Outside
#1) Check outside lights
Inspect the outdoor lights and replace burnt-out bulbs, broken fixtures or problematic sensors. As Canadians, we tend to hibernate in the winter, but it's important to replace outside bulbs for safety, not just aesthetics.
#2) Don’t rush to turn the outside water on.
One day it’s above zero, the next you’re back in freezing temperatures. That freeze-thaw cycle can lead to water and frozen water in your pipes that can expand and burst pipes. Sometimes pipes near the exterior wall that are poorly insulated are more likely to freeze. After a dump of spring snow, turning off the outside water might be overlooked.
Consider having a frost-free outdoor faucet installed to prevent freezing pipes in your outdoor water line.
#3) Check eaves, gutters and downspouts.
Inspect your eaves and downspouts for damage. Ensure downspouts are pointed away from the house, and eave gutters are clear of debris.
The water table below your house can rise as the snow melts quickly. Protect your home by directing melting water and spring rain away from your foundation.
Repair and ensure everything is in working order before a big melt.
#4) If you have AC, test it early in the season.
Before hot weather comes, test your air conditioning. Your condenser sits on the outside of your home, and often gets dusty, dirty and can trap garbage and leaves inside the unit itself.
You can carefully use a leaf blower or a low-pressure hose to spray dust and debris.
Be careful! The tiny fins are easily damaged by bending. Fins bent out of place cause extra stress on your AC and reduce efficiency.
We recommend an annual AC inspection and cleaning to extend the life of your AC unit and catch small problems before they become major problems.
Utility Room
#5) Change your furnace filter.
We are coming into allergy season. It’s critical to change your filter more often in seasons when the furnace is used frequently. In Alberta, your furnace is working hard from fall to spring.
Changing your filter will not only keep the air cleaner but also keep your furnace cleaner and may help extend its life.
#6) Check the humidifier filter.
The humidifier attached to your furnace helps manage humidity in your home. Most furnace humidifiers have a filter (water panel).
If you have hard water, you may need to replace the filter more frequently, but typically it should be replaced yearly.
#7) Drain your water tank.
Drain your water tank every 6–12 months to remove sediment. This helps improve efficiency and extend the life of your tank.
#8) Check the anode rod in the water heater.
The anode rod protects your tank from corrosion by attracting corrosive elements in the water. Replacing it when needed can extend the life of your water heater.
#9) Check Water Softener
Check the salt level on your water softener if you have one. It helps reduce mineral buildup and extend appliance life.
#10) Inspect your breaker panel
Use your senses:
Touch: Warmth can indicate a problem.
Listen: Buzzing or crackling sounds may indicate an issue.
Smell: Burning or melting smells are serious warning signs.
Look: Check for discoloration, burn marks, or damaged wires.
#11) Clear and clean your utility room.
Dust and clutter can restrict airflow and affect furnace performance. Keep at least 3 feet of clearance around your furnace, electrical panel, and water heater.
#12) Check your sump pump
Test your sump pump by pouring water into the pit. If it doesn’t activate properly, it may need servicing.
#13) Inspect the main water shutoff valve
Make sure your main water valve is accessible and working properly. Knowing how to shut off your water can prevent major damage during an emergency.
Home
#14) Inspect windows for condensation
Condensation can lead to mold growth. Reduce humidity and dry affected areas promptly.
#15) Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Test detectors and replace batteries every six months to ensure your home is protected.
#16) Check for faucet leaks
Inspect under sinks and around fixtures. Catching leaks early can prevent costly damage.
#17) Check for running toilets
Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
#18) Check bathroom fans
Ensure fans are working properly and run them for at least 25 minutes after showers to reduce moisture.
#19) Inspect main sewer line
Older homes or homes with past issues should consider a sewer camera inspection to prevent backups.
#20) Inspect Laundry Water Line Connections
Check hoses behind your washer for wear or leaks. Hot water lines are more prone to failure due to expansion and contraction.
Consider upgrading to braided stainless steel hoses to reduce the risk of bursting.