Chicago winters are tough on homes. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and wind put stress on roofs, plumbing, heating systems, and foundations. A proactive winter home maintenance checklist for Chicago homeowners helps prevent expensive emergency repairs and protects long-term property value.

According to the City of Chicago Office of Emergency Management, frozen pipes, heating failures, and carbon monoxide exposure are among the most common winter-related home issues in the region. Taking preventative steps early in the season can significantly reduce risk.

City of Chicago winter preparedness resource
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/oem/supp_info/alertready/winter_preparedness-duringwinterstormandextremecold.html

Exterior Winter Home Maintenance Checklist Chicago Homeowners Should Follow

Roof, gutters, and drainage

Inspect your roof for missing shingles or visible damage before heavy snow accumulates. Ice dams often form when warm air escapes through the roof and refreezes at the eaves.

Clear gutters and downspouts so melting snow can drain away from your home. Blocked gutters increase the risk of ice dams and foundation leaks.

If you have a flat roof, common in Chicago homes, ensure drains are clear and snow loads are monitored.

Windows, doors, and insulation

Seal drafts around windows and exterior doors with weather stripping or caulk. Older Chicago homes often lose significant heat through gaps.

Install or inspect storm windows if applicable. Heavy curtains or thermal window coverings can also improve energy efficiency.

Energy efficiency guidance
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherize

Outdoor plumbing and exterior systems

Disconnect and drain garden hoses. Shut off exterior water supply valves if possible. Cover outdoor spigots to prevent freezing.

If your home has irrigation systems, ensure they are fully winterized to avoid pipe damage.

Interior Winter Home Maintenance Checklist Chicago Residents Need

Heating and HVAC systems

Schedule a furnace inspection and replace filters regularly. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends changing furnace filters every one to three months during heating season.

Confirm your thermostat functions properly and consider a programmable thermostat to manage energy use.

Heating safety resource
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/home-heating-systems

Pipes and plumbing protection

Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. During extreme cold, allow faucets to drip slightly to reduce freezing risk.

Know where your main water shut-off valve is located in case of emergency.

Frozen pipe prevention guide
https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

Safety systems and emergency readiness

Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide incidents rise in winter due to increased heater use.

Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, blankets, water, and backup phone chargers.

Carbon monoxide safety
https://www.cdc.gov/carbonmonoxide/prevention

Suburban Considerations for North Shore, Northwest, and Western Suburbs

Homes in the North Shore, Northwest suburbs, and Western suburbs often have larger yards, detached garages, and longer driveways. Stock ice melt, ensure snow blowers are serviced, and check garage door seals.

If you commute by car, inspect vehicles and keep walkways well lit and cleared to prevent slips.