Pennsylvania winters can be unpredictable—and brutal. From below-freezing temperatures to snow and ice storms, the cold season can take a serious toll on your home if you’re not ready.
We Created this Fall-to-Winter Prep Guide to Help You:
- Protect your investment
- Avoid costly repairs
- Maintain a warm, comfortable home
- Run energy-efficienct heating all winter long
Since Pennsylvania ranks 19th among U.S. states for the coldest winter temperatures, homeowners here need to prepare thoroughly for the season.
Instead of trying to tackle everything in one weekend, use this weather-based plan to stay ahead of the freeze.
Your Fall-to-Winter Timeline for Home Prep in PA
Here’s how to break up your tasks by month so you’re ready before the first snow.
September: Outdoor protection and major inspections.
October: Indoor upgrades, energy efficiency, and HVAC tune-ups.
November: Final safety checks and storm/emergency preparedness.
Each job includes:
- Estimated time to complete
- DIY vs. professional tips
- Helpful links for deeper guidance
Have questions? Send us a message or call us (717-299-3914), we’re happy to help.
September Checklist: Outdoor Protection and Major Inspections
1. Clean Gutters & Downspouts
Time: 2–3 hours
DIY if safe / or hire a professional
Leaves and debris cause clogs that can lead to ice dams, roof leaks, and even structural damage. Clean them out early while the weather is still mild.
If you’re not steady on a ladder, always opt for a professional.
2. Inspect Your Roof
Time: 30–60 minutes
DIY with binoculars / Hire a roofer or drone service
Look for cracked shingles, rusted flashing, or sagging areas. If climbing a ladder isn’t safe, a roofing company or drone inspection service can help.
3. Trim Trees & Large Branches
Time: 1–2 hours
DIY with tools / Hire a professional for large trees
Protect your roof and power lines from branches that could fall under the weight of snow or ice.
Bonus Tip: Planting trees in the fall can take the pressure off of your HVAC system even when they’re young.
Check out which shade trees reduce summer cooling costs the most.
4. Store Outdoor Furniture & Equipment
Time: 1–2 hours
DIY
Clean and dry patio furniture to prevent mold. Cover or store grills, garden tools, and lawnmowers.
Don’t forget to:
- Drain fuel from gas-powered tools
- Disconnect garden hoses
- Remove batteries from outdoor electronics
5. Protect Exterior Faucets & Pipes
Time: 30–60 minutes
DIY
- Disconnect and drain all hoses.
- Cover exterior spigots with insulated covers.
- For exposed pipes, wrap them in foam insulation sleeves to prevent freezing.
6. Install Storm Doors & Windows
Time: 2–4 hours
DIY for kits / Professional for full installations
Adds insulation and reduces drafts, helping to retain heat and cut down energy bills.
7. Repair Walkways & Driveways
Time: 1–3 hours depending on damage
DIY for small cracks / Professional for major work
Prevent snowmelt from seeping into cracks and refreezing—leading to trip hazards or costly damage.
8. Check Snow Removal Tools
Time: 30 minutes
DIY
Don’t get caught unprepared during the first snowfall.
- Inspect shovels for cracks
- Test snow blower function
- Restock ice melt or sand
October Checklist: Indoor Comfort, Energy Efficiency, and HVAC Tune-Ups.
9. Schedule HVAC Maintenance
Time: 1 hour
Professional required
Have a certified HVAC technician inspect your furnace or heat pump.
Benefits include:
- Improved efficiency
- Longer lifespan
- Fewer mid-winter breakdowns
Call us at 717-299-3914 or schedule a visit for Preventive HVAC Maintenance.
Check out our professional insight into how you can weigh your options if you’re not sure if you should repair or replace your heat pump.
10. Insulate Attics, Crawl Spaces, and Walls
Time: 2–4 hours
DIY for small jobs / Professional for full insulation
Proper insulation keeps warm air in and cold air out.
Did you know there is a federal tax credit that lets you claim 30% of your insulation materials? The Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Credit runs annually until 2033.
Were you reminded of your attic air conditioner while you were up there inspecting your insulation?Learn about: How to clean your attic air conditioner before the winter season.
11. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Time: 15 minutes
DIY
Switch your ceiling fans to spin clockwise on low to push warm air down from the ceiling. This simple trick can keep you more comfortable and save on heating costs.
Tired of high heating bills? See if geothermal energy is right for you.
12. Seal Drafts with Caulking & Weatherstripping
Time: 1–2 hours
DIY
Use weatherstripping for doors and caulk for windows, baseboards, and vents.
13. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Time: 1–2 hours
Professional installation recommended
Smart thermostats help manage heating schedules and room-by-room comfort remotely. Smart thermostats can be especially helpful in determining the cause of troublesome climate spots throughout your home.
View our Smart Thermostat options.
14. Install or Inspect Whole-Home Air Purifiers
Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours
Professional recommended
Cold weather means more time indoors with the windows shut. Keep your air fresh and allergen-free.
Explore the benefits of home air purifiers and why they’re important for your home’s air quality.
15. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Time: 15–30 minutes
DIY
Replace batteries, test alarms, and check expiration dates. Colder months mean increased heater use, which also raises the risk of system failure or safety issues that can lead to smoke or carbon monoxide.
16. Prepare a Winter Emergency Kit
Time: 30 minutes
DIY
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- First aid supplies
- Blankets
- Non-perishable food & water
17. Maintain Your Generator
Time: 30–60 minutes
DIY or Professional
Start it up, check oil levels, and store enough fuel to last 2–3 days. With so much of our homes relying on electricity, generators are one of the most consistent upgrades we see from homeowners who frequently experience power outages or other interruptions in service. Ask about our 0% APR financing options.
18. Save Emergency Contacts
Time: 15 minutes
DIY
Store numbers for:
- Local HVAC technicians (717-299-3914)
- Utility companies
- Nearby friends or family
- Local emergency services
It’s always smart to take a picture of the list and text it to household members.
19. Ensure Pet Supplies Are Stocked
Time: 15–30 minutes
DIY
Stock at least one week of pet food, medications, and clean water.
20. Prepare Your Vehicle
Time: 1–2 hours
DIY / Professional for snow tire installation
Check:
- Battery charge
- Tire pressure and tread
- Antifreeze levels
- Wipers and windshield washer fluid
21. Create a Backup Heating Plan
Time: 30–60 minutes
DIY
In case of a heating system failure, identify safe options like space heaters, extra blankets and outerwear, or an alternate heat source.
Final Tip: Start Early to Finish Before the First Snowfall
Aim to complete your checklist by mid-November. That way, you’re not racing against the first storm. Even knocking out half of these tasks can make a major difference in your home’s safety, energy costs, and comfort.
Want Help With Your Winter Prep?
Our team can help with:
