Last Updated on June 1, 2026 by iMichigan Insurance Editorial Team

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.

Reminder: Most winter water losses come from frozen pipes and ice dams. A one-hour walkthrough now can prevent costly damage later.

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

Want a coverage check before winter? We can review your policy and help you prevent common cold-weather losses.

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Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Top Tips to Winterize Your Michigan Home