Ten Tips to Prep Your Boise Home for Winter

As the crisp fall air settles over Boise, it's the perfect time to prepare your home for winter's snow and cold temperatures. Proper winterization not only keeps your home comfortable but also helps prevent costly repairs. Here's a friendly guide to ensure your Boise home is ready for the season.

1. Insulate Pipes and Water Systems

Exposed pipes in crawl spaces and attics are vulnerable to freezing. Insulate these areas to prevent potential bursts. Additionally, consider using foam covers for outdoor faucets and schedule a professional sprinkler blowout to protect your irrigation system from freezing.

2. Clean Gutters and Check Roof

Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams and water damage. Clean them out and inspect your roof for missing shingles or debris. Ensuring proper attic insulation can also prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of ice dams.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase heating costs. Check for gaps and apply weatherstripping or caulk where needed. 

4. Service Your Heating System

Schedule a furnace inspection to ensure it's running efficiently. Replace filters and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat to optimize heating schedules and save energy.

5. Test Safety Alarms

With increased use of heating systems, it's crucial to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Test them and replace batteries as needed to keep your home safe.

6. Protect Outdoor Spaces

Bring in or cover outdoor furniture to prevent damage from snow and ice. For plants, consider bringing them indoors or covering them with frost blankets to shield them from freezing temperatures.

7. Inspect Siding and Foundation

Check for cracks or gaps in your home's siding and foundation. Sealing these can prevent cold air and moisture from entering, maintaining your home's warmth and structural integrity.

8. Prepare for Snow

Keep a snow shovel and pet-safe ice melt accessible - and buy an extra jug or two of windshield wiper fluid! Now is the time to stock up, as these items also sell out after a winter storm hits.  

9. Have Your Fireplace and Chimney Inspected

Before lighting that first cozy fire, schedule a professional chimney sweep and safety inspection. This removes creosote buildup, checks for blockages, and ensures your fireplace is venting properly.

10. Tune Up Your Water Heater

Sediment builds up over time and can make your water heater less efficient. Flush the tank and check the pressure relief valve.