December is almost here, and winter is officially in full swing. The cold, shorter days, and potential storms make it the perfect time to check your home’s winter readiness. Taking a few preventive steps now can protect your home, save on energy bills, and keep your family safe and comfortable all season long.
1. Heating System Check-Up
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Service your furnace or HVAC. If you haven’t already, have a professional inspect your heating system, replace filters, and ensure it’s running efficiently.
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Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. With heaters, fireplaces, and space heaters running, it’s critical these devices are working properly.
Why it matters: A well-maintained system keeps your home warm, energy-efficient, and reduces fire risk.
2. Seal Drafts & Boost Insulation
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Inspect windows and doors. Check weather-stripping and caulking; seal any gaps to keep cold air out.
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Check attic and basement insulation. Proper insulation keeps heat inside, reducing heating costs and improving comfort.
Why it matters: Draft prevention and insulation help maintain a cozy home and lower utility bills.
3. Protect Roof, Gutters & Drainage
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Clear gutters and downspouts. Remove leaves and debris to prevent water backups and ice dams.
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Inspect roof and exterior. Check for damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or worn sealants to avoid leaks from snow or ice.
Why it matters: Proper drainage and roof maintenance prevent water damage, mold, and costly repairs.
4. Winterize Plumbing & Outdoor Fixtures
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Drain and disconnect hoses; insulate exterior pipes. Protect outdoor plumbing from freezing and potential bursts.
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Shut off irrigation systems. Ensure sprinklers and outdoor faucets are fully drained and winterized.
Why it matters: Preventing frozen pipes saves major repair costs and water damage headaches.
5. Pest Prevention & Sealing
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Seal gaps and cracks around your home. Rodents and other pests look for warmth in winter — block their entry points.
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Inspect attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Look for openings and fix any vulnerabilities.
Why it matters: Keeping pests out protects your home’s structure, insulation, and peace of mind.
6. Prepare Your Home for Winter Comfort
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Clean and organize. Vacuum vents, replace furnace filters, and tidy storage areas.
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Check emergency supplies. Make sure flashlights, batteries, blankets, and food are ready for storms or power outages.
Why it matters: A clean, organized, and prepared home ensures safety and comfort all winter long.
Why AWP Home Inspections Can Help
AWP Home Inspections helps homeowners get ahead of winter with thorough inspections and actionable recommendations:
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Assess heating, insulation, roof, plumbing, and exterior systems.
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Identify hidden issues before they turn into costly repairs.
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Provide detailed, easy-to-understand reports with next-step guidance.
❄️ Start December off right — AWP Home Inspections provides buyer’s home inspections in West Central and Central Indiana. Contact us to request our services.