❄️ Winter Prep Tips: How to Keep Your Apartment Safe & Comfortable This Winter

Winter in Erie can be unpredictable, cold, and tough on apartments—but a little preparation goes a long way! At Bauer Property Management (BPM), we want to help tenants stay warm, comfortable, and stress-free during the winter months.

Here are some easy winter prep tips to help protect your apartment and avoid common cold-weather issues ⛄

🔥 Keep Your Heat On (Even When You’re Away)

It can be tempting to turn the heat way down when you leave, but keeping your heat set to a consistent temperature helps prevent frozen pipes.

✔ Keep your thermostat set to a safe temperature at all times
✔ Avoid turning heat completely off
✔ Let us know right away if you experience loss of heat

🚰 Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can cause serious damage. Help prevent them by:

🧊 Opening cabinet doors under sinks so warm air can circulate
🧊 Letting faucets drip slightly during extreme cold (if advised)
🧊 Making sure plumbing areas are not blocked

If you notice low water pressure, strange noises, or no water at all—report it immediately!

🪟 Seal in the Warmth

Cold air sneaking in makes your heating system work harder.

✔ Keep windows and doors fully closed and locked
✔ Use curtains or blinds to help insulate windows
✔ Avoid blocking radiators or vents with furniture

🧼 Change Furnace Filters (If Applicable)

Some units have tenant-accessible furnace filters.

✔ Check your lease to see if this applies to your unit
✔ Replacing dirty filters helps heating systems work efficiently
✔ If you’re unsure, submit a maintenance request and we’ll help

❄️ Be Mindful of Snow & Ice

Winter weather brings snow and ice hazards.

🚪 Use caution on steps, walkways, and entryways
🚗 Park only in designated areas—especially during snow removal
📞 Report icy or unsafe conditions through your tenant portal

⚠️ Know When to Call for Help

Some winter issues can’t wait.

🚨 Call emergency maintenance if you experience:

  • Loss of heat

  • Burst or frozen pipes

  • Water leaks

  • Strong gas odors

Quick reporting helps prevent major damage and keeps everyone safe.

🧤 A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Taking a few simple steps now can save time, stress, and discomfort later. Winter prep helps protect your apartment—and helps BPM respond quickly when issues arise.

If you ever have questions about winter care or need assistance, our team is here to help. Stay warm and safe this winter! ❄️🏠