How to Winterize a House [Complete Checklist]

Cold air can seep into our homes in a variety of ways - with the long Chicago winter ahead of us, it's time to winterize your home before it gets colder!
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Written by 
Dumitru Nicolaescu
Updated:
January 8, 2025

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Cost of Winterizing a House

Cost of Winterizing a House
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  1. Insulation:
    • Attic insulation:
      • Cost: $1,500 to $3,500
      • Potential Energy Savings: Up to 15% on heating and cooling costs
      • Annual Savings: $200-$300 for an average home
      • Payback Period: 5-7 years
    • Wall insulation:
      • Cost: $1,000 to $4,000
      • Potential Energy Savings: Up to 12% on heating and cooling costs
      • Annual Savings: $160-$240 for an average home
      • Payback Period: 6-8 years
    • Basement Insulation:
      • Cost: $1,500 to $2,500
      • Potential Energy Savings: Up to 11% on heating costs
      • Annual Savings: $150-$200 for an average home
      • Payback Period: 7-10 years
  2. Weatherstripping:
    • DIY kits: $20 to $100
    • Professional installation: $200 to $600
    • Potential Energy Savings: Up to 10% on heating costs
    • Annual Savings: $130-$180 for an average home
    • Payback Period: 1-3 years
  3. HVAC System Service:
    • Annual tune-up: $80 to $200
    • Potential Energy Savings: Up to 15% on heating and cooling costs
    • Annual Savings: $200-$300 for an average home
    • Payback Period: Less than 1 year
  4. Chimney Cleaning and Inspection:
    • Cost: $150 to $350
    • While this doesn't directly save energy, it ensures safety and efficiency of your heating system
  5. Gutter Cleaning:
  6. Pipe Insulation:
    • DIY materials: $50 to $200
    • Professional installation: $200 to $1,000
    • Potential Energy Savings: Up to 3% on water heating costs
    • Annual Savings: $40-$60 for an average home
    • Payback Period: 2-5 years
  7. Window Treatments:
    • Plastic window film: $20 to $100
      • Potential Energy Savings: Up to 14% on heating costs
      • Annual Savings: $180-$240 for an average home
      • Payback Period: Less than 1 year
    • Storm windows: $200 to $800 per window
      • Potential Energy Savings: Up to 20% on heating and cooling costs
      • Annual Savings: $260-$340 for an average home
      • Payback Period: 3-5 years
  8. Roof Inspection and Repair:
    • Inspection: $100 to $300
    • Minor repairs: $150 to $1,500
    • While this doesn't directly save energy, it prevents leaks that can compromise insulation and overall home efficiency
  9. Professional Energy Audit:
    • Cost: $200 to $700
    • This can identify areas for improvement, potentially leading to 5-30% energy savings depending on implemented recommendations

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  1. Prioritize tasks based on your home's specific needs and your budget.
  2. Consider DIY options for simpler tasks like weatherstripping or installing window film.
  3. Look for energy efficiency rebates or tax credits that may offset some costs.
  4. Spread out more expensive upgrades over several years if necessary.

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When To Winterize

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Winterize Home Checklist

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Exterior Preparation

Clean the gutters

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Inspect the roof and attic

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Check the chimney

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Clear the yard

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Insulation and Sealing

Winterize windows and doors

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Check for air gaps and seal them

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Insulate your garage door

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Check your attic insulation

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Plumbing Protection

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Protect the pipes

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Disconnect hoses and sprinkler systems

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Winterize outside faucets

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Drain and shut off water sources

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HVAC and Heating System Maintenance

Service the HVAC system

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Winterize air conditioning units

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Replace your HVAC filters

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Adjust your thermostat

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Reverse your ceiling fans

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Energy Efficiency Measures

Install window treatments

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Open the curtains of south-facing windows

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Turn down the thermostat

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Seal your fireplace

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Lower your water heater temperature

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Safety and Comfort

Ensure snow removal tools are accessible

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Stock up on the right tools and materials

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Inspect and clean your dryer vents

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Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

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Lay down rugs

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Purchase winter storm essentials

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Conclusion

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