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What should I do before the first winter in my new home?

Have your heating system serviced and filters replaced. Seal drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk. Insulate exposed pipes in the basement, attic, or crawl space. Clean gutters and downspouts. Disconnect and store garden hoses. Stock winter supplies: ice melt, snow shovel, and emergency kit. Test your snow removal plan.

Why It Matters

The first winter reveals every draft and insulation gap. Preparing in fall prevents frozen pipes, high heating bills, and emergency calls on the coldest days.

Related Questions

What should I do the first week after moving in? What should I do the first month after moving in? What should I do the first year after buying a home? How much should I budget for home maintenance? What tools should every homeowner own?

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