December: Winter Protection & Year-End Review
Winter Protection & Year-End Review
This Month's Tasks
Monitor for ice dams
IntermediateAfter snow accumulation, watch for icicles forming along eaves. Use a roof rake to remove snow from the lower 4 feet of the roof before it refreezes and backs up under shingles.
Check heating efficiency
IntermediateVerify your thermostat program is optimized for winter schedules. Install a smart thermostat to reduce heating costs while maintaining comfort.
Inspect holiday lighting safety
BeginnerUse only outdoor-rated extension cords and timers. Check for frayed cords, broken sockets, and overloaded circuits before putting up lights.
Prevent pipe freezes during cold snaps
IntermediateKnow your freeze protocol: which faucets to drip, which cabinet doors to open, and where your main shutoff is. A burst pipe causes $5,000–$50,000 in damage.
Annual home maintenance review
IntermediateDocument what was done this year, what was deferred, and what needs attention in the next 12 months. A written maintenance log increases home value and informs buyer disclosures.
Budget for next year's projects
IntermediateReview contractor quotes and deferred maintenance items. Build a realistic budget for the coming year so major projects don't become emergencies.
This Month's Maintenance Kit
Everything you might need for your december tasks.
Affiliate disclosure: Hello Home Reminders may earn a small commission from purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep our guides free and up to date.
Roof rake
Look for a telescoping model with a wheeled head that won't scratch shingles. A 16–21 foot reach handles most NJ rooflines from the ground.
Pipe insulation foam
Buy foam tubes sized to your pipe diameter (½" and ¾" cover most residential supply lines). Self-sealing styles are faster to install in tight spaces.
Outdoor timer for lights
A mechanical or smart outlet timer automatically shuts off holiday lights at a set time, reducing fire risk from overnight operation. Look for weatherproof outdoor ratings.
Smart thermostat
Nest, Ecobee, and Honeywell T6 Pro are the top three. Before buying, confirm compatibility with your HVAC system—multi-stage heat pumps need specific models. Check if your furnace has a C-wire (common wire) for power.
Outdoor extension cord (heavy duty)
Use only cords rated for outdoor use (marked "W-A" or "W" on the jacket). Match the cord's amperage rating to the combined load of all lights on the circuit.
Heat tape / heat cable
Self-regulating heat cable is safer than constant-wattage tape—it increases heat output only when temperature drops. Essential for pipes in unheated spaces.
Calcium chloride ice melt
Calcium chloride works at lower temperatures than rock salt and is safer for concrete and vegetation. Buy in a resealable bag.
GFCI adapter
A GFCI outlet adapter converts a standard outdoor outlet to GFCI protection without rewiring. Required for any outdoor electrical connection within reach of standing water.
Headlamp
Useful for attic inspection in low-light conditions. Look for 200+ lumens with a red-light mode to preserve night vision.
Faucet cover (outdoor)
Foam faucet covers add insulation to exterior hose bibs. Use even on frost-free bibs as a backup layer in extreme cold.
Pipe wrap tape
Self-fusing silicone tape creates a watertight, insulating wrap for odd-shaped fittings and elbows where foam tubes don't fit cleanly.
Stay on top of home maintenance
Get personalized reminders sent to your inbox before it's too late. Free for homeowners, no credit card required.
Get My Free Reminders