Winter in Mallorca is mild compared to continental Europe (10-16°C), but ambient humidity (60-80%) and occasional intense rains require specific preparation. This practical guide helps you condition your villa to enjoy Mediterranean winter with comfort and without dampness problems.
Mallorcan winter: what to expect
Typical climate (December-February)
- Temperature: 10-16°C day, 5-10°C night
- Rain: 200-300 mm between Oct-March (concentrated in intense episodes)
- Relative humidity: 65-80% (feels colder)
- Wind: Frequent tramontana (north, cold and dry)
- Sunny days: ~60% of winter (better than northern Europe)
Dampness prevention
Ventilation: fundamental key
- Cross ventilation: 15-20 min daily even in winter
- Best time: Midday (11:00-14:00h), drier air
- Critical zones: Bathrooms, kitchen, bedrooms (generate more humidity)
- Avoid: Ventilating when raining (increases indoor humidity)
Dehumidifiers
- Where to place: Main bedrooms, areas without natural ventilation
- Capacity: 20-30 liters/day for 30-40 m² room
- Equipment cost: €200-400 per dehumidifier
- Electric consumption: 300-500 W (6-8h/day = €50-80/month)
Efficient heating
Options by property type
Aerothermal (most efficient)
- Investment: €12,000-20,000 (complete installation 200 m² villa)
- Consumption: €300-500/month (moderate use 4 months)
- Advantages: COP 3-4 (produces 3-4 kW per 1 kW consumed)
- Disadvantage: High initial investment
Ducted heat pump
- Investment: €8,000-15,000
- Consumption: €400-700/month
- Advantages: Summer + winter HVAC, homogeneous distribution
Low consumption electric radiators
- Investment: €150-300/radiator (10-12 needed)
- Consumption: €500-900/month (less efficient than aerothermal)
- Advantages: Low investment, simple installation
Pre-winter preparations
Technical review (October-November)
- ✓ Clean gutters and downspouts (leaves block, flooding)
- ✓ Check roof: loose tiles, waterproofing
- ✓ Seal windows and doors (deteriorated weather stripping)
- ✓ Bleed radiators (if water heating)
- ✓ Check chimney: professional sweep
- ✓ Verify pool cover insulation
Preventive purchases
- Firewood/pellets (minimum 2 months stock)
- Dehumidifier salt
- Electric thermal blankets (beds)
- Candles and flashlights (occasional power cuts from storms)
Routines during winter
Daily
- Ventilate 15-20 min at noon
- Empty dehumidifiers
- Maintain minimum temperature 16-18°C (prevents condensation)
Weekly
- Check mold-prone areas (bathrooms, exterior closets)
- Clean heating filters
- Check absence of leaks after rains
If house will be empty in winter
Preparation for long absence
- Minimum heating: Leave thermostat at 12-14°C (prevents dampness)
- Close main water: Drain exterior pipes (freezing rare but possible)
- Disconnect appliances: Except fridge and heating
- Blinds: Semi-lowered (air circulates, doesn't look abandoned)
- Surveillance service: Weekly visit to verify status (€150-250/month)
Winter energy costs
200 m² villa (4 months/year use)
- Aerothermal: €1,200-2,000
- Electric radiators: €2,000-3,600
- Natural gas (if available): €800-1,500
- Biomass fireplace: €800-1,200
Improvements making difference
Insulation (ROI investment 7-10 years)
- SATE facade: €60-90/m² (30-40% heating savings)
- Double glazing windows: 50% thermal loss reduction
- Roof insulation: €30-50/m²
Conclusion: winter is also beautiful
Winter in Mallorca offers a more authentic and quiet island. With proper preparation (ventilation, efficient heating, dampness prevention), your villa will be as comfortable as in summer. And you'll enjoy Alcudia almost exclusively, without tourists.
Interested in Alcudia Luz?
Alcudia Luz includes high quality insulation and efficient systems for year-round comfort.