You may not think we need to prepare for winter. Technically we’ve been in “autumn” since September; true winter doesn’t begin until the winter solstice in late December. Plus, it’s been warm and dry this year. This most recent October was the warmest October we’ve seen since… well, since we started keeping records in the 1800s. We’re in the worst drought we’ve seen in decades. We haven’t received more than two inches of rain in a single event since January of last year. For Christmas we ended up taking the matching sweaters off the toddler and dog because they were both sweating. We must not have much to worry about, right?
We know that San Antonio’s winter isn’t what the Minnesotans and Coloradans are used to. Though our winters don’t get particularly cold and we rarely see snow, our winter weather can often catch us off guard. In 2021 when “Snowpocalypse” happened, we saw both ice and snow stay on the ground for over a week. We’ve seen snow or ice stick around in only about a dozen of the last 50 years. Just because we’re not used to seeing true wintery weather, doesn’t mean we won’t get to experience it from time to time. And around here our roads and homes aren’t really designed for the cold.
With the variety and frequency of what we can expect ranging so dramatically it may seem that there isn’t much we can do to prepare, but that isn’t the case. Here are a few practical steps you can take to make sure your home is ready for winter.
So far this season we have yet to turn on our heater; we definitely still have days where the air conditioner comes on. However irrelevant it may seem now, make sure to check your heater before you are in need of its services. If possible, have your HVAC inspected. Not only is winter a good time to find deals on services, but when a surprise cold front blows down from the North you won’t want to be waiting on the repair guy to come by.
If you are more in the DIY camp like me, you may opt for the slightly less convenient option: crawling into the attic to check the crawlspace. Especially in homes built before 2000 this can be immensely beneficial. Take the opportunity to update old insulation. This pink fuzzy stuff can be somewhat expensive, but it is a worthwhile investment for your home. While you’re up there, check for and seal any cracks and leaks. Particularly ones that lead outside.
Don’t forget to check your outdoor plumbing as well. Insulate and cover pipes before freezing weather arrives. Make sure hoses are empty and disconnected. The easiest way to drain a hose is to unfurl it, stretch it out flat in your yard and walk the length of the hose lifting the section above your head as you go. This will make sure the hose is completely empty and won’t burst if freezing temperatures come our way. Don’t forget to winterize your sprinkler and pool as well. A burst pipe can be a costly repair.
We like to think about staying warm and cozy during cold winter weather, but make sure not to forget your outdoor plants as well. Many of the plants we grow here in South Texas aren’t accustomed to freezing temperatures. Make sure to cover tropical and non-frost hardy plants before a freeze. If possible make plans to bring potted plants into the garage or collect in one area to make covering them easier. One thing to keep in mind is to make sure you uncover plants during the day so they can still receive sunlight. And, if you missed the memo on a freeze and you had plants get too frosty, there is still a small window of hope. Lightly mist frost-covered plants with water before sunrise. This can help some plants recover from the icy crystals penetrating their plant cell walls. I’ve saved a couple plants this way. Another great idea is to make sure all trees are trimmed before January. Freezing rain is relatively common here and can easily take down large oak branches.
In the last few years the biggest threat Texans have faced during times of intense winter weather is power outages. How can you prepare? Find the best alternative heat sources for your home. We have a fireplace, but it was designed with our home during the 1980s and though it’s woodburning, it doesn’t heat effectively at all. So, while we do keep a stash of firewood, we also have other options. I can honestly say the most fun option is to have a tent available. Not for sleeping outside during a cold snap, but to set up in your living room or bedroom during a power outage. Creating a small insulated space within a room is a great way to stay cozy. Fill it up with blankets, books, and games and you won’t be too worried about the chilly house, especially at night. Closing doors and hanging blankets over openings, especially staircases, can help keep spaces feeling comfortable.
I’ve heard so many say that fall and winter are the reasons we live here in South Texas. Usually our winter is about as nice as it comes, so around here don’t waste your money on ice scrapers and snow blowers. That’s not going to help at all. But, it is worth it to invest a little time. How much is it worth to you to get your South Texas home ready for this winter?
