A Major Snowstorm Is Coming: What Homeowners Should Do Before the Freeze Hits

Winter storms are one of the leading causes of emergency home repairs. Most of them are preventable with a few proactive steps taken before temperatures drop. So, with a major snowstorm forecasted to impact large parts of the country this weekend, now is the time to prepare your home for freezing temperatures, snow accumulation, and potential power outages. A little preventative maintenance now can help you avoid costly repairs later, especially when it comes to plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.

At Armadillo, we help protect homeowners from unexpected breakdowns year-round. Before the first flakes fall end of week, use this checklist to help safeguard your home:

❄️ Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Hose Lines Frozen exterior pipes are one of the most common causes of winter water damage. This quick task can prevent burst pipes, interior leaks, and thousands of dollars in damage. What to do:

• Locate the indoor shutoff valve for each outdoor hose bib
• Turn the valve off
• Go outside and turn the spigot on to drain remaining water
• Disconnect and store hoses
• Install insulated hose bib covers

❄️ Protect Interior Plumbing From Freezing Pipes located near exterior walls, crawl spaces, garages, and cabinets are especially vulnerable during extreme cold. Helpful tips:

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate
• Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature day and night
• During extreme cold, allow faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving
• If traveling, never turn your heat completely off

❄️ Make Sure Your Heating System Is Ready Your heating system will be working overtime during a winter storm. Addressing small issues now can help avoid a no-heat emergency when temperatures drop. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s best to address it early. Before the storm:

• Replace or clean your HVAC filter
• Make sure vents and returns are not blocked
• Test your system to confirm it’s heating evenly
• Listen for unusual noises or short cycling

❄️ Clear Gutters and Improve Drainage Snow and ice need somewhere to go once temperatures fluctuate. Poor drainage can lead to ice dams, roof damage, and leaks.

Take a moment to:

• Remove leaves and debris from gutters
• Ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation

❄️ Prepare for Possible Power Outages Winter storms often bring high winds and heavy snowfall that can disrupt power. Be prepared by:

• Charging phones, battery packs, and essential devices
• Keeping flashlights and extra batteries easily accessible
• Knowing how to manually open your garage door
• Testing generators ahead of time, if you have one

❄️ Seal Drafts and Exterior Openings Cold air entering your home doesn’t just increase heating costs, it also raises the risk of frozen pipes. Quick checks:

• Seal drafty windows and doors with weatherstripping
• Close crawl space vents if recommended for your climate
• Make sure attic access points are properly sealed