The leaves have mostly fallen, the clocks have changed, and that chill in the air means one thing — winter is coming to Maine. Whether you’re counting down the days until the first big snowfall or planning to hibernate until spring, one thing’s for sure: It’s time to get prepped for winter.
Here at TruChoice, we know that staying safe and comfortable through a Maine winter isn’t just about warm blankets and hot cocoa — it’s about preparation. Taking a little time now to winterize your home, car, and finances can save you a lot of money (and stress) later.
We’ve gathered some practical tips to help you button up your home, get your car ready for snow, and make sure your family is prepared for whatever the season brings.
Make sure your home is winter ready
- Start outside: Walk around and check for branches overhanging your roof or driveway and have them cut back as needed. If you see low hanging branches touching or near power lines near your house, reach out to CMP to report it safely.
- Clean those gutters: It’s not anyone’s favorite chore, but clogged gutters can cause leaks and costly damage if ice builds up. A little effort now can save you from expensive repairs later.
- Protect your pipes and faucets: Shut off outdoor water lines at the indoor valve (not just the spigot) to prevent freezing and bursting.
- Prepare your winter tools: Make sure your snow shovel, roof rake and sand & salt are in good shape and easy to access. While you’re at it, it’s time to store hoses, garden tools, and patio furniture.
- Check your roof and siding: Look for loose shingles, siding and gaps around windows and doors — seal up cracks before the cold and moisture set in.
Safety First!
- Clean your vents and filters: Vacuum your dryer vent to prevent lint buildup and reduce fire risk. Replace furnace and air filters, and clean humidifiers and dehumidifiers. Check to make sure any sump pumps are in working condition.
- Swap batteries in alarms: Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every fall — don’t wait for the “low battery” chirp! If your thermostat uses batteries, change those, too.
- Service your heating system: Annual maintenance on your boiler, water heater, or HVAC system costs far less than midwinter repairs. If you use a chimney, have it inspected and cleaned to prevent dangerous creosote buildup.
- Be ready for emergencies: Check that fire extinguishers are up to date and that everyone in your home knows how to use them. Test your generator and have extra fuel ready — but remember, never run a generator indoors.
Batten down the hatches
- Seal up drafts: Drafty windows and doors can send your heating bills soaring. Pick up a low-cost window sealing kit at a local hardware store or check out WindowDressers.org, a Maine nonprofit that helps residents build affordable window inserts to keep the heat in and the wind out. If you’ve got a draft coming in from exterior or basement doors, a draft stopper is a cheap, easy way to keep the cold outside where it belongs – plus, if you’re feeling crafty, they’re easy to make!
- Insulate exposed pipes: Pipes in unheated spaces like basements or garages should be wrapped to prevent freezing and bursting — an inexpensive fix that can prevent costly damage.
- Check out local energy rebates: If you’re planning bigger upgrades, visit EfficiencyMaine.com for energy-saving tips and possible rebates on heating systems, insulation, and more.
- Stay fueled: Make sure your oil, propane, wood, or pellets are topped off for the start of the season. If you’re struggling with heating costs, check MaineHousing’s Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to see if you qualify for help.
Be Prepared — On the Road and at Home
- Winterize your car: Check your tires — bald or worn treads are dangerous on icy roads. Consider all-weather or snow tires for safer driving. Also, make sure fluids are topped off and windshield wipers are in good shape.
- Keep an emergency car kit:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Collapsible shovel
- Ice scraper and brush
- Blanket, hat, and gloves
- Jumper cables
- Phone charger
- Sand, salt, or kitty litter for traction
- And a home emergency kit:
- First aid kit (include extra prescription meds)
- Candles, matches, flashlights, and extra batteries
- Battery, solar, or crank radio (for NOAA weather updates)
- Nonperishable food and bottled water
- Warm blankets, hats, and mittens
- Supplies for kids, including diapers, formula and extra clothing.
- Extra food and water or medication for indoor pets, as well as plan for keeping outdoor animals fed and safe.
For additional tips on preparing for emergencies, here’s some helpful links:
