Winter in southwestern Pennsylvania can bring more than just cold temperatures — it can bring snowstorms, ice, and the very real possibility of power outages. When the lights go out and temperatures drop, being prepared isn’t just convenient… it’s essential for safety, comfort, and protecting your home.
Here’s a practical guide to help you prepare your home and family for winter power interruptions — based on real inspection experience and common issues we see in homes throughout Cambria, Somerset, Westmoreland, Blair, Indiana, and Bedford Counties.
1) Know Your Home’s Electrical System
Your home’s electrical panel is the heart of your power distribution.
• Label circuits clearly. Knowing what breaker controls what can save time and stress during an outage.
• Inspect panel condition. Loose connections and corrosion are fire hazards and more likely to show issues when systems start under load after outages.
Pro Tip: If you notice flickering lights, warm breakers, or rust at the panel, have a licensed electrician evaluate it before winter’s peak.
2) Plan Safe Backup Power
Whether it’s a portable generator or a whole-home standby system, backup power can provide peace of mind — when used safely.
Portable Generators
• Never operate indoors or in garages — deadly carbon monoxide can accumulate.
• Use heavy-duty outdoor extension cords to power appliances.
• Keep fuel stored in approved containers, away from heat sources.
Standby Generators
• Installed by a professional.
• Automatically switch on when power fails.
• Must have a transfer switch to isolate from utility lines and prevent backfeed.
Pro Tip: Test your backup power before you need it — snowstorms aren’t the time to discover dead batteries or low fuel.
3) Winter Emergency Supply Checklist
A short power outage can become an emergency without proper supplies.
✔ Flashlights and extra batteries
✔ Portable battery chargers for phones
✔ Non-perishable food and bottled water
✔ Blankets, warm clothing, hats/gloves
✔ First-aid kit and medications
✔ Battery-powered radio or NOAA weather alert radio
Pro Tip: Keep supplies in a central, easy-to-reach location and refresh them each season.
4) Stay Warm Without Electric Heat
If the furnace won’t run, make a plan.
• Fireplace or wood stove: Ensure the chimney is clean and damper works.
• Kerosene or propane heaters: Only use outdoor-rated units with proper ventilation.
• Layering: Insulate yourself before heating the space — extra blankets, warm socks, and hats make a huge difference.
Never use a gas oven or stovetop as a heat source — this can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.
5) Protect Plumbing During Outages
Loss of heat plus cold nights can freeze pipes quickly.
• Let faucets drip slightly during extended outages.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate.
• Insulate exposed pipes in basements and crawlspaces.
Pro Tip: Know where your main water shut-off valve is — if a pipe bursts, shutting off water limits damage.
6) Roof & Structural Snow Load Awareness
Heavy, wet snow can add serious weight to roofs.
• Visually inspect roofline for sagging or uneven snow build-up.
• Use a roof rake from the ground to remove excess snow (never climb on icy roofs).
• Look for ice build-up near eaves which can lead to ice dams and water intrusion.
** Pro Tip:** If snow accumulation is significant after an outage or storm, call a professional before it becomes a structural problem.
Final Thoughts
Winter power outages are unpredictable, but your home and family don’t have to be unprepared. With a plan, proper supplies, and safety-focused practices, you’ll stay safer and more comfortable when Mother Nature tests your preparedness.
If you’d like a professional home evaluation that includes electrical system readiness, emergency power considerations, and winter safety insights, Hill Property Inspections can help. Our certified inspectors use infrared imaging and system checks to uncover hidden issues before they become emergencies.
Schedule your winter-ready inspection today:
📞 1-833-HILL-PRO
🌐 http://www.hillinspections.com
Hill Property Inspections, LLC is a full-service residential and commercial inspection firm based in the greater Johnstown, PA area, helping homeowners protect their investments through education and professional service.
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