5 Ways to Winterize Your Home in Under an Hour

Houston weather is unpredictable — one minute it’s sweater season, the next it’s flip-flop weather. Those quick temperature swings can fool homeowners into thinking there’s plenty of time to prepare for winter. But as recent cold snaps have taught us, a few simple steps can make all the difference when that next freeze hits.

The good news? Winter prep doesn’t need to take all weekend. Here are five easy ways to winterize your home in under an hour — no fancy tools or handyman required.

1. Switch Your Ceiling Fans

Why it matters: Warm air rises, which means it can get trapped near your ceiling.

What to do: Flip the direction of your ceiling fan to rotate clockwise on low speed. This creates a gentle updraft that pushes warm air down, helping your home stay comfortable without touching the thermostat.

2. Change Your Air Filters

Why it matters: Clogged filters make your HVAC system work harder and waste energy.

What to do: Replace filters every month during high-use seasons. Fresh filters improve airflow, extend system life, and keep your indoor air cleaner — all big wins for comfort and efficiency.

3. Check for Winter Drafts Around Windows & Doors

Why it matters: Gaps and worn weather stripping let cold air sneak in and warm air leak out.

What to do: Run your hand along door frames and window edges to feel for airflow. Replace worn weather stripping or use caulk to seal small gaps. It’s a quick fix that can lower heating costs and make your home feel instantly warmer.

4. Inspect Your Attic Insulation

Why it matters: Insufficient insulation is one of the biggest culprits behind high heating bills.

What to do: Houston homes should have at least 14 inches of insulation in the attic. Check for spots where insulation has fallen, compacted, or looks damp — these can cause heat loss. If you see bare spots or uneven levels, it might be time to top it off.

5. Test Your Thermostat

Why it matters: A properly working thermostat keeps your home comfortable and efficient.

What to do: Switch your system to “heat” mode and make sure it cycles correctly. Compare your thermostat’s reading with the actual room temperature — they should match closely. If not, recalibrate or consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and energy savings.

Pro tip: Set your thermostat between 68°F and 70°F while you’re home to balance comfort and cost savings.

Remember...

Preparing your home for winter doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. These quick checks can help you save money, reduce strain on your HVAC system, and avoid mid-season breakdowns.

Final Thoughts

If you’d rather skip the DIY and leave it to the pros, our team at Velocity Air A/C & Heating is ready to help. Whether you need routine maintenance, quick repairs, or a full system replacement, we will keep your HVAC running efficiently and safely, so your home stays comfortable no matter the Texas weather. We provide expert Houston HVAC repair services, Houston HVAC installation services, and Houston HVAC preventive maintenance to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently all season long. Velocity Air A/C & Heating is proud to provide Houston HVAC services, including maintenance, emergency repair, and installation, to the Greater Houston Area.

Make sure to check out our blogs on Smart Thermostats and Changing Air Filters.