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Check and clean or replace furnace air
filters each month during the heating season. Ventilation system, such
as heat recovery ventilator, filters should be checked every two months. |
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After consulting your hot water tank
owner’s manual, drain off a dishpan full of water from the clean-out
valve at the bottom of your hot water tank to control sediment and
maintain efficiency. |
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Clean humidifier two or three times during
the winter season. |
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Vacuum bathroom fan grille. |
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Vacuum fire and smoke detectors, as dust or
spider webs can prevent them from functioning. |
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Vacuum radiator grilles on back of
refrigerators and freezers, and empty and clean drip trays. |
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Check gauge on all fire extinguishers;
recharge or replace if necessary. |
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Check fire escape routes, door and window
locks and hardware, and lighting around outside of house; ensure family
has good security habits. |
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Check the basement floor drain to ensure
the trap contains water. Refill with water if necessary. |
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Monitor your home for excessive moisture
levels—for example, condensation on your windows, which can cause
significant damage over time and pose serious health problems—and take
corrective action. |
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Check all faucets for signs of dripping and
change washers as needed. Faucets requiring frequent replacement of
washers may be in need of repair. |
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If you have a plumbing fixture that is not
used frequently, such as a laundry tub or spare bathroom sink, tub or
shower stall, run some water briefly to keep water in the trap. |
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Clean drains in dishwasher, sinks, bathtubs
and shower stalls. |
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Test plumbing shut-off valves to ensure
they are working and to prevent them from seizing. |
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Examine windows and doors for ice
accumulation or cold air leaks. If found, make a note to repair or
replace in the spring. |
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Examine attic for frost accumulation. Check
roof for ice dams or icicles. If there is excessive frost or staining of
the underside of the roof, or ice dams on the roof surface, consult the
CMHC About Your House fact sheet Attic Venting, Attic Moisture and Ice
Dams for advice. |
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Check electrical cords, plugs and outlets
for all indoor and outdoor seasonal lights to ensure fire safety: if
worn, or plugs or cords feel warm to the touch, replace immediately. |
