Cold weather prep tips you need to know

When winter settles into Westchester and Putnam County, the cold can shift quickly. One calm morning followed by a deep freeze that puts your home to the test. That’s why so many local homeowners count on Burke Energy to keep their heating systems running strong all season long. A little preparation now can help you avoid frozen pipes, no heat emergencies, and the stress that comes with unpredictable winter weather.

Use these simple, practical tips to help your home stay warm, efficient and protected through every cold snap

Keep your heating systems running smoothly

• Make space for warm air to circulate – Keep vents, radiators and baseboards clear so heat can move freely throughout your home.
• Give your system a quick refresh – Clean or replace your air filter to help your equipment run more efficiently and reduce strain.
• Use space heaters safely – Keep them at least three feet from anything flammable and plug them directly into a wall outlet.
• Keep key contacts handy – Have your utility and fuel delivery numbers in an easy to reach spot.

Protect your pipes before temperatures drop

• Let faucets drip during extreme cold – 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 needed – Basements, crawl spaces and unheated rooms benefit from pipe insulation to reduce freeze risk.

Improve access and safety around your home

• Clear snow and ice around your driveway and fill pipe – This helps fuel delivery drivers and service technicians 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.

Stay prepared for outages and cold spells

• Charge essential devices before storms – Phones, flashlights, battery packs and generators should be ready ahead of time.
• Keep outage essentials nearby – Flashlights, blankets and bottled water should be easy to grab if the power goes out.
• Check thermostat batteries – Fresh batteries help prevent unexpected heat loss.
• Seal up drafts – Weatherstripping or rolled towels can help keep warm air inside and cold air out.

We’re the local heating experts you can rely on all winter long.

When winter weather hits hard, homeowners across Westchester and Putnam rely on Burke Energy for fast, dependable service. Whether your heat stops working or you’re dealing with a cold weather emergency, our local team is ready 24/7 to keep your home safe, warm, and comfortable.

For more seasonal tips, updates and winter alerts, follow Burke Energy on social media – and remember, we’re always here when you need us.