Newark, New Jersey – Another blast of Arctic air is preparing to move into New Jersey, and homeowners across the state are being reminded that overlooked winter prep issues can quickly lead to costly damage once temperatures plunge.
As colder air spreads statewide, frozen pipes remain the most common winter emergency. Pipes located in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are especially vulnerable, and sudden temperature drops can cause freezing and bursts that flood homes with little warning.
Blocked exterior vents are another frequently missed issue. Dryer, bathroom, and kitchen vents can become clogged with lint, snow, or ice, trapping moisture that freezes and forces airflow back into the home. These blockages can lead to water damage and increase fire risk when appliances are unable to vent properly.
Ice dams continue to cause problems across New Jersey during prolonged cold spells. Heat escaping through uneven attic insulation melts snow on rooftops, which then refreezes along colder roof edges. Water backs up beneath shingles, leading to ceiling damage, wet insulation, and interior wall issues. Older homes in Newark and surrounding communities are particularly vulnerable.
Frozen sump pump discharge lines also make the list of overlooked hazards. When outlet pipes freeze solid, melting snow has nowhere to go, increasing the risk of basement flooding during brief warmups.
Rounding out the top five is neglected heating equipment. Furnaces and boilers that haven’t been serviced can struggle or fail during peak demand, leaving homes without reliable heat and pushing residents toward unsafe heating alternatives.
Homeowners are urged to insulate exposed pipes, clear snow and debris from exterior vents, manage roof snow buildup safely, and ensure heating systems are operating efficiently before the cold tightens its grip. More cold-related alerts are expected as January’s winter pattern remains active across New Jersey.
