I think we can all agree that we have had an outstanding fall. The weather has been amazing, and we are all soaking up these last days of warm sunshine before the cold air arrives in full force! With that, it is important to ensure your home is ready, both inside and out, for the frigid temperatures. It’s always best to do maintenance early. This way, you avoid a major incident in the coldest weather. So, let’s discuss a few things you should do, inside your home, to get ready for winter.
Furnace first
Obviously, this is the most important aspect of your home during the long winter months! A well functioning furnace is key. The last thing you want is not having your furnace working properly when the temperature dips into those extreme lows we know all too well in Alberta. First, change your filter. This should be done every few months. If you have a permanent filter, be sure to give it a good wash. Next, clean your heat exchanger by giving it a good vacuum. You’ll also want to make sure everything is connected properly. If you aren’t sure what to look for, it’s a good idea to call in a professional to give your furnace a thorough inspection.
Check your batteries
One of the easiest, but most forgotten, tasks is ensuring your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries. It is a good idea to change out batteries in conjunction with the time change (which will happen Sunday, November 6). If these are hardwired, you will want to check that they are working properly and ensure the battery backup is current in case of a power outage. With your furnace running more, and your home being utilized more than in the summer, you want to protect the safety of those you love most.
Seal it up
One significant way you can keep heat inside of your home, and ensure energy is being preserved successfully, is to check all your doors and windows for drafts or leaks. We understand replacing your windows and doors is expensive and not necessarily a feasible solution. However, options such as rope caulk or shrink film are cost effective. If you do notice significant drafts from your windows, you may want to consider having a professional give you an estimate when spring arrives.
Check the water temperature
Nothing beats a warm shower or bath on a cold winter’s day. So, you want to make sure your hot water tank is running effectively. Ensure your tank and pipes are well insulated to avoid freezing. You will also want to investigate all vents and exhausts to check for anything that may cause blockages. Many people travel during the winter months, so you will want to check your flood stop system. These are installed near the water heater where a sensor is put into the water heater pan. If water begins to run, the system will shut off water supply.
We want everyone to stay warm and toasty this winter! Stay tuned for our blog in a couple of weeks when we will discuss tips for the outside of your home.