Winter Homeowner Checklist: Napa Valley

Winter in Napa Valley isn’t about blizzards—it’s about the moody morning fog, bare vineyards, and unpredictable rainstorms. While the pace slows down, the weather can dial up. Whether you are hunkering down for the season or prepping your property for a spring sale, this checklist will keep your home protected and efficient through the wet months.

1. Clear Gutters & Manage Drainage

Napa’s winter rains (atmospheric rivers) can be short but intense.

• Clear Debris: Clean out oak leaves and debris to prevent water from backing up under your shingles.

• Direct the Flow: Ensure downspouts angle water at least 5–10 feet away from your foundation. This is critical for hillside properties or homes in neighborhoods like Browns Valley and the Oxbow.

• Test Sump Pumps: If your home has a sump pump, test it now—don’t wait for a flood warning.

2. Protect Outdoor Plumbing & Pools

While deep freezes are rare, overnight frost is common in Carneros and Upvalley.

• Insulate Pipes: Cover exposed irrigation lines and hose bibs with foam protectors.

• Pool Care: If you have a pool, switch your pump to "freeze protection" mode or a winter run cycle to keep water circulating on cold nights.

• Drain Hoses: Disconnect garden hoses to prevent water from freezing inside the spigot.

3. Trim Trees & Clear Moss

Saturated ground plus heavy wind equals downed limbs.

• Pruning: Cut back overhanging branches before the wind picks up, especially in wooded areas like Angwin or Coombsville.

• Slippery Walkways: Napa’s damp, shady winters can lead to moss buildup on north-facing walkways. Power wash or treat these areas now to prevent a slip hazard for guests.

4. Rodent Exclusion

When the vineyards get cold and wet, field mice and other critters seek warmth indoors.

• Seal Entry Points: Check for gaps around dryer vents, crawl space openings, and garage doors. A gap the size of a dime is enough for a mouse to enter.

5. Optimize Indoor Efficiency

• Reverse Ceiling Fans: Set fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This pushes warm air trapped at the ceiling back down into the living space.

• HVAC & Chimney: Replace your filters and have your chimney professionally swept if you plan on frequent wood-burning fires.

• Dryer Vents: Winter is a high-use season for dryers. Ensure the vent is clear of lint to prevent fire risks.

6. Power Outage Readiness

Napa can experience power interruptions during high-wind events.

• The "Go-Kit": Stock fresh batteries, flashlights, and portable phone chargers.

• Manual Override: Make sure everyone in the house knows how to manually release the electric garage door—a common pain point during outages.

Winter Prep at a Glance

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