How to Prep Your Bellingham, WA Home for Winter: A Comprehensive Guide

I’ve lived in Bellingham since 1998, so I’ve seen how our winters have changed! As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it's that time of the year when Bellingham, WA transforms and people flock to Mount Baker.

While it’s nice to kick back and enjoy winter’s beauty, it's also essential to ensure that your home is prepared to weather the colder months comfortably and efficiently. After all, the seasons are changing, and some years we get a lot of snow and other years it seems like we might ski-by with no snow in the city.

In this blog post, I'll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to prep your Pacific Northwest home for winter, so you can enjoy a cozy and worry-free season.

Check and Service Your Heating System

Bellingham winters can be chilly, so it's crucial to ensure your heating system is in top condition. Before the cold sets in, schedule a professional maintenance check to clean filters, inspect the furnace, and ensure it's running efficiently. This step can help you avoid unexpected heating breakdowns during the coldest days of winter. I’ve worked with several reputable contractors in Whatcom and Skagit counties, and recommend checking out Andgar Mechanical in Ferndale or Gary’s Plumbing.

Consider a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can help you regulate your home's temperature efficiently. Set it to lower the temperature when you're away or sleeping and increase it when you're at home. This can lead to significant energy savings and lower heating bills.

Seal Drafts and Insulate

Drafts can significantly affect your home's energy efficiency during the winter. Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulking. Consider adding insulation to your attic and walls if needed to improve heat retention. I’ve worked with Pacific NW Eco Insulation and they do incredible work.

Clean Your Gutters

I love the golden amber and yellow leaves, but leaves and debris can accumulate in your gutters during the fall, potentially causing blockages. A clogged gutter system can lead to water damage in your home, especially when freezing temperatures result in ice dams. Clean your gutters to ensure proper water flow and prevent ice-related issues. Check out and get on the schedule with either Sparkle Clean or Whatcom Window and Gutter Cleaning!

Prep Your Fireplace or Wood-Burning Stove

If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, now is the time to inspect and clean it. Ensure that your chimney or flue is clear to allow for efficient venting of smoke. Stock up on firewood and kindling to keep the warmth and ambiance going during winter nights. I love how so many Bellingham homes have wood-burning stoves and fireplaces! It really shows the history of our town, but the upkeep is just as important as the history! For my recommendations I’d suggest Andgar Mechanical or Northwest Energy Systems

Service Your Water Heater

Hot water is a precious commodity during the winter once it’s gone! So make sure your water heater is working optimally. Consider flushing the tank to remove sediment and insulate the hot water pipes to prevent heat loss. Again, we are lucky in Bellingham to have incredible contractors providing these kind of services at reasonable rates and usually they provide free estimates so be sure to call around!

Winterize Your Outdoor Spaces

Protect your outdoor spaces from the harsh weather. This includes cleaning and storing patio furniture, draining hoses, putting protected covers on spigots, and shutting off exterior water sources, and covering or storing your grill. These steps will help prolong the life of your outdoor items. Don’t want to do it yourself? No problem! Give Dependable Yard Care or Puget Construction and Landscape a call.

Check Safety Devices

Ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Winter heating systems can increase the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, so it's crucial to have these alarms in place and in good working order. I’ve always had good luck finding them at a reasonable price at Hardware Sales in Bellingham.

Prepare for Power Outages

Bellingham occasionally experiences power outages during winter storms. To prepare, you could go big and invest in a backup generator or keep it simple and ensure you have essentials like flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and warm blankets at the ready.

Winterize Your Lawn and Garden

Protect your lawn and garden by cleaning up and storing garden tools, winterizing irrigation systems, and adding mulch to protect plants from freezing temperatures. This will help ensure that your outdoor spaces will be ready for spring when the snow finally melts.

Pet Safety: Create a Warm Retreat

Don't forget your furry family members during the winter season. Create a warm and comfortable retreat for your pets inside your home, complete with cozy bedding, water, and food dishes. Ensure that your pets have access to fresh water at all times and a warm, draft-free space to rest.

Pet Safety: Limit Outdoor Exposure

During particularly cold or snowy days, limit your pet's outdoor exposure. Frostbite and hypothermia can affect pets just like they do humans. Keep walks short and supervise your pet closely when they're outside. Plus, check your pet's paws after walks, as ice and salt can accumulate between their toes. These substances can be irritating or harmful to your pets (and floors!!), so it's essential to clean their paws and remove any ice.

Prepping your Bellingham, WA home for winter isn't just about keeping warm; it's about maintaining your property's value and ensuring a safe and cozy environment for you and your family. By following these steps, you can enjoy the winter season to the fullest, knowing that your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store. Stay warm, stay safe, and savor the magic of winter in Bellingham!