Home Care Tips for Cold Weather
Oxford weather can be unpredictable and can change quickly this time of year. One day it can be warm and sunny, and the next day you may need your heaviest winter coat.
When winter temperatures drop below freezing, your home needs a little extra care. A hard freeze can lead to burst pipes and high energy bills, but with a few proactive steps, you can protect your home, avoid costly repairs and high utility bills, and stay warm and comfortable all season long.
Protect Your Pipes
One of the most common winter disasters is frozen or burst pipes. When water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on pipes until they crack or burst.
Insulate exposed pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and garages.
Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses.
Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers.
Let faucets drip slightly during extremely cold nights to keep water moving.
Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
If you are out of town for long periods, consider turning your water off at the meter.
Seal Drafts and Keep Heat Inside
Cold air sneaking in means warm air (and money) sneaking out.
Check doors and windows for gaps and add weather stripping if needed.
Use caulk to seal small cracks around windows, doors, and siding.
Close fireplace dampers when not in use.
Programmable thermostats can really help reduce heating bills by lowering the temperature automatically when you are away.
Reverse ceiling fans in the winter to push warm air down.
These small fixes can significantly improve comfort and lower heating bills.
Prepare Your Heating System
Your heater works overtime in freezing weather, so make sure it’s ready.
Change your HVAC filter regularly to improve efficiency.
Schedule a professional inspection if you haven’t had one this year.
Keep vents clear of furniture, rugs, and curtains.
Make sure space heaters are used safely and never left unattended.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Freezing weather can be unpredictable, but your home and your bank account don’t have to suffer because of it. Taking time to prepare now can save you from expensive repairs, high utility bills, and unnecessary stress later. A well-maintained home not only protects your investment—it keeps your family safe, warm, and comfortable all winter long.