Last Updated on November 11, 2025 by The Insurance Pros

Top Tips to Winterize Your Michigan Home

Get your home ready for freezing temps, lake-effect snow, and long cold snaps. Use this Michigan-focused checklist to prevent frozen pipes, avoid ice dams, and lower winter energy bills.

Outside Your Home

• Clean gutters and downspouts. Clear leaves so meltwater flows off the roof. Add gutter guards if debris is common.
• Check the roof and flashes. Replace missing shingles and seal around chimneys, vents, and skylights to reduce leaks and ice dam risk.
• Trim trees and remove dead limbs. Heavy snow and wind can drop branches onto roofs, vehicles, or power lines.
• Shut off and drain outdoor spigots. Close interior shutoff valves, open exterior hose bibs, and disconnect hoses.
• Seal exterior gaps and cracks. Use exterior caulk or foam around utility penetrations, foundation gaps, and window frames.
• Mark your driveway edges. Snow stakes help plows and prevent lawn or landscape damage.

Inside Your Home

• Service your heating system. Schedule a furnace or boiler checkup. Replace filters every 1–3 months in winter.
• Test smoke and CO alarms. Press to test. Replace batteries if needed. Add CO alarms near sleeping areas and on each level.
• Improve attic insulation and air sealing. Aim for a well-sealed attic floor to keep warm air inside and reduce the formation of ice dams.
• Weather-strip doors and windows. Add door sweeps. Use rope caulk or clear film on drafty windows.
• Reverse ceiling fans. Run low and clockwise to push warm air down.
• Inspect your sump pump. Test the pump and verify discharge lines are clear in case of mid-winter thaws.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Insulate vulnerable runs. Add foam sleeves or heat tape to pipes in garages, crawl spaces, or exterior walls.
• Keep interior doors open. Let warm air reach sinks on exterior walls. Open vanity and cabinet doors during cold snaps.
• Set a safe thermostat. Keep heat at 65°F or higher. Lower temperatures increase freeze risk inside walls.
• Drip faucets on the coldest nights to keep water moving.
• Know the main shutoff. Tag it. If a pipe bursts, shut the water off quickly and call a plumber.

Save Energy Without Losing Comfort

• Use a smart or programmable thermostat. Set daytime and sleep schedules. Avoid large temperature swings.
• Seal attic hatches and recessed lights. Weather-strip and insulate to stop warm air leakage.
• Install insulated outlet gaskets on exterior walls to reduce drafts.
• Close fireplace dampers when not in use. Consider a chimney balloon to reduce heat loss.
• Add thermal curtains on the coldest windows. Open shades on sunny days. Close at night.

If You Are Away for the Holidays

• Do not turn the heat off. Set it to 65°F or higher.
• Shut off the main water and drain lines if you are gone for an extended period. Consider a smart leak detector.
• Ask a neighbor to check in. Have mail held or picked up. Use timers for lights.

Quick Emergency Kit

• Heavy-duty extension cords, space heater with tip-over protection
• Flashlights, batteries, and phone chargers
• Snow shovel, ice melt, and roof rake
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape for temporary leak control

Related Resources

• How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Michigan
• Is Michigan Homeowners Insurance Required?
• MI Ready: Winter Weather Preparedness

FAQs

What temperature should I keep my home at to prevent frozen pipes?

Keep your thermostat at 65°F or higher in winter. Colder settings increase freeze risk inside walls and crawl spaces.

How do I know if I have an ice dam?

Look for icicles along the eaves and water stains on ceilings or exterior walls. Use a roof rake after heavy snow and improve attic air sealing and insulation.

Should I shut off water if I leave for a week?

Yes, if possible. Shut off the main, drain lines if you will be away for an extended period, and ask a neighbor to check in.