Winter in LA may not bring blizzards and snow to your door, but it can still wreak havoc on your home if you’re not well-prepped. Where to begin? Well, the RE experts at Smith & Berg Property Group have created some top tips for winterizing your LA abode now, before winter does its number and derails your cozy nights at home.
1. Inspect and Clean Your HVAC System
With the mercury starting to dip, it's time to give your trusty HVAC unit some extra love and care. We recommend scheduling a tune-up with a reputable HVAC technician to thoroughly inspect the system and make any necessary adjustments or repairs. This ensures your furnace, vents, and other components are in tip-top shape and running at peak efficiency. Not only will this keep you and your family toasty-warm all season long, but it can also help lower your monthly energy bills.
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2. Seal Drafts and Gaps
Sure, we may not be dealing with howling winds and icy blasts, but that doesn't mean your home is completely airtight. Take a close look around windows, doors, and any other potential trouble spots, using a keen eye and your hands to detect any cracks or gaps. Then, armed with caulk and weatherstripping, get to work sealing up those problem areas. This simple task goes a long way in keeping the cold air out and the warm air in, helping your home stay cozy and comfortable.
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3. Protect Outdoor Plumbing
While frozen pipes may not be a concern here in sunny LA, it's still a good idea to winterize any outdoor faucets or irrigation systems before the temperatures start to drop. Our team recommends shutting off the water supply to these external fixtures and disconnecting any hoses. This prevents against leaks and water damage when the temps dip.
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4. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
When those winter rain showers start rolling in, you'll want to make sure your home's drainage system is clear and ready to handle the job. Grab a ladder and take a close look at your gutters and downspouts, clearing out any leaves, twigs, or other debris that may have accumulated. This allows water to flow freely away from your roof and foundation, helping to prevent leaks, flooding, and other moisture-related issues.
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5. Winterize Your Outdoor Oasis
While you may not be using your pool or patio as often during the winter, it's still important to take steps to protect these outdoor spaces. For starters, be sure to close up and cover your pool — this helps prevent pesky debris buildup and cuts down on maintenance. You'll also want to drain water from any irrigation systems and outdoor faucets to avoid freezing and cracking.
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And don't forget to store or cover up your patio furniture, grills, and other equipment to shield them from the elements. Finally, take some time to give your landscaping a quick trim. Cutting back any overgrown plants, trees, or shrubs can go a long way in preventing storm damage from heavy rain or wind.
6. Transition Your Home Decor
Sure, the weather might not drastically change, but you can still update your home’s interior decor to capture the cozier feel of winter. Start by swapping out lighter fabrics for warmer, more inviting textures like plush throws and boucle pillows, like these from Jenni Kayne. You can also add some seasonal greenery by placing evergreen sprigs or small potted plants on your coffee table or entryway console.
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And when it comes to colors, incorporate richer, deeper hues like burgundy or forest green. Finally, place a strong focus on low light, ideally from candles (how perfect is this hurricane candle holder from Hudson Grace?) or table lamps with soft light bulbs. This can help make your living space feel warm and welcoming as the daylight hours grow shorter.
