We’re constantly promoting the use of checklists in business to inspect equipment, facilities, and processes. However, we know that everyone who has need of inspection checklists at work also has a life away from work. And checklists can help them there, too.

A prime example is getting your home ready for winter. That’s something you only do once a year, so how can you expect to remember everything you need to get done? You don’t want to have to spend time thinking about it every year, so what you need is a checklist you can refer to each winter.

We’re glad to provide that checklist for you below. The days are already getting cold, so if you haven’t yet taken these steps, now’s the time—before the weather hits that’s the hardest on your home, and your energy bill!

Home Winterization Checklist

• Heating system. Be sure the furnace or boiler is clean, has no defects, and attains its manufacturer-rated efficiency. Change air filters, check for carbon monoxide leakage, and top off fuel levels for natural gas or propane systems. If you need repairs or a tune-up, it’s much better to call now than to wait until a major winter storm is imminent and technicians are backed up
• The chimney. Check the firebox and flue to ensure they are clean of soot and creosote. The chimney may need to be cleaned to prevent chimney fires and carbon monoxide buildup. Also look for cracks, which can be a fire hazard, and check the damper for warping, rusting, or wear, which can cause a draft even when the damper is closed.
• Windows and doors. Check for any gaps that need sealing with caulk and for weather-stripping that needs replacing. Repair any cracks or holes in window glass.
• Ceiling fans. Make sure all of them are set on reverse, to push hot air down into rooms.
• The attic. Look for air leaks and inadequate insulation, which can lead to ice dams that can cause water to back up into the home.
• The roof. Fix any missing, damaged or missing shingles that could leak during winter storms. Also, look for worn flashing around the chimney and vent pipes. Make sure soffit vents aren’t obstructed and gable vents are open. Sweep or blow off any fall leaves or pine needles, which will hold moisture.
• Gutters. Check gutters for clogging, which can cause ice dams. Make sure downspouts aren’t blocked and are positioned at least five feet away from the house, so that melting snow won't flood the foundation. Test the fastening of the gutters and downspouts, keeping in mind the weight of snow, which can pull them away from a home.
• Branches. Cut back overgrown branches near the house and electrical wires. When branches ice over, they can fall and cause property damage or take out power lines.
• Water lines along outer walls. Ensure the insulation is adequate to prevent the water from freezing. (If there’s no insulation, it should be installed).
• Exterior Faucets.  Drain all your garden hoses and the remaining water in the faucets and then turn them off. This prevents the formation of ice that can crack pipes.
• Sprinkler systems.  Lawn irrigation systems also need to be drained to avoid damage from freezing.
• Outside lighting.  Exterior lighting is particularly important in icy conditions. Make sure each light is working and not obstructed.
• Supply of salt, sand, or ice melt. Stock up before the coldest weather hits, when it may be hard to get.
• Emergency supplies.  Check for working flashlights, batteries, candles, radios, firewood, etc. that you will need if the power goes out. 
• Generator. If you have a generator in case of power loss, don’t wait to inspect it until you need it! Crank it up now to make sure it’ll work.
• Carbon-monoxide detector. Fuel-burning heaters can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide, so it’s vital that a working carbon-monoxide detector is near where such heaters are used.

Takeaway

Don’t let the winter get the best of your home because you forgot to take an important step in winterizing it. Use a checklist!