January 14, 2026

Your home works hard to keep you comfortable all winter long—and a little seasonal maintenance helps it do that job well.

When your home is sealed up tight against the cold, a few key parts of your home work harder than they do all year. Heating runs nonstop. Moisture has nowhere to go. Small drafts turn into cold spots. And snow can pile up around vents and meters without you noticing.

Doing these small tasks throughout the winter helps prevent damage, improves comfort, and ensure you avoid unexpected repairs.

1. Heating, Air & Comfort

Your heating and ventilation systems are working overtime right now. A few small maintenance tasks keep them running efficiently and safely.

• Change furnace filters monthly.
• Check and clean HRV or ventilation filters every 1–2 months.
• Clean your humidifier 2–3 times over winter.
• Vacuum bathroom fan grilles.
• Clean refrigerator and freezer coils.

2. Moisture & Condensation

Excess moisture is one of the most common causes of winter damage, which often starts quietly.

• Watch for condensation or frost on windows.
• Run bathroom and kitchen fans during and after use.
• Lower humidifier settings if windows stay wet.
• Pay attention to musty smells or damp areas in your basement.

3. Drafts & Heat Loss

If your home feels chilly in certain spots, small gaps are often the reason. Cold air leaks cost you money and make rooms uncomfortable.

• Check windows and doors for cold air leaks.
• Look for ice buildup around frames or thresholds.
• Inspect weatherstripping and door hardware for gaps, tears, or loose seals.
• Make note of areas that’ll need to be repaired in the spring.

4. Safety Checks

Mid-winter is a good time to make sure basic safety items are still doing their job. A few minutes of checking now can prevent serious problems.

• Vacuum smoke and fire detectors to allow the sensors to do their jobs.
• Check fire extinguisher pressure gauges.
• Inspect cords and plugs for seasonal lighting for frayed wires or loose connections.
• Confirm exterior lighting is working to help avoid dark walkways and entrances.

5. Exterior Winter Checks

Snow and ice can block essential systems if they’re allowed to build up. Keeping a few key areas clear prevents damage and keeps your home running smoothly.

Keep snow and ice clear of:

• Gas meters
• Furnace and dryer vents
• Chimneys
• Basement windows

Do You Need to Do Winter Home Maintenance Yourself?

Not necessarily.

Some homeowners prefer to stay hands-on and tackle seasonal maintenance themselves and you can download our printable Home Maintenance Checklist here. Others would rather work with a team that proactively handles upkeep or takes care of repairs as they come up.

Either approach works—what matters is catching small issues early, before they turn into larger, more expensive problems.

If you’ve spotted warning signs or you’d simply prefer to have a professional handle seasonal maintenance, our Home Care team can help. We’ll walk through your home, take care of the tasks that protect your investment, and give you peace of mind for the rest of the season.

Schedule your consultation →