Winter Home Prep: Your Essential Checklist for a Safe, Warm Season
- Eric Frank
- Oct 4
- 3 min read
As the cooler months approach in South Georgia, it's time to make sure your home is ready to handle whatever winter throws your way. At Altamaha Home Inspections, we believe preparation is protection—and that starts with inspecting your home's major systems and exterior before the cold sets in.
Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through the key areas to check and maintain. Plus, we’ve included a detailed printable checklist to make your winter prep simple and stress-free.
🔧 HVAC System: Keep the Heat Flowing
Your heating system works hardest in winter—don’t wait until it fails to find out it needs attention.
- Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up
- Replace air filters and test your thermostat
- Seal duct leaks and clear debris from outdoor units
- Check refrigerant lines for proper insulation and repair damaged foam sleeves
-Run the Emergency Heater function of your HVAC unit. Expect a possible burning smell as the dust burns off the coils - this is normal.
🏠 Roof & Gutters: Defend Against Water Intrusion
Summer heat and storms can wear down your roof—now’s the time to catch issues before winter rain makes them worse.
- Inspect for missing or damaged shingles
- Check flashing and roof seams for wear
- Clean gutters and confirm downspouts drain properly
- Replenish roof caulk or tar at fasteners and seams exposed to sun
🚰 Plumbing: Prevent Frozen Pipe Nightmares
Cold snaps can wreak havoc on unprotected plumbing. A few simple steps can prevent costly damage.
- Insulate exposed pipes in crawlspaces and attics
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and irrigation systems
- Flush and inspect your hot water heater
- Check pressure relief valve and look for signs of corrosion
- Inspect propane tanks for leaks and fuel levels
🪟 Windows, Doors & Garage Door: Seal Out the Cold
Drafts and moisture love to sneak in through weak seals. Tighten up your home’s envelope before winter hits.
- Check window seals and weatherstripping for cracks or gaps
- Inspect door thresholds and sweeps for wear or daylight leaks
- Test locks and latches for smooth operation
- Look for condensation or fogging between window panes
- Lubricate garage door tracks and hinges
- Test garage door auto-reverse safety feature
- Ensure garage door seals tightly against the ground
🌳 Exterior & Vegetation: Protect Your Perimeter
Your home’s exterior is its first line of defense. Keep it clear, sealed, and storm-ready.
- Trim back trees and shrubs near the house
- Remove dead branches and clear debris from the foundation
- Inspect crawlspace vents and foundation for gaps or cracks
- Store outdoor furniture and tools securely
⚡ Electrical & Safety Systems: Stay Powered and Protected
Winter storms can knock out power—make sure your safety systems are ready.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Inspect exterior outlets and lighting
- Check backup power systems and emergency flashlights
✅ Download Your Printable Winter Prep Checklist
We’ve created a clean, branded checklist you can print and use to walk through your winter prep step by step. It includes inspection points for:
- HVAC
- Roof & Gutters
- Plumbing
- Windows, Doors & Garage Door
- Exterior & Vegetation
- Electrical & Safety Systems
📄 Download Altamaha Winter Prep Checklist (PDF) found below!
Winter prep doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few proactive steps now can save thousands in repairs later—and keep your home safe, warm, and efficient all season long.
Need help with a pre-winter inspection or want to learn more about our Defect Cost Reports?
📞 Call us at (912) 255-1973
🌐 Visit www.altamahahi.com
Let Altamaha Home Inspections help you winterize with confidence.
Good read!!!