Preparing Your Kelowna Home for Winter: Essential Tips

Inspect Your Heating System

As winter approaches in Kelowna, ensuring your heating system is in top condition is a priority. Begin by scheduling a professional inspection to check your furnace or heat pump. A technician will clean and adjust the system, ensuring it operates efficiently throughout the cold months. Don’t forget to replace filters regularly to maintain air quality and system performance.

Consider upgrading your thermostat to a programmable model. This can help you control the heating schedule, saving energy and reducing costs. By setting lower temperatures while you’re asleep or away, you can maximize efficiency.

Seal Windows and Doors

Preventing drafts is essential in keeping your home warm during winter. Inspect windows and doors for any gaps or cracks. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these areas, preventing cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. Proper sealing can significantly reduce energy bills and improve comfort.

Consider installing storm windows for an extra layer of insulation. If your budget allows, upgrading to double-glazed windows can offer even greater energy savings.

Prepare Your Plumbing

Frozen pipes can cause significant damage and inconvenience. To avoid this, ensure that all exposed pipes are insulated, especially those in unheated areas like basements and garages. Pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape can be used to protect vulnerable pipes.

It’s also a good idea to disconnect and drain garden hoses, shutting off outdoor faucets to prevent freezing. If you're planning to be away during the winter, keep the heating system on at a minimum temperature to prevent pipes from freezing.

Enhance Home Insulation

Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a warm and energy-efficient home. Check the insulation in your attic and walls, and consider adding more if necessary. Insulation helps retain heat, reducing the workload on your heating system and lowering energy costs.

Don’t overlook the basement and crawl spaces. Ensuring these areas are properly insulated will contribute to the overall warmth of your home. Insulation not only helps in winter but also keeps your home cool during the summer.

Check Your Roof and Gutters

Inspecting your roof for any missing or damaged shingles before winter sets in can prevent leaks and water damage. Ensure that your gutters are clean and free of debris to allow for proper drainage when snow melts. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, causing water to back up into your home.

Consider installing gutter guards to keep leaves and debris out, making maintenance easier throughout the year. Regularly checking and maintaining your roof and gutters will protect your home from winter weather-related issues.