9 things to check before the first freeze hits
The first hard freeze can sneak up on you, and if you’re not ready, it can cost you time, money, and comfort. A little prep goes a long way toward protecting your house, yard, and wallet. Here’s what you’ll want to double-check before the temps drop for good.
Insulate Outdoor Faucets
Unprotected faucets are one of the first things to freeze and burst. Before the first freeze, disconnect hoses and cover spigots with foam covers. If you have a shutoff valve for outdoor lines, turn it off and drain the water. It’s a quick job that saves you from expensive plumbing repairs later.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves and debris clogging your gutters trap water that freezes and expands. That extra weight can pull gutters away from the house and cause ice dams that leak inside. Clear everything out now, and make sure downspouts point away from your foundation to prevent flooding when things thaw.
Seal Gaps and Drafts
Cold air sneaks in through the tiniest cracks around windows and doors. Walk your house with a candle or lighter to see where the flame flickers. Weatherstripping, caulk, or even a draft snake at the door makes a noticeable difference in comfort and heating costs.
Inspect Your Roof
Loose shingles or missing flashing can turn into leaks once snow or ice builds up. Even if you’re not climbing up there, grab binoculars and give your roof a once-over. It’s easier to patch issues now than when water starts dripping into the attic mid-winter.
Wrap Exposed Pipes
Pipes in garages, crawl spaces, or exterior walls are at the highest risk of freezing. Foam pipe insulation is cheap and easy to slip on. In colder regions, you may want heat tape for vulnerable areas. One small upgrade can prevent thousands in water damage.
Test Your Heating System
Don’t wait until the cold hits to discover your furnace isn’t working. Run it early in the season and listen for unusual noises or weak airflow. Change your filter and schedule maintenance if needed. A warm house depends on this step being done before it’s urgent.
Prep the Fireplace
If you rely on wood heat, make sure your chimney is cleaned and inspected. A dirty chimney can cause dangerous buildup and poor airflow. Stock up on dry firewood now, so you’re not scrambling once winter really sets in.
Store Yard Equipment
Mowers, trimmers, and garden tools should be cleaned and stored before freezing temps. Drain gas from equipment or add stabilizer, and coil hoses indoors. Taking care of your tools keeps them working better and lasting longer.
Stock Emergency Supplies
Winter storms can knock out power with little warning. Keep flashlights, blankets, bottled water, and pantry staples on hand. Having backups ready gives peace of mind if the freeze sticks around longer than expected.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
