Cold winter days can bring unexpected challenges for your home, but with the right preparation, you can avoid costly breakdowns and ensure a pleasant stay. January is an ideal time to inspect and maintain key parts of your home. Here are a few things you should check to ensure warmth, safety, and peace in your space.

1. Heating system check

Your heating system works at full capacity during winter, so it is important to ensure it operates smoothly.

• Service the furnaces, boilers, or radiators to prevent breakdowns.

• Check the thermostat – is it working properly and maintaining the desired temperature?

• Clean the air conditioning filters if you use them for heating.

2. Inspect windows and doors

Air leaks through windows and doors can significantly increase heating bills and reduce warmth in the home.

• Check the seals on windows and doors. If they are damaged, replace them.

• Use curtains or blinds as additional insulation.

3. Protect plumbing pipes

Frozen pipes can cause major damage in the home.

• Check pipes in cooler parts of the house, such as basements or attics.

• Add insulation to exposed pipes to prevent freezing.

• Lightly open faucets to keep water circulating and reduce the risk of freezing.