Winter-Ready Home Hacks: Stay Warm, Save Money, and Stay Prepared

Winter can be brutal, but your home can be a fortress against the cold if you prep it right. Here’s how to winter-proof your house for warmth, efficiency, and emergency readiness.

Start by sealing up drafts. Check windows and doors for leaks and use weather stripping, caulk, or even rolled-up towels as temporary fixes. Heavy curtains or thermal blinds keep warmth in and cold out.

Insulate where you can. Add foam pipe covers to exposed plumbing and wrap your water heater in an insulation blanket to cut down on energy use. If your attic is under-insulated, it’s worth adding more—heat loss through the roof is no joke.

Consider backup heat sources. A wood-burning stove or kerosene heater can be lifesavers during power outages. Stock extra fuel, and make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working.

Lastly, prep your home’s exterior. Clear gutters, trim back trees, and keep salt or sand handy for icy walkways. Small prep now can prevent costly damage later.

Pro Tips:

Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air down.

Use draft snakes or DIY them with old socks and rice.

Cover vents in unused rooms to redirect heat where it’s needed.

Place rugs over bare floors for extra insulation.