snowblower before the first snow to avoid unwanted surprises. Reflective gear and a headlamp are also helpful for nighttime snow removal.
Stay Warm and Safe This Winter
Taking these 12 winter home maintenance tips will not only protect your home from the season’s unpredictable nature but also improve energy efficiency and your comfort. A well-maintained home is better equipped to handle New Hampshire’s winters, ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.
For more tips on maintaining your property or finding your dream home in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, contact Roche Realty Group today. Let us help you make the most of your real estate investment in every season.
