Winter in Pennsylvania can be picturesque, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From icy sidewalks to frozen pipes, the season brings potential risks to your home that can lead to costly damages. At Bleiler Insurance, we believe in protecting what matters most—and that means offering insurance solutions to help you through the winter season stress-free.
Here’s a look at some winter safety tips to help you can safeguard your home this winter and how the right insurance coverage plays a vital role.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common issues homeowners face during winter. When temperatures drop, water in the pipes can freeze, expand, and cause the pipes to burst, leading to significant water damage.
Prevention Tips:
- Keep your home heated to at least 55°F, even if you’re away.
- Insulate exposed pipes, especially in areas like basements or crawl spaces.
- Let faucets drip during extreme cold to keep water moving.
How Insurance Helps:
Most homeowners insurance policies cover water damage caused by burst pipes, but only if proper precautions were taken. This means it’s essential to maintain your home to avoid claim denials.
Clear Snow and Ice from Walkways
Icy sidewalks are not only a hazard for your family but also for guests or delivery drivers. Slips and falls can result in injuries—and potential liability claims.
Prevention Tips:
- Shovel snow and apply de-icer or sand to walkways and driveways.
- Consider hiring a snow removal service if you’re unable to do it yourself.
- Trim overhanging branches that could break under heavy snow and damage your property or injure someone.
How Insurance Helps:
Liability coverage in your homeowners insurance can protect you if someone gets injured on your property. However, regular maintenance is key to avoiding incidents altogether.
Guard Against Roof Damage
Heavy snow and ice can put a strain on your roof, leading to leaks, structural damage, or even collapse.
Prevention Tips:
- Clear snow off your roof after heavy storms using a roof rake or by hiring a professional.
- Ensure gutters are clean before winter to prevent ice dams.
- Check your attic insulation to reduce the risk of ice buildup.
How Insurance Helps:
Standard homeowners policies usually cover roof damage caused by snow or ice, but coverage limits may vary depending on your plan. Our agents can help ensure you have adequate protection.
Protect Your Heating System
Your furnace or heating system works overtime in the winter, making it essential to keep it in top condition. A malfunction can not only leave you in the cold but may also cause a fire.
Prevention Tips:
- Schedule annual HVAC maintenance before the winter chill sets in.
- Replace air filters regularly to keep your system running efficiently.
- Never leave space heaters unattended or use them as your primary heat source.
How Insurance Helps:
Homeowners insurance typically covers damage from fires caused by heating system malfunctions, but routine maintenance is critical to reducing risks.
Review Your Insurance Coverage
Winter is a perfect time to evaluate your homeowners insurance policy to ensure you’re adequately covered. With the unpredictable weather, having the right protection can make all the difference.
How Bleiler Insurance Can Help:
We work with top providers like Penn National, Safeco, and Lititz Mutual to offer tailored insurance options that fit your needs and budget. Whether it’s upgrading your liability coverage or ensuring your home is protected against winter damage, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Stay Safe and Protected This Winter
At Bleiler Insurance, we’re not just about offering policies—we’re about offering peace of mind. Winter can be unpredictable, but with the right precautions and insurance coverage, you can focus on enjoying the season without worrying about what might go wrong.
Get Started Today!
Let us help you protect your home this winter. Contact Bleiler Insurance to speak with one of our agents or visit our website to get a free quote. We’ll work with you to find the perfect coverage to keep your family and home safe—no matter what the weather brings.
Stay safe, stay warm, and let us handle the rest.
