When temperatures fall below freezing, water inside exposed pipes can freeze and expand. As a result, pipes may crack or burst, leading to water damage.

Before a cold night, disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets where appropriate. Then, install insulated faucet covers and protect exposed pipes with suitable insulation.

Also, locate your home’s main water shutoff valve. Knowing where it is can help you act quickly if a pipe breaks.

Insurance reminder: Some homeowners policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe. However, maintenance requirements and exclusions may apply.

Your heater may sit unused for months during the warmer seasons. Therefore, test it before the first truly cold night.

Replace dirty air filters and schedule professional maintenance when needed. In addition, make sure vents remain clear and the thermostat works properly.

If your home uses gas heating equipment, install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms according to manufacturer instructions. Never use an outdoor grill or gas oven to heat your home.

For more guidance, review the

Ready.gov winter weather safety recommendations
.

Winter storms can bring rain, wind, and occasionally snow to the El Paso area. Consequently, existing roof problems may become more noticeable during bad weather.

From the ground, look for visible damage or loose materials. Additionally, clear leaves and debris from gutters when it is safe to do so.

Make sure water drains away from your foundation. If you notice roof damage, contact a qualified professional rather than climbing onto a slippery roof.

Insurance reminder: Homeowners insurance may cover certain sudden storm-related damage. However, gradual deterioration and ordinary wear and tear are generally excluded.

Small gaps around doors and windows allow warm air to escape. Over time, that can make your heating system work harder.

Start by checking weatherstripping and door sweeps. Next, use appropriate caulk around gaps that need sealing.

During sunny winter afternoons, opening curtains can also bring natural warmth into your home. At night, close them to help reduce heat loss.

Although routine sealing is usually a maintenance expense, it can improve comfort and reduce exposure to cold drafts.

Portable heaters can warm a chilly room. However, they can also create fire hazards when used incorrectly.

Keep space heaters at least three feet away from curtains, furniture, bedding, and other combustible materials. Place them on a stable surface and plug them directly into a wall outlet.

Additionally, turn portable heaters off before sleeping or leaving the room. If you use a fireplace, arrange appropriate inspection and cleaning.

Most importantly, check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms regularly. A few minutes of preparation can make a meaningful difference.

While severe winter weather is not an everyday occurrence in El Paso, occasional storms can disrupt travel and electricity.

Prepare flashlights, spare batteries, drinking water, medications, and basic supplies. Also, charge phones before a forecasted storm.

If you own a portable generator, operate it outdoors and well away from windows, doors, and vents. Never run one inside a garage, even with the door open.

Before temperatures drop, consider how your household will stay warm during an extended outage. This is especially important for children, older adults, and pets.

A useful part of winter home maintenance El Paso homeowners sometimes overlook is reviewing their insurance policy.

Check your dwelling coverage, deductible, and any special limitations. Then, ask your agent how the policy handles frozen pipes, sudden water damage, wind, and other winter-related losses.

Remember that insurance is designed for covered losses, not ordinary home upkeep. Therefore, routine repairs and preventive maintenance remain the homeowner’s responsibility.

For more information about homeowners policy types, read our

HO-3, HO-5, and HO-7 insurance comparison
.