Winter Maintenace Checklist

Winter has settled in, the snow is piling up, and your home is working overtime just to keep things warm and comfortable. This is the season when small issues show themselves quickly, and if they’re missed, they can turn into costly repairs by spring.

The goal during winter isn’t perfection. It’s paying attention.

Here are a few things we recommend keeping an eye on throughout the winter, followed by a checklist you can use anytime.

A Few Minutes Outside (When It’s Safe)

After a snowfall or a thaw, take a quick walk around your home.

You’re not climbing on the roof or inspecting anything closely, just noticing. Heavy snow buildup, large icicles, or ice forming along the eaves can be signs of heat loss or ventilation issues.

Make sure furnace exhausts, dryer vents, bathroom vents, and plumbing vents stay clear of snow. These get blocked more often than people realize.

If possible, keep snow pulled back from foundation walls and window wells. These areas are common trouble spots when things start to melt.

Inside the Home, Watch for Freezing & Leaks

Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter issues we see, especially in older homes.

Keep your heat set consistently, even if you’re away. Run water occasionally in fixtures that don’t get used much.

Every now and then, open the cabinet doors under the sinks and take a quick look. You’re watching for moisture, frost, or drips that weren’t there before.

If there’s plumbing in the garage or near exterior walls, keep an extra eye on it during cold snaps.

How the Heat Feels Matters

Your furnace should heat the home evenly without constantly running.

Change or clean furnace filters regularly during winter. A plugged filter makes the system work harder than it needs to.

Pay attention to new noises, rooms that suddenly feel colder, or frequent cycling. Small changes often show up before bigger problems do.

If you use a humidifier, balance is key. Too much moisture can cause condensation, window frost, and attic issues.

Condensation Is Your Early Warning

Some condensation is normal in winter, but constant moisture isn’t.

Wipe moisture from windows when you see it. Use bathroom and kitchen fans, even when it’s cold outside.

Check the basement occasionally for damp spots, musty smells, or new staining.

If you ever notice frost around attic access points, that’s a sign warm, moist air is getting where it shouldn’t.

Safety Still Comes First

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly. Winter is when heating systems run the hardest.

Be cautious with space heaters and extension cords. Keep heaters clear of anything combustible.

If you use a fireplace or wood stove, make sure it’s being used properly and safely.

Homes Move in Winter, Just Watch for Sudden Changes

Some seasonal movement is normal. Sudden changes aren’t.

Doors that suddenly won’t close, new drywall cracks, or loud popping sounds are all worth noting. If something feels off, trust that instinct.

Rural Homes Need Extra Attention

If you’re on a well or septic system, winter checks are even more important.

Keep septic lids and vents accessible. Watch for slow drains or unusual odours.

Make sure sump pump discharge lines aren’t frozen and that outbuildings aren’t overloaded with drifting snow.

✔️ During-Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

Use this checklist anytime during winter, weekly, monthly, or after big weather changes.

Exterior

• ⬜ Roof monitored for heavy snow or ice buildup

• ⬜ Vents and exhaust pipes clear of snow

• ⬜ Window wells kept clear

• ⬜ Snow pulled back from the foundation where possible

Plumbing

• ⬜ Heat kept at a consistent temperature

• ⬜ Rarely used faucets run occasionally

• ⬜ No leaks, frost, or moisture under sinks

• ⬜ Garage or exterior-wall plumbing checked

Heating & Comfort

• ⬜ Furnace filter cleaned or replaced

• ⬜ Vents and returns unobstructed

• ⬜ No unusual furnace noises or cycling

• ⬜ Indoor humidity kept in check

Moisture & Air Quality

• ⬜ Window condensation monitored and wiped

• ⬜ Bathroom and kitchen fans that are used regularly

• ⬜ Basement checked for dampness or odours

• ⬜ No frost around attic access

Safety

• ⬜ Smoke detectors tested

• ⬜ Carbon monoxide detectors tested

• ⬜ Space heaters used safely

• ⬜ Fireplace or wood stove operating properly

Rural Properties

• ⬜ Septic lids and vents accessible

• ⬜ No slow drains or septic odours

• ⬜ Sump pump discharge not frozen

• ⬜ Outbuildings checked for snow load

Winter problems rarely show up all at once; they start small. Paying attention during the season is one of the best things you can do to protect your home.

If you’re ever unsure about something you’re seeing, it’s better to ask early than deal with a bigger issue later.