Preparing Your Home for Winter in Colorado Springs

Preparing Your Colorado Springs Home for Winter: Essential Tips for Homeowners

Winter in Colorado Springs can be unpredictable. While the area often enjoys mild weather, it's not unusual for one or two significant snowstorms or extreme cold spells to roll in each year.  As we approach the colder months, now is the perfect time to ensure your home is ready to withstand whatever winter throws your way.

Here are some key steps you can take to prepare your home and keep your family safe and comfortable throughout the winter season:

1. Have an Emergency Plan and Supplies

Winter storms can sometimes knock out power or heat for days at a time. Create a 72-hour emergency kit for your household with enough food, water, medications, and supplies to last at least three days. 

Be sure to follow local weather updates from trusted local news stations for storm warnings and alerts.

2. Protect Your Home's Exterior

Winter storms can wreak havoc on the outside of your home. A few essential maintenance steps can prevent major issues:

• Clean gutters to ensure proper drainage.

• Inspect your roof for leaks, and consider having a professional check its stability in the event of heavy snowfall.

• Install storm shutters or storm windows to protect your home from wind damage.

• Weatherproof doors and windows by adding caulking and weather stripping to prevent drafts and improve energy efficiency.

• Insulate walls and attics to retain heat and reduce the strain on your heating system.

3. Keep Your Heating Systems in Check

The last thing you want in the dead of winter is a heating failure. Be sure to:

• Service your furnace or heating system before temperatures drop. Clean or replace filters as needed.

• Stock up on heating fuel, whether it's natural gas, wood, or oil, to avoid shortages after a storm.

• Install and check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly. Test batteries and replace them as needed to avoid dangerous situations.

4. Prevent Frozen Pipes

Colorado Springs is no stranger to freezing temperatures. Frozen pipes can burst and cause significant damage to your home. To prevent this:

• Insulate your pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces.

• Let faucets drip slightly to prevent freezing, especially when temperatures plunge overnight.

• Know how to shut off your water valves in case a pipe does burst, allowing you to act quickly.

5. Prepare for Snow Removal

• Service snow removal equipment like shovels and snow blowers in advance.

• Stock up on rock salt or other de-icing materials for sidewalks and driveways.

• Use kitty litter for extra traction if needed.

• 6. Stay Safe and Warm Indoors

In case you lose power or heat, have safe emergency heating options available, such as portable electric space heaters. If you have a functioning fireplace, stock up on firewood before the cold hits. Be cautious about using any indoor heating equipment, and always have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of emergencies.

By following these tips, you’ll not only protect your home but also help ensure the safety of your family and community. Winter weather in Colorado Springs may be unpredictable, but with a bit of preparation, you’ll be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.