Florida Winter Home Maintenance: Keep Your Home in Tip-Top Shape This Season

Winter in Florida may not bring snowstorms or freezing temps, but that doesn’t mean you should skip out on seasonal home maintenance. Even in our sunny state, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your home comfortable and in great shape as temperatures dip (well, kind of). Here are some essential winter home maintenance tips for Floridians:

1. Check Your HVAC System

You might not need to crank up the heat too often, but your HVAC system still deserves some TLC before winter. Schedule a professional inspection and change your filters to ensure your system runs efficiently, whether you’re cooling or warming your home.

2. Seal Drafts and Gaps

Even in mild winter weather, small drafts can make your home less energy-efficient. Check doors, windows, and any exterior openings for gaps, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk to keep the warm (or cool) air inside and save on energy bills.

3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Florida's rainy season might be over, but winter can still bring unexpected showers. Clean out leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and water damage. Make sure water can flow away from your home’s foundation to avoid flooding.

4. Inspect Your Roof

While we aren’t dealing with snow, Florida's winter storms can still pack a punch. Check your roof for any missing or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks, and make sure it’s ready to withstand any surprise weather.

5. Protect Outdoor Plumbing

On the rare occasion temperatures drop near freezing, you’ll want to protect your outdoor pipes. Cover hose bibs with insulation to prevent cracks and leaks, and disconnect garden hoses to avoid frozen water buildup.

6. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Florida’s winter is a good time to trim back overgrown trees and shrubs, especially if they’re near your home. This reduces the risk of branches falling during storms and keeps your landscaping in check for the spring season.

7. Pool Prep

You may not be closing your pool like our Northern neighbors, but winter is a great time to inspect the pool equipment, clean filters, and adjust the chemical levels. Keep your pool in top shape to avoid bigger maintenance issues down the road.