Tips for Perth Homeowners on How to Prepare Your Home for Winter

As the first of the rainy days roll in this week and the Perth winter weather approaches, it’s important for homeowners to take steps to ensure their properties are comfortable, efficient, and safe for the season ahead. This is especially important for homes in coastal suburbs like Hillarys and Burns Beach, where the ocean climate can bring unique challenges.

Here are some of the Noble Avenue Real Estate team's practical tips to prepare your home for the cooler months, ensuring you stay warm and your home remains in top condition.

1. Seal Drafts and Leaks

Cold air can seep into your home through gaps around windows, doors, and other openings. Use weather stripping, caulking, or draft excluders to seal these gaps. Not only will this keep your home warmer, but it will also improve energy efficiency.

2.Prepare Your Garden

Winter can be harsh on your garden, so take steps to protect your plants. Mulch garden beds to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Prune trees and shrubs to remove dead branches that could become hazardous during storms. Coastal homes should also consider planting salt-tolerant plants.

3. Improve Window Efficiency

Windows can be a significant source of heat loss. Consider installing double-glazed windows or using thermal curtains to keep the warmth inside. Adding window film or insulation kits can also help improve window efficiency.

4.Test Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With increased use of heating devices, it's crucial to ensure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Replace batteries and test the alarms regularly to keep your home and family safe.

5.Check Your Roof and Gutters

Winter can bring heavy rains, so it's essential to inspect your roof for any damaged or missing tiles. Clean your gutters and downpipes to prevent blockages that can lead to water damage. Ensure that water flows away from your home’s foundations.

6. Service Your Heating System

Before winter sets in, have your heating system serviced by a professional. This includes checking heaters, radiators, and reverse cycle air conditioners. Regular maintenance ensures your system operates efficiently and reduces the risk of breakdowns during the colder months.

7. Protect Against Coastal Weather

Homes in Hillarys and Burns Beach are exposed to salty air and coastal winds, which can accelerate wear and tear. Inspect and maintain outdoor furniture, window frames, and doors to prevent rust and corrosion. Applying a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint can also help protect your home from the elements.

8. Energy-Efficient Lighting

With shorter days and longer nights, you'll use more lighting during winter. Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce your electricity bill. These bulbs use less energy and have a longer lifespan than traditional incandescent bulbs.

9. Install RCDs (Residual Current Devices)

RCDs can protect you from electrical hazards. Ensure that your home is fitted with RCDs and test them regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly.

10. Keep sliding doors moving

In winter, a drop in humidity levels can cause wood to move or expand. In turn, this can cause your sliding door to get stuck in its tracks.

To get it sliding smoothly again, remove any grime and dust on both sides of the tracks with a dry scrubbing brush, vacuum up the dislodged dirt, then apply a multi-purpose oil like WD40 to the tracks.

11. Check chimneys and flues

If you use a wood heater or fireplace, check the chimney or flue for cracks or gaps through which embers can escape.

Outside your home, make sure there are no overhanging branches near the chimney.

Build-up of residue inside chimneys and flues can block them and is combustible so consider using an additive with your fire to help clear this.

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By taking these proactive steps, homeowners in Perth can ensure their homes are well-prepared for winter. Not only will these tips help keep your home warm and cosy, but they will also improve energy efficiency and prevent potential damage, saving you money in the long run. For more personalised advice and assistance with preparing your home for winter, feel free to contact the team at Noble Avenue Real Estate.

Contact Us:

Phone: (08) 9307 1280
Email: admin@nobleavenue.com.au
Address: 2/46 Angove Drive, Hillarys WA

Noble Avenue Real Estate is committed to helping you maintain and enhance your home. Our team is always available to provide guidance and support for all your real estate needs in Hillarys, Carine, Iluka, Burns Beach, and surrounding areas.

For more detailed tips and professional advice, reach out to our team today.