WINTER PREPARATION
Helping You Maintain Comfort and Peace of Mind During Alberta Winters
As temperatures drop, a few simple steps can help prevent freeze damage and keep your home’s heating system running efficiently. Two key items to address early are irrigation systems and furnace filters.
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
(Shut Off and Drain Before Freezing)
Water left in outdoor irrigation lines can freeze, expand, and crack pipes, valves, and fittings. Preparing your system before the first hard freeze helps avoid costly repairs in spring.
What to do:
- Shut off the water supply to the irrigation system (often inside the house or in the mechanical room).
- Drain exterior lines by opening drain valves and/or bleeding off water at the lowest points.
- Turn off and drain outdoor taps/hoses connected to irrigation components. Disconnect hoses and store them.
- Blow out the irrigation system (highly recommended): Many homeowners hire an irrigation contractor to use compressed air to clear remaining water from the lines and sprinkler heads. This is especially helpful in Alberta, where early freezes and deep cold snaps are common.
Why it matters: Even small amounts of trapped water can freeze and split components, leading to leaks you may not notice until spring.
FURNACE FILTERS
(Comfort, Airflow, and System Protection)
A clean furnace filter helps your system move air properly. When filters are clogged, airflow drops, the furnace works harder, and you may see uneven temperatures, reduced comfort, or unnecessary wear.
Best practices:
- Inspect filters regularly during heating season and replace when dirty (often every 1–3 months, depending on pets, dust, and how often the furnace runs).
- Use MERV 8 filters for a strong balance of filtration and airflow. MERV 8 filters can help improve indoor air quality while still allowing good ventilation through the system.
- Install the filter correctly: Make sure it fits snugly and the airflow arrow points the right direction.
- Keep supply and return vents clear: Avoid blocking registers with furniture or rugs so the furnace can circulate air efficiently.
Benefits of staying on top of filters:
- More consistent heat and better comfort
- Improved ventilation and cleaner air
- Reduced strain on the furnace and fewer performance issues
- Potentially longer furnace life due to steadier airflow