Winter Home Maintenance Checklist for Knoxville Homeowners
Winter in East Tennessee can be unpredictable—freezing temperatures one week, mild sunshine the next. A little preparation now can help homeowners avoid costly repairs and protect one of their biggest investments: their home.
Whether you plan to stay put or may consider selling in the future, this winter home maintenance checklist is designed to help Knoxville and East Tennessee homeowners keep their homes safe, efficient, and comfortable during the colder months.
Why Winter Home Maintenance Matters
Cold snaps, heavy rain, and fluctuating temperatures can put extra stress on your home. Pipes can freeze, heating systems work overtime, and small issues can quickly turn into expensive repairs if left unchecked.
The good news? Most winter maintenance tasks are quick, affordable, and easy to stay ahead of.
Winter Home Maintenance Checklist
Here are some must-do items every homeowner should check this winter:
❄️ Heating & Air
- Replace HVAC filters to improve efficiency and indoor air quality
- Schedule a professional HVAC inspection if it hasn’t been serviced recently
- Make sure all vents are open and unobstructed
❄️ Plumbing & Pipes
- Disconnect and store outdoor hoses
- Turn off exterior water sources if possible
- Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and basements
- Know where your main water shutoff valve is located
❄️ Roof, Gutters & Exterior
- Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup
- Check siding, trim, and caulking for cracks or gaps
- Trim tree branches away from the roof
❄️ Windows, Doors & Insulation
- Seal drafts around windows and doors
- Check attic insulation to help keep heating costs down
- Reverse ceiling fans to rotate clockwise to circulate warm air
❄️ Safety First
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
- Check fire extinguishers
- If you use a fireplace, have the chimney inspected and cleaned
When to Call a Professional
Some winter maintenance items are best left to the pros. Consider calling a licensed professional for:
- HVAC tune-ups
- Roof inspections
- Chimney cleaning
- Plumbing concerns or frozen pipe issues
If you ever need trusted local vendor recommendations, I’m happy to share my go-to list.
Thinking About Selling Your Home This Year?
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that winter can actually be a great time to sell. With fewer homes on the market, sellers often face less competition, and buyers who are active tend to be serious and motivated.
Taking care of small maintenance items now can also make your home more appealing—and potentially more valuable—when it’s time to sell.
Need Help or Have Questions?
Whether you’re looking for reliable local vendors, curious about your home’s current value, or thinking about making a move in 2025, I’m always happy to help.
Protect your home, stay warm, and enjoy the winter season! ☕🏡
Angie Cody
Knoxville & East Tennessee Real Estate
My Expertise, Your Profit