Dewinterizing Your Home in Houston: A Guide from Your Local Inspection Experts

As spring approaches in Houston, it’s time to dewinterize your home and ensure it’s ready for the warmer months ahead. While Houston’s winters are milder than most, many homeowners still take precautions like shutting off water or winterizing plumbing to protect against the occasional freeze. Dewinterizing is the process of reversing those steps, and doing it right can save you from costly repairs. Here’s our expert advice to get your home back in shape.

1. Turn On the Water Supply

Start by safely restoring your water supply. If you turned off the main water valve during winter, locate it (usually near the street or in a basement/utility area) and slowly turn it back on. Open the valve gradually to avoid a sudden pressure surge that could stress pipes. Check for leaks as water flows back into the system—Houston’s humidity and clay-rich soil can shift foundations, making pipe joints more prone to cracking.

2. Inspect Plumbing and Fixtures

Once the water is on, check all faucets, toilets, and outdoor spigots for proper flow and signs of damage. Run both hot and cold water to ensure the water heater is functioning. Houston’s warm climate means frozen pipes are rare, but even a brief cold snap can cause issues in older homes or uninsulated areas. Look for drips, odd noises, or reduced pressure, and call a plumber if anything seems off.

3. Check the HVAC System

Winter may be over, but in Houston, your air conditioning is about to take center stage. Switch your thermostat from heating to cooling mode and test the AC. Replace air filters if they’re dirty—our humid climate can clog them fast. Schedule a professional tune-up to ensure your system can handle the heat and humidity of a Houston summer.

4. Examine Outdoor Areas

Houston’s mild winters mean outdoor systems like sprinklers and pools may have been idle but not fully winterized. Turn on your irrigation system zone by zone to check for broken heads or leaks—our shifting soil can displace lines. For pools, remove covers, check pumps, and inspect for cracks or damage from debris.

5. Look for Hidden Damage

Winter moisture, even in Houston, can lead to mold or pest issues. Inspect crawlspaces, attics, and exterior walls for signs of water intrusion or critters that may have sought shelter. Our coastal proximity makes termites a year-round concern, so keep an eye out for mud tubes or wood damage.