As the days get shorter and the air gets crisper, it’s time to start thinking about how to prepare your home for winter. A little prep now can save you from headaches (and higher bills) later. Here are some simple, practical steps every homeowner can take to keep their home cozy, safe, and energy-efficient when the temperatures drop.

1. Seal Out the Drafts

Walk around your home and feel for chilly drafts near windows and doors. If you notice any, grab some weatherstripping or caulk and seal those gaps. Draft stoppers at the base of doors are also a cheap and easy fix. Not only will this make your home warmer, but it’ll also help lower your heating costs.

2. Give Your Heating System Some Love

Before winter really sets in, change out your furnace filter (and keep doing this every 1–3 months during the season). If it’s been a while since your last professional check-up, consider scheduling a tune-up. A clean, well-maintained system runs more efficiently and is less likely to break down on the coldest day of the year.

3. Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can be a nightmare. To prevent them, insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas like the basement, garage, or crawl space. When temps dip really low, let faucets drip just a little to keep water moving. It’s a small trick that can save you a big plumbing bill.

4. Check Your Fireplace & Chimney

If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, make sure it’s ready to go. Get your chimney cleaned if it hasn’t been done in a while, and stock up on firewood. Not only is it a cozy feature, but a safe fireplace also gives you peace of mind on those snowy nights.

5. Clean Out the Gutters

No one loves this chore, but clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can damage your roof. A quick clean before the first big snow ensures water and melting ice can drain properly.

6. Get Your Winter Gear Ready

Don’t forget the outside of your home! Bring in or cover patio furniture, store garden hoses, and make sure your snow shovel, salt, or snow blower are ready to go. It’s always better to find out you need new gear before the first storm hits.

A Little Effort Goes a Long Way

Winterizing your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Knock out these tasks over a weekend and you’ll be thanking yourself all season long when your home feels snug, safe, and ready for whatever winter throws at you.