Published: November 15, 2024

Simple Steps to Prepare Your Home Before Winter

As the year winds down, it’s time to think about preparing your home for the cooler weather and seasonal changes that winter brings. While San Diego’s winters are generally mild compared to many other places, the temperature can still drop, and the seasonal rains can affect your home. Taking a few simple steps now helps ensure your home is ready for the winter, making it more comfortable, energy-efficient, and safe.

Clean the Gutters

Though San Diego winters are mild, the rain can still cause problems if your gutters are clogged. Debris from trees and plants accumulates in gutters over time, and during winter rains, this can cause water to back up and overflow. Overflowing gutters can lead to leaks, water damage, and even damage to your home’s foundation. Cleaning your gutters now will help keep them clear and allow rainwater to flow properly away from your home. If you’re not comfortable with heights or the physical task of cleaning gutters, consider hiring a professional.

Check the Roof for Leaks

Roof leaks are a problem no matter the climate, and while San Diego typically experiences only a few heavy rains throughout the winter, it’s still important to inspect your roof. Check for missing or damaged shingles that could let water in. Small roof problems may not seem urgent, but they can worsen during the wet season, leading to leaks and water damage. If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof or don’t have the tools to inspect it properly, hiring a professional roofing contractor can save you from unexpected, costly repairs. 

Seal the Windows and Doors of Your Home

Even in San Diego, where winter temperatures don’t typically drop too low, drafts can still make your home feel chilly and increase your energy bills. Before winter fully sets in, check the seals around your windows and doors. If you notice any drafts, it’s time to apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal the gaps. By sealing your windows and doors, you’ll not only keep warm air inside, but you’ll also prevent moisture from seeping into your home. This can protect your interior from mold, mildew, and any potential water damage caused by the winter rains.

Service Your Heating System

San Diego’s winters may be mild, but you’ll still want your heating system to be working efficiently when you need it. Schedule an inspection and service for your heating system before the coldest months arrive. A professional HVAC technician will check the system for any potential issues, clean it, and replace filters if necessary. Regular maintenance will help ensure your system is running efficiently when you need it most. If you use space heaters, fireplaces, or wood stoves, it’s important to have them cleaned and inspected as well.

Prepare Outdoor Spaces

San Diego’s mild winters mean you can still spend time outside, but preparing your outdoor areas for the seasonal changes is important. Start by cleaning and storing away your summer outdoor furniture, garden tools, and grills. Protect your patio furniture with covers or store it in a dry, sheltered area to keep it from being damaged by the occasional rain. Check the condition of outdoor structures like pergolas, sheds, or decks, and make sure everything is secure. Winter storms, even in San Diego, can bring heavy winds, so checking on everything is important.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

During the cooler months, many people turn to space heaters, fireplaces, or gas-powered heating systems, which increases the risk of fire or carbon monoxide exposure. That’s why it’s important to test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they’re working properly. Replace the batteries in each unit and test them to make sure they’re functioning correctly. This step will help keep your family safe during the winter, especially when you begin using your heating system more frequently. 

Preparing your home for winter doesn’t require drastic changes, but taking a few simple steps will ensure your home remains safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient during the cooler months. By cleaning gutters, checking your roof, sealing drafts, servicing your heating system, preparing outdoor spaces, and testing safety detectors, you’ll be well-equipped to handle whatever the winter weather brings. While San Diego’s winters are generally mild, it’s always best to be prepared for the occasional cold snap or rainstorm. With these simple tasks completed, you’ll be able to enjoy the season without worry, knowing your home is ready for whatever comes your way.

Do you need storage space as you prepare your home for winter? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of San Diego or call (858) 225-8335.