Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Another surge of Arctic air is lining up to push across Pennsylvania, and homeowners are being warned that overlooked winter prep issues can quickly lead to costly damage once deep cold settles in.
As frigid temperatures spread statewide, frozen pipes remain the most common winter emergency. Pipes running through basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls are especially vulnerable, and rapid temperature drops can cause freezing and ruptures that flood homes with little warning.
Blocked exterior vents are another problem frequently missed until it’s too late. Dryer, bathroom, and kitchen vents can become clogged by 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 cannot vent properly.
Ice dams continue to cause damage across much of Pennsylvania 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 interior ceiling damage, wet insulation, and mold concerns. Older homes in Philadelphia and surrounding counties are particularly susceptible.
Frozen sump pump discharge lines also rank high among winter hazards. When outlet pipes freeze solid, melting snow has nowhere to drain, 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 forcing residents to rely on space heaters, which increases electrical and fire risks.
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. Additional cold-related alerts are expected as January’s winter pattern continues across Pennsylvania.
