As November sets in, it’s time to prepare your home for Ottawa’s frosty winter months. Seasonal maintenance isn’t just about protecting your investment—it’s about ensuring comfort and avoiding costly surprises. In this blog, we’ll dive into three essential tasks every homeowner should tackle in November: furnace maintenance to keep the cold at bay, draining exterior faucets to prevent freezing pipes, and cleaning gutters to safeguard your home from water damage. Follow these steps to winter-proof your home and enjoy peace of mind all season long.
1. Furnace Maintenance
Why It Matters:
Winters in Ottawa are harsh, and a well-maintained furnace ensures your home stays warm and energy-efficient. Neglecting maintenance can lead to breakdowns or costly repairs during the coldest months.
Action Steps:
Schedule a professional tune-up to clean and inspect the furnace. This helps identify issues before they escalate.
Replace or clean the air filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making the furnace work harder and driving up energy costs.
Test your thermostat to ensure it’s functioning properly and set a program that saves energy when you're out of the house.
Pro Tip:
Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat (like Nest or Ecobee) for better control over heating and long-term savings.
2. Draining Exterior Faucets
Why It Matters:
Ottawa’s freezing temperatures can cause water in exterior pipes to freeze and expand, leading to burst pipes and costly water damage.
Action Steps:
Shut off the water supply to exterior faucets using the indoor shut-off valve (often located in the basement).
Open the outdoor faucets to drain any residual water.
Disconnect and store hoses indoors to prevent cracking and preserve their lifespan.
Pro Tip:
Invest in insulated faucet covers for extra protection against freezing temperatures. They’re inexpensive and add a layer of security.
3. Cleaning Gutters
Why It Matters:
Fall leaves can clog gutters, leading to water backup, ice dams, and potential damage to your roof or siding. Clean gutters ensure proper water drainage during Ottawa’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Action Steps:
Use a sturdy ladder to access your gutters safely. Clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris by hand or with a gutter scoop.
Flush the gutters with a garden hose to ensure water flows freely through the downspouts.
Inspect for damage such as sagging sections, rust, or leaks, and address minor repairs immediately.
Pro Tip:
Consider installing gutter guards to reduce future maintenance.
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