Winter checklist · Red Cross–toned
Number the steps. Seal the drafts. Watch the pipes.
Fixture-style winter guides: numbered prep steps, heater safety matrices and pipe checklists built from maker specs plus Red Cross and CDC guidance. No invented lab scores.
Red Cross–toned checklistsMaker specs datedCDC / NFPA safety links
Fixture checklist
Seven winter steps
- Drain outdoor linesRemove, drain and store hoses. Close inside valves to hose bibs; leave outside bibs open so leftover water can expand. (Red Cross)
- Insulate the cold spotsAdd insulation in attics, basements and crawl spaces. Sleeve exposed hot and cold pipes, or add UL-listed heat tape or cable.
- Seal the draftsWeatherstrip doors and windows, then decide whether a shrink-film kit is worth the coverage for your panes.
- Stage safe supplemental heatPick a listed heater with tip-over or overheat protection. Keep 3 ft clear; plug straight into the wall. (NFPA)
- Install CO and smoke alarmsBattery-backed CO alarms near sleeping areas. Generators stay outdoors, at least 20 ft from doors and windows. (CDC)
- Hold a steady thermostatSame setting day and night in a freeze. If you travel, leave heat on at 55°F or higher. (Red Cross)
- Know the thaw sequenceTrickle only? Keep the faucet open. Warm the pipe with a pad, hair dryer, clear space heater or hot towels — never an open flame.
Safety-feature matrix
What each heater lists
| Model | Max W | Tip-over | Overheat | Listing | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vornado MVH | 1500 | Yes (~10°) | Auto shut-off | — | 5 yr limited |
| Lasko 754200 | 1500 | Not listed | Yes | ETL | 3 yr limited |
| De'Longhi Dragon 4 | 1500 | — | — | — | 1 yr limited (US) |
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