The Midwest is known for its harsh winters, and if you call places like Omaha, Lincoln, or Council Bluffs home, you understand the importance of preparing your house for the cold, snowy season.
A well-prepared home not only keeps you warm and comfortable but also helps you save on energy bills. To help with all of the above, we’re sharing some essential ways to prepare your home for a Midwest winter!
While winter is still several weeks away, it’s never too early to start preparing your home. You don’t want to start thinking about this after the first snowfall!
Properly Insulate Your Home
Proper insulation is a must to combat the frigid temperatures of a Midwest winter. Insulate your attic, walls, and basement to keep the cold air out and the warm air in. Pay special attention to the attic, as heat tends to escape through the roof; adding extra insulation here can significantly improve energy efficiency. To find out if your home is properly insulated, simply touch the walls — if they feel damp or cold, you need to add more insulation. And inversely, if the exterior feels cold, that’s a good sign! That means the cold is staying out of your interior.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Inspect your home for cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundation walls. Seal any openings with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent drafts from sneaking in. This step not only keeps your home warmer but also lowers your heating bills, as it keeps the warm air in and the cold air out.
Check Your Heating System
Before winter arrives, have your heating system serviced by a professional HVAC technician. Replace air filters, check for leaks, and ensure that everything is in working order. A well-maintained heating system is crucial to staying warm and avoiding unexpected breakdowns during the winter months.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
Consider installing a programmable thermostat if you don’t already have one. These smart devices allow you to set a schedule for your heating system, reducing energy consumption when you’re not at home or while you sleep. This can lead to significant cost savings over the winter — and all year long!
Install a Humidifier
Winters often bring dry air, made even worse by indoor heating systems. Combat this discomfort by installing a humidifier in your home. A humidifier helps maintain an optimal indoor humidity level, alleviating issues like dry skin and respiratory problems, while also safeguarding your wooden furniture and flooring from the damaging effects of excessive dryness. Be sure to maintain and clean your humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, and aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50% for the most comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
Inspect + Clean Your Chimney and Fireplaces
Prior to using your fireplace during the winter, it’s crucial to have it professionally inspected and cleaned. The accumulation of soot and creosote inside the chimney can pose safety hazards and even lead to chimney fires. Additionally, ensure that the damper functions correctly, and consider the installation of a chimney cap to keep out debris and unwanted critters. It’s wise to hire a chimney sweep to perform a thorough inspection and cleaning before your first fire of the season.
Clear Your Gutters
Cleaning your gutters before winter is essential to preventing ice dams. When gutters are clogged with leaves and debris from the fall, water can back up and freeze, causing damage to your roof and eaves — and might even result in a roof leak. Make sure your gutters are clear to allow proper water flow when it rains.
Adjust Your Ceiling Fans
As you transition from air conditioning to heat, don’t forget to reverse the direction of your ceiling fans. Setting them to rotate clockwise helps distribute warm air, pushing it down from the ceiling to the floor where you can feel the warmth. This simple adjustment maximizes the efficiency of your heating system and has the potential to significantly reduce your winter heating costs.
Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces — and don’t forget to cover your outdoor faucets with foam covers. When temperatures dip below freezing, let sink and bath/shower faucets drip slightly to keep water moving and prevent freezing.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to break and damage your home or power lines. Trim branches that hang over your roof, walkways, or power lines to prevent accidents and property damage.
Create an Emergency Kit
As a precaution, create an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, blankets, and a first-aid kit. Midwest winters can bring unexpected power outages, so having these supplies readily available can provide peace of mind.
Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Be prepared for winter storms by stocking up on essential supplies like rock salt or ice melt, shovels, and a snow blower. Having these items on hand will make it easier to clear snow and ice from your driveway and walkways after a heavy snowfall.
Have a Safe + Cozy Winter!
By insulating your home, sealing cracks and gaps, and taking other proactive measures, you can stay warm and cozy while minimizing your winter energy bills. Start preparing your home for winter now to enjoy a worry-free season!