Winter prep checklist

A short winter-ready checklist linking Practical Wins tips on heat, moisture, power outages, and cold-weather running. Print it and work through the house once before the first hard freeze.

Note: General information only, not professional advice. Follow product manuals for gas, electrical and generator work; call a licensed pro if you’re unsure.

Heat and comfort

Set a thermostat setback while you’re asleep or away (DOE: as much as 10% a year by turning back 7–10°F for 8 hours; heat-pump caveat). Tip · DOE Energy Saver PDF
Run ceiling fans clockwise on low in winter to push warm air down. Tip · ENERGY STAR
Keep indoor humidity below 60%, ideally 30–50%. Tip · EPA mold guide
Plug space heaters into a wall outlet only—never an extension cord or power strip; keep 3 feet of clearance. Tip · 3-foot rule
Schedule yearly furnace/chimney service before peak heating season. Tip

Water heater and pipes

Confirm water heater delivery temp around 120°F with a meat thermometer. Tip
Insulate accessible hot-water pipes. Tip
Drain and shut off outdoor hose bibs before the first freeze. Tip

Fire and carbon monoxide

Clean the dryer lint filter every load and check the vent hose/flap. Tip · USFA flyer
Install CO alarms on every level and outside bedrooms. Tip
For outages: run portable generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages. Tip · Ready.gov

Cold-weather running

Warm up indoors; dress in loose layers with hat and gloves. Tip
Cover nose, ears, fingers and toes on bitter days. Tip · CDC frostbite
Stock a winter car kit and have the battery checked. Tip

Winter prep checklist

Heat and comfort

Water heater and pipes

Fire and carbon monoxide

Cold-weather running

All linked tips

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