Is Your Home Winter Ready?

Cold weather is right around the corner. But, is your home ready to survive a Canadian winter? This 10-point checklist is sure to help.

1. Clean your air conditioner(s): It served you well all summer long, now it’s time for a break. So, wipe down the unit, clear debris from the surrounding area and hose it down. Once it’s completely dry, cover the air conditioner and turn off the water shutoff valve, if your system has one. Remove window units and store them indoors to prevent window drafts. If you can’t remove your window unit, close the vents and protect it from the elements with an air conditioner cover.

2. Drain your sprinkler system: You can either remove the water using the system’s drain valves or have a professional blow the water out with a large air compressor.

3. Turn off outdoor water supply: Make sure all exterior water spigots are turned off and all attached hoses or other devices are removed, drained and properly stored.

4. Insulate pipes: This will help prevent your pipes from freezing and save money on your hot water bill. Insulate by duct-taping pre-slit pipe foam (available at hardware stores) around exposed pipes in your home’s crawl space or attic.

5. Caulk air leaks around doors and windows.

6. Add more insulation if needed. If you can see the ceiling joists in your attic, you may need more insulation.

7. Test your thermostat. Turn it into heat mode to make sure the furnace kicks on and blows warm air.

8. Have the furnace inspected by a professional. Make sure it’s in good shape to last through the winter.

9. Inspect and clean your roof and gutters.

10. Install storm windows and doors.