Even though winters on the Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida are much milder than in most of Europe, doing a quick seasonal home check before the colder months can save you from surprises, extend the life of your home systems, and keep your property in perfect condition all year round.

The best part? These are simple steps many homeowners don’t even know they should check. Here’s a winter checklist designed for both full-time residents and second-home owners.

Boiler and water heater check: first priority

Even if you don’t use heating much, your boiler and water heater work harder in winter, especially for hot water.

You should:

• Check pressure and bleed radiators (if you have them).
• Make sure the flame is steady and not yellow.
• Clean filters and air outlets.
• Check for small leaks (the most common ones are almost invisible).

Pro tip:
Boilers and electric heaters lose efficiency when limescale builds up inside — something very common in areas like Vega Baja and Mar Menor due to hard water.
An annual inspection reduces energy use and helps avoid costly repairs.

Insulation: even in the Mediterranean, it matters

It’s not just for cold climates. In coastal homes or humid areas, good insulation:

• Prevents heat loss,
• Lowers electricity consumption,
• And avoids internal condensation.

Check especially:

• Windows (rubber seals, frames, locks),
• Exterior doors,
• Roofs and terraces,
• Shutter boxes (another common entry point for cold air).

Useful tip:
Sun exposure in the Mediterranean hardens window seals faster than in colder climates.
Replacing them every few years avoids drafts and unnecessary heat loss.

Humidity: the silent winter enemy

We may not have snow, but we definitely have humidity — especially near the coast.
That moisture can cause:

• Stains on walls,
• Musty odors in closets,
• A colder indoor feeling,
• And damage to furniture or textiles.

Recommendations:

• Check upper corners and behind furniture.
• Use dehumidifiers in low-ventilated rooms.
• Ventilate at least 10 minutes a day (even if it’s cold).
• Inspect seals in bathrooms and kitchens.

Good to know:
Winter humidity often comes from micro-leaks in façades after rain. A simple visual check and resealing can prevent bigger issues later on.

Pre-winter maintenance: small details that matter

Here’s the often-overlooked part — and one that Munfort clients value the most.

✔ Gutters and downpipes:
Even a single storm can cause leaks if gutters are clogged with leaves.

✔ Mosquito screens and sliding windows:
If they stick, the tracks are likely full of summer sand or dust. Cleaning them ensures a better seal and reduces cold air entry.

✔ Outdoor plugs and electrical panels:
Humidity and electricity are a bad mix. Make sure everything is properly insulated.

✔ Terrace and rooftop sealing:
Old waterproofing tends to fail in winter.
A small investment now prevents costly interior dampness later.

✔ Basement or storage ventilation:
In coastal areas, these spots often trap moisture.
Open them occasionally and use a dehumidifier to avoid odors or mold.

Bathroom and kitchen joints

Small detail — big impact:

• Prevents leaks,
• Stops mold,
• Extends furniture lifespan.

Many foreign homeowners don’t know that Mediterranean silicone seals wear out faster due to sun exposure and natural ventilation.
Checking them once a year is a smart routine.

Appliance check

No need to dismantle anything:

• Clean air conditioner filters (especially if using heating mode).
• Check oven heating consistency.
• Inspect fridge seals — damaged ones waste energy.

Modern air conditioners often require an annual internal cleaning to avoid odors and maintain heating efficiency.

For second-home owners: extra checks

If you spend months away, these steps are essential:

• Shut off the water supply to avoid hidden leaks.
• Ventilate the property before leaving.
• Use programmable dehumidifiers.
• Check shutters and locks to avoid wind damage.
• Schedule a pre-winter inspection if you’re abroad.

Many owners thank us later for this advice — small issues caught early prevent expensive repairs.

In summary

Preparing your home for winter isn’t just for cold countries.
Here on the Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida, these small checks:

• Prevent surprises,
• Improve comfort,
• Save money,
• And preserve your property for the long term.