Winter or even winter storms in the Midwest can be an intimidating thing to handle, but with the right preparations, your home can remain comfortable and cozy during even the harshest Midwest winter storms and conditions. Whether you’re a long-time Midwesterner or new to this part of the country, there are several steps you should consider preparing so that your home can stand the Midwest winter. From energy-efficiency tips to preventative maintenance, we have winter preparedness tips for you!

Midwest weather and winter storms in the Midwest aren’t for the weak. During winter months, snowstorms bring bitter cold temperatures and icy conditions that can pose a threat to your home. Make sure that you know how to keep your home warm and safe during this time where average snowfalls in states like Illinois and Ohio range from 11.2 to 20 inches per winter. In the same way, without proper winter preparedness tips in place, factors like wind can put your home at risk for damage with cities like Chicago seeing wind speeds in the winter average out to 14.4 mph. For more Midwest weather insight, check out our chart below on the average winter weather temperatures across the Midwest:

But please don’t fear! Winter doesn’t have to be dreaded—it can be enjoyed if you make sure that you are properly prepared! Keep reading for our best tips on how to prep your house for cold weather! Or save our winter preparedness checklist below to ensure you have anything you need to enjoy the coziest of all winters:

Be sure to add this to your winter preparedness checklist! The Midwest is no stranger to winter storms, and it pays to be prepared. Cleaning out your gutters and checking for any damage to your roof can help you avoid major repairs down the line. By taking the time to prepare now, you’ll be ready for whatever Midwest winter storms throw your way. Plus, regular cleaning of your gutters can help prevent ice buildup and potentially causing costly damage. Taking some time before the Midwest winter season hits to do a little home maintenance will help keep your house protected all winter long.

As you get ready to prep your house for the cold weather, be sure to search for air leaks around doors and windows before it gets too cold. If you have any gaps or cracks, it’s important to seal them in order to help protect your home from the cold winds and wet weather of winter storms. You can seal your gaps in both your windows and doors with caulk or weather strips. Additionally, keep an eye out for any drafts that could be caused by poor insulation around window frames or doorframes. Making sure your windows and doors are sealed off properly can save you money on energy bills while also keeping your family warm and safe during a Midwest winter storm.

One of the biggest challenges a new Midwesterner might face when experiencing their first Midwest winter storm is the issue of frozen pipes. This happens when your pipes are exposed to below freezing temperatures without insulation. This can cause your pipes to burst as well if left unthawed. The most important way to prepare your pipes for winter is to insulate them. This could involve installing pipe insulation or wrapping foam around exposed pipes in areas like basements and attics. Additionally, you should also make sure to disconnect any hoses attached to outside faucets and shut off the water supply for outdoor valves.

Should I Turn off my Water if my Pipes are Frozen?

If you suspect that your pipes are frozen, it is best to turn off the water before attempting to thaw them. To do this, locate and shut off the main valve of your home’s water supply. This will help prevent any serious damage from occurring if the pipes burst due to extreme temperatures or due to pressure buildup caused by ice. If you cannot find or access the main valve, contact a professional plumber for assistance.

Even in the winter, emergencies and accidents can happen. That’s why it’s important to prepare yourself for whatever a Midwest winter has to offer. In your home emergency kit, make sure to include items like flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, food, water, blankets, extra warm clothing, or even a power generator to keep yourself prepared. It’s also important to create an evacuation plan in case of emergency and stock up on non-perishable food.

If you choose to travel in the winter, it’s important to pack a safety kit in your car in case you get stranded. Check out our Midwest winter must-haves if you find yourself stuck on the icy roads in the winter:

No one wants to get stuck in the cold! One of the most important steps you can take to prepare for winter in the Midwest is to check your heating system and make sure it is running efficiently. Be sure to know which heating system you use in your home and how to repair it if things go south. Doing so will ensure you don’t get caught off guard when icy winds start blowing and temperatures dip below freezing.

Last, and certainly not least, make sure you’ve chosen a gas provider to heat your home when the winter gets going! The worst thing you can do is cozy up into your new or existing Midwestern home and realize your gas isn’t turned on. Our Earth-Friendly Gas plan is a natural gas option that allows you to enjoy all the benefits of your energy service while helping to create ecological balance in the world. This is done by carbon offsetting: making up for our emissions here by reducing emissions elsewhere. So, simply by heating your home, you can be helping the planet.

The harsh winter conditions of the Midwest can be managed effectively with the right preparations. By taking the necessary steps to winterize your home, you can ensure a comfortable and secure living environment throughout the season!

Santanna Energy Services is a supplier of renewable energy solutions in the United States, providing services to Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio. We provide a wide range of energy services and products to meet the needs of both residential and small business customers. Our mission is to provide innovative and cost-effective energy solutions that will help our customers achieve their energy goals. With over 35 years of experience, we are committed to creating life-long relationships by providing quality service to customers, communities, and employees.