December Home Maintenance 2025
December is the month when we shift our focus indoors, creating warmth and comfort while keeping an eye on the little things that help our homes run smoothly through the coldest stretch of winter. These small tasks may not feel urgent, but they truly make a difference once we settle in for the season.
With about eight inches of snow already blanketing NW Indiana, most outdoor maintenance has officially moved to the “wait until spring” category.
Shut off Outdoor Spigots & Remove Hoses
Confirm outdoor spigots are shut off and hoses are disconnectedIf this slipped your mind before the freeze, now is the time to double check. Even if the snow has arrived, you can still turn off the water line inside the house and confirm the exterior valve is closed. Disconnecting hoses prevents trapped water from freezing and expanding, which protects your pipes from a mid-winter surprise.
Schedule or complete a fireplace cleaning and inspection
A cozy fire is one of the best parts of winter... as long as your system is safe. Chimneys accumulate soot and creosote, which can become a fire hazard if not cleaned. Whether you burn daily or just occasionally, December is the perfect month to make sure everything is functioning properly. A clean fireplace not only works better but also makes your whole home smell warmer and more inviting.
Take Care of Your REAL Tree
Water your real Christmas tree regularlyIf you have a live tree in the house, it can dry out more quickly than most people expect. A well-hydrated tree looks fuller, stays fragrant longer, and most importantly reduces the risk of becoming a fire hazard near lights or heating vents. A quick check each morning keeps your tree looking beautiful through Christmas and beyond.
Clean or replace shower curtains and liners to reduce mold and mildew
Winter means longer showers, more humidity, and less ventilation, especially when windows stay shut. This is a perfect recipe for mildew to sneak up on you. Washing your curtain or replacing the liner is a simple task, but it instantly freshens up the bathroom and keeps moisture under control.
Replace your furnace filter and consider a mid-season check
This is one of the easiest ways to keep your home warm without overworking your heating system. A clean filter improves airflow and can help your furnace run more efficiently. Many homeowners forget the mid-winter change, but doing it now sets you up for better air quality all season long.
Add humidity back into the home for comfort and health.
Heaters pull moisture out of the air and can make your home feel dry. A small humidifier can protect wood floors, reduce static, and make the air feel warmer. This is especially helpful if you have plants, musical instruments, or anyone in the home who tends to get dry skin or sinus issues this time of year.
Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers
With fireplaces burning, ovens working overtime, candles glowing, and heaters running nonstop, this is the most important safety check of the entire season. Press the test buttons, replace any weak batteries, and make sure you know where your extinguishers are located.
December maintenance is about creating a home that feels warm, safe, and ready for long winter nights. These small, simple tasks protect your home now and prepare it for the cold weather still ahead. If you have questions about winterizing, or if you're considering a move in the new year, I’m always here and happy to help.
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