Winter in Ontario can be harsh, with freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and icy conditions. Proper home maintenance during this season is critical to protect your investment, save on energy costs, and ensure your family stays warm and safe. Here’s a comprehensive winter home maintenance checklist to keep your home in top condition.
1. Store Firewood Safely
Firewood can be a magnet for pests and pose a fire hazard if stored too close to your home. Keep any firewood at least 20 feet away from your home’s foundation. This minimizes the risk of pests like termites or rodents finding their way indoors and reduces fire risks.
2. Familiarize Family Members with Gas and Appliance Valves
Emergencies can happen unexpectedly, especially in the winter months. Make sure responsible family members know the location and proper operation of:
The main gas valve.
Appliance valves (such as water heaters and furnaces).
In the event of a leak or malfunction, knowing how to shut off these systems can prevent damage or injury.
3. Test All GFCI Devices
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) are crucial for preventing electrical shocks, especially in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor circuits. Test all GFCI devices to ensure they’re working properly. A non-functioning GFCI can leave your home at risk for electrical hazards.
4. Inspect Caulking and Weatherstripping
Ontario winters can cause your energy bills to skyrocket if heat is escaping your home. To keep energy costs down:
Check caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors. If you feel a draft, reseal or replace them to prevent heat loss.
Inspect caulking in bathrooms, particularly around fixtures. Proper sealing prevents water from seeping into sub-flooring, which can lead to mold and structural issues.
5. Clean Your Dryer Exhaust and Kitchen Exhaust
Clothes Dryer: Over time, lint can build up in the dryer exhaust duct, damper, and under the dryer. A clogged exhaust increases the risk of fire and reduces efficiency. Clean these areas thoroughly.
Kitchen Exhaust Hood: Remove grease and debris from the kitchen hood and air filter to maintain proper airflow and reduce fire hazards.
Regular cleaning ensures these systems operate safely and efficiently.
6. Inspect Holiday Decorations for Electrical Safety
During the holiday season, decorative lights and displays are common. Ensure all electrical holiday decorations have tight connections and are free from damage like frayed wires or cracked plugs. Use outdoor-rated lights for exterior displays and avoid overloading circuits.
7. Additional Winter Home Maintenance Tips
To further prepare for Ontario’s winter challenges, consider these extra steps:
Check and Maintain Your Furnace
Schedule an annual furnace inspection to ensure it’s operating efficiently. Replace filters monthly during peak usage.
Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes can cause significant water damage. Insulate exposed pipes, and on extremely cold nights, allow a small trickle of water to flow to prevent freezing.
Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Heavy snow and ice can damage your roof. Remove snow buildup and clear gutters to prevent ice dams, which can cause leaks inside your home.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters running, carbon monoxide risks increase. Ensure all detectors are functioning and replace batteries as needed.
Why Professional Home Inspections Are Essential in Winter
A professional home inspection can help identify issues before they become costly problems. At Leppard Inspections, we offer:
Thermal imaging to detect hidden heat loss and moisture issues.
Comprehensive reports on your home’s condition.
Expert advice tailored to Ontario’s winter challenges.
Our specialized services ensure you can tackle winter with confidence, knowing your home is safe, efficient, and protected.
Helpful Resources
Winter home maintenance can seem daunting, but tackling these tasks proactively will save you time, money, and stress. Protect your home this winter with regular maintenance and the help of professionals like Leppard Inspections.
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