December Home Maintenance Checklist for Omaha Homeowners

Omaha winters are here, which means cozy nights in, and snow on the way. If you’re juggling holiday events, shopping, school programs, and trying to keep the house running… I see you. This December home maintenance checklist for Omaha homeowners keeps things simple, quick, and practical — perfect for the middle of holiday chaos and freezing temps.

1. Manage Snow & Ice Safely in Omaha Winters

• Keep your shovel or snowblower handy before the next storm hits.
• Clear sidewalks within 24 hours — it’s required in Omaha.
• Use concrete-friendly de-icers like magnesium chloride.
• Sprinkle sand or kitty litter for traction when temps fall below zero.

2. Check Your Furnace & HVAC for Winter Performance

• Replace your furnace filter.
• After snow or wind, check the outdoor furnace vent for ice or snow buildup.
• Listen for unusual noises — rattling, clicking, or short cycling may mean it’s time for a tune-up.

3. Monitor Indoor Humidity During Cold Omaha Temperatures

• Cold, dry outdoor air brings indoor humidity down once it’s heated inside.
• Use a hygrometer and aim for 30–40% humidity in winter.
• If humidity is too high (window condensation), turn down your humidifier or run exhaust fans.
• If humidity is too low (static, dry skin), run a humidifier in living spaces.
• Use “quick ventilation”: open a window for 5 minutes once or twice a week.

4. Improve Winter Ventilation & Airflow

• Run bathroom and kitchen fans after showers and cooking.
• Keep interior doors open so warm air circulates evenly.
• After hosting guests, do a quick 5-minute air refresh.

5. Simple Holiday Storage & Organization Tips

• Declutter décor as you unpack — donate what you don’t use.
• Store ornaments, lights, garlands, and linens in clear labeled bins.
• Keep bulky décor on high shelves or under beds.
• Create one portable wrapping supply bin to reduce clutter.

6. Inspect Outdoor Fixtures Before Freezing Temps Hit

• Check holiday light cords for frays or broken bulbs.
• Tighten loose porch or deck railings — they’re slick when icy.
• After windy storms, check your gutters to prevent ice dams.

7. Refresh Your Omaha Winter Emergency Kit

• Restock ice melt, flashlights, batteries, blankets, and portable chargers.
• Keep gloves and a small shovel in your car.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Confirm your snow removal plan for big storms.

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Why Winter Home Maintenance Matters in Omaha

Homes in our climate face heavy weather—freeze-thaw cycles, ice, wind, and extreme cold. Staying ahead of maintenance not only protects your home, but it increases long-term value and resale appeal.

Whether you’re planning to sell in the spring or you’re here for the long haul, taking care of winter prep now means fewer headaches later.

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Thinking About Selling in 2026?

If you’re considering listing your home in spring or early summer, December is actually the perfect time to start the process—from pre-inspection to small updates to planning your timeline.

I help homeowners across Omaha—from Midtown to Westside to Elkhorn—prepare, strategize, and present their homes at their best and highest value.

PS. If you missed last month’s list on how to prep your Omaha home for winter, here’s the November Home Maintenance Checklist.

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