By Oliver's Services 
 • 
 November 25, 2024 
 
 Comox winters bring damp and chilly conditions that can affect your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. A little preparation now can save you time, money, and hassle later.                                                                                                                        Follow this comprehensive checklist to ensure your home is winter-ready:                                                                                                                                     1. Heating System Check                                                                   Schedule a furnace tune-up:                                                   Ensure your heating system is clean, efficient, and safe. Contact Oliver’s Services for professional maintenance.                                                                        Check filters:                                                   Replace furnace or heat pump filters to maintain airflow and efficiency.                                                                        Test thermostats:                                                   Confirm they work correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat.                                                                        Inspect your fireplace:                                                   For gas fireplaces, check pilot lights and valves; for wood-burning, ensure the chimney is clean and clear of obstructions.                                                                                                                                     2. Seal and Insulate                                                                   Inspect windows and doors:                                                   Replace weather stripping or caulking to block drafts.                                                                        Insulate pipes:                                                   Wrap pipes in unheated areas to prevent freezing.                                                                        Check attic insulation:                                                   Ensure it’s adequate to prevent heat loss and reduce energy costs.                                                                                                                                     3. Exterior Maintenance                                                                   Gutter cleaning:                                                   Remove leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and ensure proper drainage.                                                                        Check your roof:                                                   Look for loose or damaged shingles and repair them to avoid leaks.                                                                        Trim trees:                                                   Cut back branches near your home to reduce the risk of damage from winter storms.                                                                                                                                     4. Water System Prep                                                                   Drain outdoor faucets:                                                   Disconnect hoses and shut off exterior water to prevent frozen pipes.                                                                        Inspect sump pumps:                                                   Ensure they’re working properly to handle potential winter flooding.                                                                                                                                     5. Safety Essentials                                                                   Inspect smoke and CO detectors:                                                   Replace batteries and test devices.                                                                        Prepare for outages:                                                   Stock up on flashlights, batteries, and a backup heat source.                                                                        Clear walkways:                                                   Keep shovels, sand, or salt ready for icy conditions.                                                                                                                                     6. Optimize Energy Efficiency                                                                   Reverse ceiling fans:                                                   Set them to spin clockwise to push warm air down.                                                                        Check for drafts:                                                   Seal gaps in the foundation or basement for improved efficiency.                                                                                                                                     Need Help? Contact Oliver’s Services!                                                      Oliver’s Services offers HVAC maintenance, heating system repairs, and expert advice for winterizing your home in Comox. Stay cozy and worry-free this season—schedule your appointment today!                                                                   Visit                                              Oliver’s Services                                               or give us a call today:                                              1.866.734.6056