Preparing Your San Antonio Home for Winter

A Smart Homeowner’s Guide for South Texas Weather

Winter in San Antonio isn’t about blizzards — but homeowners know that sudden cold snaps, freezing rain, and high winds can still take a toll. Preparing your home now protects its value, keeps utility bills down, and helps avoid emergency repairs during our unpredictable weather.

Whether you’re staying put or planning to sell this winter, here’s how to get winter-ready in South Texas.

✅ 1. Give Your HVAC System a Seasonal Tune-Up

Air conditioning works hard most of the year here — don’t let your heater be an afterthought.

• Schedule a heating system check before the first cold front

• Replace HVAC filters every 30–60 days

• Consider duct sealing to reduce energy loss

• Install a smart thermostat for better control during weather swings

💡 High energy efficiency scores can be a strong selling point in San Antonio’s real estate market.

🪟 2. Weatherproof Against Temperature Drops

Even short freezes can cause expansion damage and heat loss.

• Add weatherstripping around doors and windows

• Check for drafts near sliding doors

• Close blinds/curtains on cold nights to retain heat

🔥 3. Inspect Your Fireplace (If You Have One)

While fireplaces aren’t used daily, they must remain safe.

• Have a certified chimney sweep inspect the flue

• For gas fireplaces, check ignition, ventilation & carbon monoxide alarms

• Keep fire extinguishers readily accessible

💧 4. Protect Plumbing — Even in Texas

The 2021 freeze taught us that San Antonio pipes aren’t built for deep temperatures.

• Insulate outdoor spigots and exposed pipes

• Disconnect hoses from hose bibs

• Know how to shut off water in emergencies

• During freezing warnings:

  • Allow faucets to drip

  • Open cabinet doors for airflow to pipes

🏡 5. Prepare the Exterior for Storms

High winds, hail, and sudden weather shifts are common in Bexar County.

• Clear gutters to prevent water backup & roof leaks

• Check roofing for hail damage or lifted shingles

• Trim branches near the home to reduce storm-risk debris

• Secure patio furniture before winter fronts move in

🌿 6. Manage Landscaping for Cooler Weather

• Protect cold-sensitive Texas plants if temps dip low

• Mulch flower beds to regulate soil temperature

• Winterize sprinklers to prevent freeze damage

📌 Neat, maintained landscaping boosts curb appeal for winter buyers.

😷 7. Prepare for Cedar Season

December through February brings mountain cedar allergies — a unique “Texas winter problem.”

• Change filters more frequently during high pollen days

• Keep doors/windows closed during high cedar count alerts

• Deep-clean vents if residents have allergies

⚡ 8. Build a Winter Storm Kit

We’ve been surprised before — better safe than sorry.

• Flashlights + batteries

• Bottled water

• Non-perishable food

• Backup phone chargers

• Warm blankets (in case of power outages)