Winter Is Coming: How to Get Your Home Ready for Snow Season in Central Oregon

As the first snow dusts the Cascades and temperatures dip across Central Oregon, it’s time to prepare your home for the winter ahead. From Bend to Sunriver, Redmond to Sisters, cold weather brings both beauty and challenges. Taking a few proactive steps now can help you protect your investment, keep energy bills in check, and ensure your home stays warm and worry-free all season long.

1. Inspect and Improve Insulation

A well-insulated home is key to comfort (and lower heating costs). Check your attic, crawl spaces, and around windows and doors for drafts or thin insulation. Adding weather stripping or caulking gaps can make a noticeable difference. For older homes, consider scheduling a professional energy audit — local companies in Bend can identify exactly where heat may be escaping.

Pro tip: Don’t forget garage doors and basements — two of the most common culprits for heat loss.

2. Service Your Heating System

Before the first deep freeze, have your furnace or heat pump inspected by a licensed HVAC technician. Replace filters, clean ducts, and test thermostats to make sure everything’s running efficiently. If your home has a gas fireplace or wood-burning stove, schedule a chimney sweep and inspection.

Reliable heat isn’t just about comfort — it’s also about safety. A simple pre-season tune-up can prevent costly mid-winter breakdowns.

3. Protect Pipes from Freezing

Central Oregon’s cold snaps can be brutal on plumbing. Wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas with foam insulation and disconnect outdoor hoses. If you plan to be away, keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.

For second homes or vacation rentals, consider a smart thermostat with remote monitoring — a small investment that can prevent big headaches.

4. Prepare for Snow and Ice

Keep your snow shovels, ice melt, and roof rakes handy before the first storm hits. Clear debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams that can cause roof leaks.

If your home has a long driveway or private road, schedule plowing services early — demand spikes once the snow starts falling. For added safety, check that exterior lighting is working properly to illuminate icy walkways and steps.

5. Seal Windows and Doors

Even luxury homes can lose warmth through small gaps. Inspect weather stripping and replace any that’s brittle or damaged. Double-pane windows are ideal for keeping heat in and cold out; if your windows are older, consider adding thermal curtains or temporary film insulation to improve efficiency.

6. Check Roof and Gutters

Snow and wind can take a toll on your roof. Have a professional inspect for loose shingles, flashing, or potential leaks before heavy snow arrives. Clean gutters thoroughly so melting snow can drain properly and not refreeze near your foundation.

7. Create a Cozy Interior

Once the essentials are handled, embrace the cozy side of winter living! Layer warm throws, soft lighting, and natural textures to create a welcoming ambiance. Whether you’re hosting friends after a day on Mt. Bachelor or relaxing fireside, your home will feel like a retreat from the cold.

Final Thoughts

Winter in Central Oregon is breathtaking — from powder-covered peaks to crackling fires and crisp morning air. With the right preparation, your home can be just as resilient as it is beautiful.

Thinking about buying or selling this season? Let’s make sure your next home is perfectly suited for life in the high desert — warm, efficient, and ready for adventure.

📩 Contact me today to discuss your real estate goals before the snow falls!