January 15, 2026
Start the New Year Right: Keep Your Home Safe, Cozy, and Efficient This Minnesota Winter

Minnesota Winters, BRRRRR


As the new year begins, Minnesota homeowners know what’s coming: subzero temps, snowdrifts, and the kind of cold that makes you grateful for every bit of warmth and comfort your home provides.
At TOVA, we believe that a well-cared-for home doesn’t just protect you from winter—it helps you enjoy it. Here’s how to make sure your home stays safe, cozy, and energy-efficient all season long.


1. Keep the Heat In (and the Cold Out)

Cold air has a sneaky way of finding cracks, gaps, and weak spots around your home.
Start by checking doors and windows for drafts—especially around weatherstripping, sills, and frames. A quick seal with caulk or foam tape can keep warm air inside and save on energy bills.

Don’t forget your attic and basement: proper insulation here can dramatically reduce heat loss.
👉 For more expert guidance, check out the University of Minnesota Extension’s guide on keeping your home warm and safe this winter.


2. Stay Ahead of Heating and Ventilation Issues

Your furnace works overtime during a Minnesota winter. Make sure it’s ready:

  • Replace or clean filters monthly.
  • Test carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Schedule a professional inspection to catch any issues before they become emergencies.

TOVA’s maintenance team can handle these checks for you—keeping your system efficient, safe, and reliable when it matters most.


3. Prevent Ice Dams and Roof Damage

Heavy snow and fluctuating temps can spell trouble for your roof. Ice dams form when heat escapes into the attic, melting snow that refreezes along the eaves. The result? Leaks, mold, and structural damage.

We recommend safely removing roof snow after major storms and keeping gutters clear of debris. TOVA’s subscribers often schedule proactive winter visits just for this reason—it’s the kind of task best handled by professionals with the right tools and safety gear.


4. Protect Your Plumbing from Freezing

Even one burst pipe can turn a cozy winter day into a major headache.
To prevent frozen pipes:

  • Keep your home above 55°F—even when away.
  • Insulate pipes near exterior walls.
  • Let faucets drip slightly on the coldest nights to maintain flow.

If you ever notice reduced water pressure or suspect a frozen pipe, call right away before it turns into costly damage.


5. Don’t Forget the Cozy Factor

Home maintenance isn’t just about protection—it’s about comfort.
Once your systems are running efficiently, add those finishing touches that make your space feel warm and welcoming:

  • Layer throw blankets and rugs.
  • Swap to soft, warm lighting.
  • Set a seasonal routine—perhaps your favorite coffee or a fire-lit evening once the snow starts to fall.

TOVA’s goal is to make sure you can actually enjoy these moments, not spend them worrying about what might go wrong.


Start the Year with Peace of Mind

A safe, efficient, and comfortable home doesn’t happen by accident—it comes from care, consistency, and trusted expertise. That’s where TOVA comes in.

Our HomeBase subscription plans make it easy to stay ahead of maintenance all year long—from winter heating checks to spring tune-ups and summer projects.


 Call us at 952-567-4959 or book your home maintenance visit at TOVAMN.com to start your year with confidence.


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