Tips to Get Your Home Ready for Winter Weather in New Hampshire
Winter in New Hampshire is beautiful — but it can also be tough on your home. As the temperatures drop and the snow starts to fall, now is the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for the cold months ahead. Whether you live in Concord, Bow, Hopkinton, or anywhere in Merrimack County, a little preparation can save you time, money, and stress this winter.
Here are some simple tips to get your home ready for winter weather in New Hampshire.
1. Check Your Heating System
Before the freezing temperatures arrive, have your furnace or boiler serviced by a licensed technician. Regular maintenance keeps your system running efficiently and helps lower heating costs. If you have a wood stove or fireplace, have your chimney inspected and cleaned to prevent fires and ensure good ventilation.
✅ Local tip: Schedule your tune-up early—HVAC companies in the Concord area book up fast once the first cold snap hits!
2. Seal Windows and Doors
Cold drafts are one of the biggest culprits of high winter energy bills. Check your windows and doors for leaks and add weather stripping or caulking where needed. You can also use insulated curtains or window film kits to help keep the warmth in and the chill out.
✅ Bonus: A few hours of sealing can make your Concord NH home more comfortable all season long.
3. Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are a common issue in New England homes. To prevent them:
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Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spaces like basements and garages.
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Keep a slow drip of water running on very cold nights.
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Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate.
✅ Pro tip: Know where your main water shutoff valve is—just in case a pipe bursts.
4. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
When the last of the leaves have fallen, clean out your gutters and downspouts so melting snow and ice can flow freely. Clogged gutters can cause ice dams, which may lead to roof leaks and water damage.
✅ Tip: Make sure your downspouts direct water at least 3 feet away from your foundation to prevent flooding when snow melts.
5. Inspect Your Roof
Snow, ice, and wind can cause significant wear on roofs in Merrimack County. Check for missing shingles, cracked flashing, or loose gutters before winter storms arrive. Small repairs now can prevent expensive damage later.
✅ Safety first: Hire a professional for roof inspections or repairs if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
6. Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Be ready for the first snowstorm by checking your snow shovels, ice melt, and snowblower. Keep a few essentials on hand—flashlights, extra batteries, and blankets—in case of a power outage. Also, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, especially if you’re heating with gas or wood.
7. Winterize Your Outdoor Spaces
Don’t forget about the exterior of your home:
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Drain and store garden hoses.
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Turn off and drain outdoor faucets.
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Cover or store patio furniture.
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Trim back tree branches near your house or power lines to avoid storm damage.
✅ Tip: A quick outdoor cleanup now makes spring maintenance much easier!
Stay Warm, Safe, and Ready for the Season
With just a bit of preparation, your New Hampshire home can handle even the coldest Northeast winter with ease. These steps will help keep your property safe, cozy, and energy-efficient all season long.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Concord, Bow, Hopkinton, or the surrounding areas, I’d love to help you make your next move. As a local Concord NH real estate agent, I know what it takes to keep homes in great shape for our four beautiful (and sometimes challenging!) New England seasons.
Contact me today to talk about your real estate goals—or for more tips on keeping your home ready for winter in New Hampshire!
