Throughout Canada, the first real cold snap can arrive quickly. One week you’re raking leaves in a light jacket, and the next you’re scraping frost off the windshield. A little preparation now can help keep your home warm and comfortable while preventing costly problems later in the season.

Fortunately, most cold-weather prep is simple, affordable and can be tackled over a weekend or two. Here’s where to start.

How do I keep my pipes from freezing?

Frozen pipes can cause significant damage, but a few simple steps can help reduce the risk.

Start outside. Disconnect and drain garden hoses, then store them in a shed or garage. If your home has an interior shut-off valve for outdoor faucets, close it and open the outdoor tap to drain any remaining water. Sprinkler and irrigation systems should also be drained or blown out before the ground freezes.

Inside, check pipes that run through unheated or poorly insulated areas, such as crawl spaces, garages, attics and exterior walls. Adding foam pipe insulation is an inexpensive project that can usually be completed in minutes.

It’s also a good time to locate your main water shut-off valve and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly can help limit the damage.

When should I get my furnace serviced?

Ideally, before you need it. Booking an annual furnace inspection in early fall can help ensure your heating system is ready before temperatures drop and technicians get busier.

Between professional visits, check your furnace filter regularly and replace it as recommended. A clean filter helps your system operate efficiently and can improve indoor air quality. How often it needs replacing will depend on the type of filter and your household.

If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, this is also a good time to set your winter schedule. Lowering the temperature slightly overnight or while you’re away can help manage heating costs without sacrificing comfort.

How can I stop drafts and heat loss?

Small gaps around windows and doors can allow warm air to escape and cold air to creep in. On a windy day, check around window frames, door edges and electrical outlets on exterior walls for noticeable drafts.

Replace worn weatherstripping on doors and windows, use caulking to seal gaps around frames, and consider adding door sweeps to exterior doors.

One more easy trick: if you have ceiling fans, switch them to run clockwise at a low speed during the colder months. This helps circulate warm air that naturally rises toward the ceiling back into the room.

What should I check outside before winter?

A quick walk around your property can help you catch small maintenance needs before snow and ice make them harder to address.

Once most of the leaves have fallen, clean out gutters and downspouts to help water drain properly. Make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation.

Check your roof for visible signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, and make sure exterior vents, including dryer and furnace vents, are clear of debris. Trim branches that hang over your roof or near power lines, as heavy snow and ice can cause them to break.

If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, consider scheduling a chimney inspection and cleaning before lighting your first fire of the season.

Are my safety devices ready for heating season?

As heating season begins, test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries as needed. Carbon monoxide alarms are particularly important in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces or attached garages.

Check the expiry date on each device as well, since smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have a limited lifespan. While you’re at it, make sure your fire extinguisher is charged, accessible and ready to use.

What should I have on hand for winter storms?

Winter weather can bring power outages and travel disruptions, so having a basic emergency kit ready can make a big difference. The Government of Canada recommends being prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.

Consider keeping water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered or crank radio, a first aid kit and necessary medications on hand.

Before the snow arrives, check that your shovels, ice melt and snow blower are ready to go. If you use a snow blower, taking care of any maintenance now can save you some frustration when the first big snowfall hits.

Don’t forget the car

While you’re getting your home ready, give your vehicle some attention too. Book your winter tire changeover early, as appointments can fill up quickly once temperatures begin to drop. In Quebec, winter tires are mandatory from Dec. 1 to March 15.

Keep an ice scraper, snow brush and small emergency kit in your vehicle throughout the season.

A little preparation goes a long way

Preparing for the first cold snap doesn’t have to be a major project. Tackling a few tasks at a time throughout the fall can help keep your home warm, efficient and protected all winter long.

If you’re planning to buy or sell this season, keeping up with seasonal maintenance can help ensure your home is ready for whatever winter brings.