Alright, Florida, it’s time—winter is coming. Sure, we don’t have snowstorms or sub-zero temperatures like our friends up north, but the cooler, drier season still brings some unique opportunities to give your home a little TLC. Now’s the perfect time to tackle some tasks that will keep your space comfy, cozy and running smoothly as temperatures (hopefully) dip.
- Get your HVAC system ready for action
Even if Florida’s winters are more “sweater weather” than snow day, you’ll still need your HVAC to keep things comfy. Make sure your system is primed for both cooling and heating. Swap out or clean those air filters and double-check the thermostat to ensure it’s doing its job. If your HVAC has not been professionally serviced in more than one year, now is a great time to schedule a check-up.
- Seal the deal on insulation & drafts
We may not face freezing temps here in Florida, but those chilly nights can still sneak up on you. Ensure your home stays cozy and energy-efficient by checking your window and door weatherstripping. If it’s cracked or worn out, it’s time to replace it. This little step can prevent drafts that suck out your precious cool or warm air—and your energy bill along with it.
- Keep your pipes safe
While freezing temps aren’t a regular thing in Florida, the occasional cold snap can still pop up. To prevent any surprises, disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets, and drain any water from sprinklers and hoses. A frozen hose can lead to burst pipes, and that’s one winter problem you don’t want. For any exposed pipes in unheated areas (like garages), consider giving them a little extra protection with foam insulation or heat tape.
- Get your roof and gutters in tip-top shape
Hurricane season may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean you should skip roof and gutter maintenance. A little inspection now can save you a lot of headaches later. Look for any missing shingles, cracked tiles, or storm damage, and clear out leaves and debris from gutters to ensure proper drainage.
- Service your water heater for cozy showers
When the weather cools down, the hot water heater works overtime. Is yours up for the task? Take this opportunity to check your water heater and schedule a professional service if you haven’t done so this year. It’ll help avoid any cold showers and ensure your system is running at peak efficiency.
- Say goodbye to mold and moisture
Florida humidity doesn’t take a break, even in winter. It’s still important to check for mold and moisture issues, especially as airflow tends to drop in the cooler months. Focus on spots like bathrooms and kitchens where mold likes to hang out and clean up any visible signs with mold-killing solutions.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
With winter comes more time spent indoors, which means more use of your heating system. So, take a minute to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. While you’re at it, replace the batteries or even the whole unit if they’re over 10 years old.
By keeping up with these simple tasks, you can make sure your home stays comfy, energy-efficient, and safe through Florida’s winter months. Plus, regular maintenance can save you from unexpected repair costs down the line. So, let’s get ahead of the cold (and the heat) and keep our homes running smoothly all year long!
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