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Winter storms can be unpredictable—and when temperatures drop and power outages happen, being prepared can make a big difference in keeping your home safe and comfortable. Taking a few simple steps ahead of time can help prevent frozen pipes, heating issues, and even dangerous situations.
Here are five important things every homeowner should do before a winter storm arrives.
1. Check Your Fuel Supply
If you live in a rural area and your heating system relies on fuel delivery, make sure you have enough fuel on hand before the storm hits. Check the level in your propane or fuel oil tank and aim to keep it above 50% capacity.
Severe weather can delay deliveries, and running low on fuel during a cold snap can quickly turn into an emergency. A quick check now can save you a lot of stress later.
2. Store Extra Potable Water
Fill several gallon jugs with potable (drinking) water and keep them in an accessible place. If the power goes out, having extra water on hand can be extremely helpful for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, and even flushing toilets.
You may not think about water during a winter storm, but power outages can affect well pumps and municipal systems. A little preparation goes a long way.
3. Keep Appliance Flues Clear of Snow
If your home has high-efficiency appliances, such as a furnace or boiler, check the venting outside your home. These appliances are typically vented through PVC piping that exits through a sidewall.
Blowing or drifting snow can easily block these flues, which may cause the appliance to shut down—or worse, create a dangerous situation. After heavy snowfall, take a moment to visually inspect vent pipes and clear away any snow or ice buildup.
4. Make Sure You Have a Working Carbon Monoxide Detector
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Winter storms and power outages often increase the risk of CO exposure due to alternative heating methods or blocked venting.
Common risk situations include:
Using a generator
Burning wood in a fireplace that isn’t used often
Drifting snow blocking a flue pipe
Using unvented appliances, such as ventless fireplaces or fuel-burning space heaters
A quality carbon monoxide detector costs less than $100 and could save your life. We strongly recommend a model with a digital display so you can clearly see CO levels. Without a display, a CO alarm may be treated like a smoke detector—something people try to silence without understanding the danger.
5. Protect Pipes Along Exterior Walls
Pipes running along exterior walls are especially vulnerable to freezing. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air from your home to circulate around the plumbing.
Additional tips to help prevent frozen pipes include:
Keeping your thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even overnight
Sealing drafts near plumbing fixtures
Letting faucets drip slightly during extreme cold
Frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes and costly water damage, so taking preventive steps is well worth the effort.