How to winterize your house and avoid costly damage

September 23rd, 2019

Updated Sept. 26, 2025, at 8:55 a.m. CT

Winter in the Midwest is no joke. Freezing temps, snow and ice can take a toll on your home if you’re not prepared. But a little prep work now can save you from costly repairs later—while also keeping your energy bills in check and helping you avoid frustrating homeowner’s insurance claims.

Not sure where to start?

This simple winterizing checklist covers the most important things you can do, inside and out, to keep your house safe and cozy all season long.

Why winterizing your home matters

Winterizing isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protection:

Prevent expensive damage: Frozen pipes, ice dams and chimney fires are common Midwest homeowner’s insurance claims each winter.
Save on energy costs: A well-maintained furnace and sealed-up home can help cut heating bills.
Keep your family safe: From preventing carbon monoxide leaks to reducing slip hazards, these steps can give you peace of mind.

Your step-by-step winterizing checklist

This checklist can help you get started.

When should you start winterizing?

You’ll want to get started in early fall, September or October, before the first hard frost hits.

Schedule a furnace inspection

Your furnace works overtime in a Midwest winter. A yearly tune-up ensures it’s running efficiently and safely.

Plus, it can catch dangerous problems like carbon monoxide leaks before they become emergencies. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless.

Don't forget

Change your furnace filter every 1-3 months, depending on your filter and household conditions, to keep air flowing smoothly and your system from overworking.

Schedule a fireplace and chimney inspection

If you enjoy fires in the winter, schedule a chimney cleaning before the first cold snap.

Blockages can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or even chimney fires—which can spread fast and cause major damage.

Replace batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

These vital pieces of equipment can only do their job if they’re equipped with working batteries. You should replace them twice a year.

Clean your gutters and downspouts

Clogged gutters are a leading cause of ice dams, which can damage your roof, ceilings and walls.

Clear out leaves, sticks and other debris before snow starts falling.

Did you know?

Ice dams are one of the most common winter insurance claims Dupaco Insurance Services sees each year.

Protect pipes from freezing

Frozen pipes lead to burst pipes—and thousands of dollars in repairs.

To avoid that:

Disconnect and store garden hoses.
Shut off and drain outdoor faucets.
Insulate exposed indoor pipes.
On bitterly cold nights, open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach plumbing and prevent them from freezing.

Clean up your yard and store outdoor items

Protect your investments. Properly store gas-powered tools, patio furniture and other outdoor items.

Prevent falls on your property—and insurance claims that come with them—by keeping your walkways and driveway clear of leaves, snow and ice.

Seal drafts and check insulation

Walk around windows and doors. If you feel cold air, you’ll want to add weather stripping or caulk.

Attic insulation is especially important for preventing heat loss and ice dams.

Keep your home and budget safe this winter

Winter prep doesn’t take long. But it can save you money, stress and insurance claims when weather hits hard.

Looking for more ways to protect your home (and your budget)?

Explore homeowner’s insurance options with Dupaco Insurance Services.
Learn how the equity in your home could help cover major home repairs.
Get tips on flooding prevention for your home.