How to prepare your home for the next New England cold snap.

Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts know winter better than most. One cold front can turn into a week of freezing temperatures overnight. That’s why so many local homeowners trust Wood’s Heating Service to help them stay ahead of the weather. A little preparation can help you avoid frozen pipes, no heat emergencies and the stress that comes with sudden temperature drops.

Use these simple steps to help keep your home warm, protected and ready for whatever winter brings next.

Heating and home comfort essentials

• Keep heat circulating efficiently – Make sure radiators, vents and baseboards are clear so warm air can move through your home.
• Give your heating system a quick checkup – Clean or replace your air filter to help your system run more smoothly.
• Use space heaters with caution – Keep them at least three feet from anything flammable and plug them directly into a wall outlet.
• Have emergency contacts ready – Keep utility and fuel delivery numbers in a spot you can grab quickly.

Protecting pipes and plumbing

• Let faucets drip during extreme lows – A slow trickle can help prevent pipes from freezing.
• Warm up exposed plumbing – Open cabinet doors on exterior walls to let heat reach vulnerable pipes.
• Add insulation where it matters – Basements, crawl spaces and unheated rooms benefit from pipe insulation to reduce freeze risk.

Home access and winter safety

• Clear snow and ice around your driveway and fill pipe – This helps fuel delivery drivers and utility crews reach your home safely.
• Mark your fill area in deep snow – A stake or flag improves visibility when snow piles up.
• Check carbon monoxide detectors – Replace batteries and confirm alarms are working before the next cold stretch.

Power and preparedness tips

• Charge essential devices ahead of storms – Phones, flashlights, battery packs and generators should be ready before the weather turns.
• Prepare for possible outages – Keep flashlights, blankets and bottled water in an easy to reach spot.
• Check thermostat batteries – Fresh batteries help prevent unexpected heat loss.
• Seal up drafts and heat loss points – Weatherstripping or rolled towels can help keep warm air inside.

Wood’s Heating Service is here for you – anytime you need us.

New England winters can be unpredictable but your heating service shouldn’t be. Homeowners across Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts rely on Wood’s Heating Service for fast, dependable support whenever the weather turns harsh. If your heat goes out or you’re facing a winter emergency, our local team is ready 24/7 to keep your home safe and warm.

Follow Wood’s Heating Service on social media for more seasonal tips, updates, and cold weather alerts and contact us if you have a cold weather heating emergency.