6 Winter Maintenance Chores to Tackle This Fall

For most parts of Canada, at this time of year it’s inevitable that freezing temperatures, snow and ice are just over the horizon. Before the cold arrives, here are six things you should do to prepare your home for winter.

Clean Your Plumbing

Cooler temperatures put a strain on your plumbing system, so be proactive and prevent clogs or ice build-up by cleaning the drains of your sinks, tub, shower and dishwasher. If you have a sump pump, be sure to check and unclog any exterior drains too.

Check for Drafts

Inspect all windows, exterior doors and other openings in the walls, such as dryer vents and where gas and electrical lines enter the house. Seal any gaps where water could enter with exterior-grade caulking. Use interior caulking indoors to seal gaps around the inside of windows and any drafty spots along the baseboards.

Shut Off Garden Hoses

Turn off the water supply to your exterior faucet(s) and then open each to drain any remaining water. Drain any water from the hoses themselves before storing them for winter.

Change Your Furnace Filters

Before the heating season starts, change your furnace filter and stock up on replacements. You should also have the furnace inspected according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Inspect Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

You should test the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in your home monthly to ensure they’re working properly. Replace the backup batteries at least twice a year. These units also have expiry dates, so check those while you’re at it and replace them as needed.

Ward Off Mould

Cool and damp weather creates the perfect breeding ground for mould, so take steps to make sure it doesn’t take root in your house. Consider keeping a dehumidifier running in your basement regularly and check that air can circulate freely behind furniture and at the back of your closets, especially those on exterior walls.

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Find more tips on getting your home winter-ready at aviva.ca.

Source and Photos. (NC) www.newscanada.com