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Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

Published on Jan 1, 2026 • By Joe Yerdon • Updated: May 15, 2026

Quick Answer

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As the temperatures drop in Athens, it's a good idea to give your home a little attention to avoid expensive repairs later. Here is our checklist for January.

1. Protect Your Pipes

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Frozen pipes are the most common cause of winter water damage. When the forecast calls for freezing weather:

2. Check Your Heating System

Before the coldest nights, change your HVAC filters. A dirty filter makes your system work harder, which raises your bill and could cause it to break down.

3. Smart Home Winterization

If you have a smart thermostat (like Nest or Ecobee), don't set 'Eco Mode' too low. I'd keep the house at least 60°F even when you're away to protect pipes and floors.

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—especially when it comes to water damage."

4. Inspect the Roof

From the ground (use binoculars!), look for loose or missing shingles. Winter winds can turn a small flap into a big leak.

J

Joe Yerdon

Reviewed by Licensed Technician

Founder and Lead Technician at Smart Home Repair with over 15 years of experience in home improvement, electrical services, and smart home automation in Athens, GA.

Certifications: EPA Certified, Smart Home Installer, Fully Licensed & Insured in GA

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