If You Live in Minnesota, You Need to Do This Before the First Hard Freeze

Southern Minnesota enjoyed a longer summer this year. September was pretty warm, and the first weekend of October had temps pushing into the upper 80s.

It's feeling more like fall in Rochester and across the state of Minnesota now with more seasonable conditions. And it won’t be long before the leaves are all down and the colder air really settles in. Winter is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to start winterizing your home.

Get our free mobile app

ALSO READ: CANADIAN PACIFIC HOLIDAY TRAIN ANNOUNCES SE MN STOPS

What Will Winter Be Like in Minnesota?

Honestly, it feels like we’re due for a rough one. We've had a few years of pretty mild winters with not much snow, and the Farmers’ Almanac seems to agree. They are predicting a “wild ride” this year with really cold air and plenty of snow.

Some people go all-in with their winter prep, while others don’t do much at all. But there’s one simple task that everyone should absolutely do because skipping it could end up costing you thousands of dollars.

How to Get Your Home Ready for Winter in Minnesota

There are a few quick and easy things you can do to get ahead of the cold:

• Check your windows and doors for drafts, and seal up any leaks with caulk or insulation kits.
• Clean out your gutters to avoid ice dams.
• Make sure your furnace is running well—change the filter if needed.
• It’s also a great time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

These are all simple steps, but there’s one that’s just as easy but often overlooked.

One Thing Every Minnesotan Needs to Do Right Now To Prepare for Winter

Disconnect your garden hoses from outdoor faucets now before you forget. Forgetting to do this can lead to expensive water damage inside your home. The cold winter air can trap water in your pipes. Once it freezes, that water expands, and it can cause your pipes or outdoor spigots to burst.