Preparing Your Home for Winter — Southern Edition
While Georgia winters are milder than most, seasonal shifts can still take a toll on your home. Prepping now can help you stay comfortable, avoid costly repairs, and keep your home running efficiently during the colder months.
Here’s your Southern winter prep checklist:
✅ Schedule an HVAC Check
Even with moderate temps, winter is prime heating season.
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Change air filters
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Have HVAC inspected and serviced
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Clean vents and registers
A well-maintained system keeps energy bills in check.
✅ Seal Drafts & Check Insulation
Cold snaps happen!
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Inspect weatherstripping around doors and windows
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Seal gaps around siding, plumbing, and outlets
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Add insulation to attics if needed
Stopping drafts improves comfort and energy efficiency.
✅ Prepare Landscaping
Protect your curb appeal through winter:
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Cover sensitive plants during freezes
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Aerate and fertilize lawns in November
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Clean leaves from gutters to prevent blockages
✅ Fire Safety & Heating Prep
Even if you only use your fireplace occasionally:
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Have chimney inspected and cleaned
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Test smoke and CO detectors
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Check fire extinguishers
Safety first — cozy nights second!
✅ Check Weatherproofing on Outdoor Spaces
Even mild winter weather can impact patios and entryways.
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Seal wood decks and railings
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Inspect outdoor tile or concrete for cracks
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Protect outdoor furniture with covers
This helps extend the life of your outdoor spaces and keeps them ready for spring.
✅ Inspect Your Roof & Exterior
A quick exterior check now can prevent leaks later.
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Look for missing or damaged shingles
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Clear leaves from roof valleys
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Inspect siding and exterior caulking
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Ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation
Seasonal rain + occasional frost = a good time to stay proactive.
✅ Prep Your Plumbing for Cold Snaps
We don’t see long freezes here often — but when they happen, pipes can still burst.
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Know how to shut off your main water valve
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Insulate exposed pipes (especially outside or in garages)
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Leave faucets dripping during rare freezes
A little planning prevents expensive water damage if temperatures dip suddenly.
