Winters in the Fraser Valley can be unpredictable , heavy rain, overnight freezes, and the occasional snowfall.
Whether you live in Abbotsford, Langley, Mission, Chilliwack, or Surrey, preparing your home before winter hits is the best way to protect your investment, avoid costly repairs, and keep your home comfortable all season long.
Here’s a simple winter home maintenance guide, along with why each step is so important.
1. Service Your Heating System
Why It Matters:
Your furnace or heat pump works harder in winter. A professional tune-up helps it run efficiently, reduces energy consumption, and prevents breakdowns during cold snaps — which have become increasingly common in the Fraser Valley.
What to Do:
- Schedule annual furnace/boiler servicing
- Replace HVAC filters every 1–3 months
- Clear debris around heat pump units
- Test (or upgrade) your thermostat
2. Protect Your Plumbing From Freezing
Why It Matters:
Cold overnight temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to expensive water damage. This is one of the most common winter claims in the Fraser Valley.
What to Do:
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Disconnect garden hoses
- Shut off outdoor faucets
- Keep heat on low when travelling
- Let taps drip during severe cold spells
3. Clean Gutters & Downspouts
Why It Matters:
Heavy Valley rainfall + fallen leaves = clogged gutters. When gutters overflow, water can back up under shingles, leak into your home, and damage foundations.
What to Do:
- Clear gutters and downspouts
- Ensure proper drainage away from the home
- Consider gutter guards for tree-heavy areas
4. Inspect Your Roof
Why It Matters:
Storms, wind, and moisture can quickly turn a small issue into a major leak. Roof damage is far easier (and cheaper) to fix before winter hits.
What to Do:
- Check for missing or loose shingles
- Inspect flashing and skylights
- Remove moss
- Look for interior water stains
5. Seal Drafts & Improve Insulation
Why It Matters:
Drafts force your heating system to work harder, raising energy bills. Sealing gaps and boosting insulation improves comfort and reduces winter heating costs.
What to Do:
- Seal windows, doors, and outlets
- Replace worn weatherstripping
- Add attic or crawlspace insulation
- Close fireplace dampers when not in use
6. Prepare Outdoor Areas
Why It Matters:
Rain, freeze-thaw cycles, and slippery surfaces can become safety hazards. Prepping your outdoor spaces reduces risk and prevents damage during storms.
What to Do:
- Trim trees and branches
- Check drainage around the home
- Store or cover patio furniture
- Keep ice melt, sand, or grit on hand
7. Prepare for Power Outages
Why It Matters:
Winter storms are common in the Fraser Valley — especially in rural or higher-elevation areas like Sumas Mountain, Glen Mountain, Promontory, and Hatzic — and outages can last hours.
What to Do:
- Keep flashlights and batteries accessible
- Charge power banks
- Have a small emergency kit on hand
- Consider a backup heat source (safe for indoor use)
8. Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Why It Matters:
With increased heating and fireplace use, winter is the season with the highest safety risks. Properly functioning detectors save lives.
What to Do:
- Test detectors monthly
- Replace batteries regularly
- Install CO detectors for any gas appliances
9. Maintain Your Fireplace or Chimney
Why It Matters:
Dirty chimneys, blocked vents, and creosote buildup are fire hazards. Keeping your fireplace clean improves safety and heating performance.
What to Do:
- Schedule a chimney or gas fireplace inspection
- Remove creosote buildup (wood-burning units)
- Check vents and pilot lights
10. Review Your Home Insurance Coverage
Why It Matters:
Winter damage — like frozen pipes, ice backup, or water intrusion — can be costly. Reviewing your policy ensures you understand what’s covered and where gaps may exist.
What to Do:
- Confirm water damage and sewer backup coverage
- Verify deductible amounts
- Consider overland flood insurance if in a low-lying area