It’s never too late, even with the snow flying, to ensure your eavestroughs are free of leaves, twigs, and autumn debris. Why it matters:

• Prevents ice dams
• Keeps meltwater flowing away from the home
• Reduces risk of overflow and siding/fascia damage

Tip: Do a mid-winter check if we get a thaw — sometimes debris shifts and needs a little encouragement.

Ontario winters and water lines are not friends. Turn off your outdoor taps from the interior shut-off valve, then open the exterior tap to ensure all remaining water drains out.

This prevents frozen pipes — and the far less fun sequel, burst pipes.

Your AC deserves a cozy winter nap.

• Turn off the power at the exterior shutoff box
• Gently brush off leaves and debris
• Cover the unit with a breathable cover (nothing waterproof — moisture should be able to escape)
• Ensure the cover is securely fastened so the wind doesn’t turn it into a parachute

Winter is prime furnace season. A clean filter keeps your home warm and your energy bills more reasonable.

How often?

• Every 1–3 months depending on pets, allergies, and general dust levels

A clogged filter forces your furnace to work harder — leading to inefficiency and potential mechanical issues.

Check around:

• Doors
• Windows
• Garage entry points

Any gaps or worn seals can let in cold air, leading to heat loss and higher utility costs.

Quick fix: Replace weatherstripping or apply fresh caulking where needed.

With heating systems running and windows closed, winter is the most important time to ensure your detectors are in perfect working order.

• Replace batteries
• Press the test button
• Confirm CO detectors are located near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances

Your townhome community may cover exterior snow removal — but it’s still wise to have essentials on hand:

• Ice melt
• A sturdy shovel
• Sand or grit for traction
• A mat at each entrance to protect flooring

If you are responsible for your walkway or driveway, make a plan before the real snow hits.

The patio season has retired for the year, and if you haven’t already:

• Clean and store garden tools
• Put away or cover outdoor furniture
• Protect BBQ components if not used in winter

Small steps that extend the life of your outdoor items

In a townhome community, some maintenance items may be covered by the condominium corporation — and others fall to the homeowner.

Take a moment to:

• Review your maintenance manual
• Check your warranty documents
• Confirm responsibilities for snow removal, landscaping, and exterior upkeep

Being proactive keeps everything smooth and avoids surprises.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Your home is more than just a structure — it’s part of your life, your family, your community, and your long-term investment.

A simple winter maintenance routine protects your home, boosts efficiency, and ensures you stay cozy all season long.