Ah, Alberta winters—a mix of breathtaking beauty and bone-chilling cold. From icy winds to heavy snowfall, our homes face a unique set of challenges every year. But with the right preparation, you can ensure your home weathers the season like a champ. This step-by-step guide will help your home thrive even through the harshest Alberta winter storms.
So, put on your favorite playlists, sip on a warm coffee, and let's tackle the list one step at a time. Before you know it, your home will be winter-proofed, and you’ll have peace of mind to enjoy the season’s perks. Let's get started:
Humidifier TLC for That Dry Alberta Air
If you’ve lived through an Alberta winter, you know how dry it gets. Your humidifier is your secret weapon against static shocks, dry skin, and parched air. Give it a good clean so it can work its magic all season long.
Test CO and Smoke Detectors
With the furnace running full blast and fireplaces roaring, winter is when CO (carbon monoxide) and smoke detectors matter most. Swap the batteries, hit the test button, and rest easy knowing your family is protected.
Clean Range Hood Filters
Those hearty soups and roasts may warm you up, but they also leave grease buildup in your range hood. Cleaning the filters not only improves air circulation but also reduces fire risk—a win-win for winter cooking marathons.
Grout Sealing—Protect Against Snow Melt!
Between snowy boots and wet floors, winter can be tough on your home’s grout. Applying grout sealer every couple of years adds an extra layer of protection, especially in high-traffic areas.
Keep an Eye Out for Ice Dams
Snow-covered rooftops might look postcard-perfect, but ice dams are a hidden menace. They trap water and can cause leaks. In Alberta, where temperature swings are common, keeping an eye on your roof is a must.
Prevent Basement Odors with a Quick Drain Check
Alberta’s dry winter air and constant furnace use can cause water in your basement floor drain to evaporate, leaving the trap dry and letting sewer odors seep in—not ideal during a family movie night. Pour a bucket of water into the drain to keep it functioning properly.
Sump Pump Readiness
Between chinooks and unexpected thaws, Alberta winters are unpredictable. If you have a sump pump, test it to make sure it’s ready for any basement water emergencies.
Replace Your Furnace Filter
Your furnace is the unsung hero of the winter season. Help it run efficiently and keep your energy bills in check by swapping out the filter regularly. Bonus: it improves your indoor air quality, too.
Inspect Your Roof (Without Freezing)
Skip the ladder and use binoculars—or hire a pro—to scan your roof for loose shingles or damage after heavy snowfalls. Alberta winters are tough on roofs, so catching issues early on is key.
Find the Right Humidity Balance
Too much humidity fogs up your windows, and too little leaves you feeling like a raisin. Alberta winters demand a sweet spot—around 40% is just right for your comfort and health.
Check for Moisture in the Basement
Alberta’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause sneaky leaks in your basement or crawl space. A quick check for water or damp spots can prevent bigger issues later.
Living in Alberta means embracing the extremes: freezing blizzards, chinook winds, and everything in between. Your home is your sanctuary, and a little winter maintenance ensures it stays that way—comfortable, efficient, and ready for whatever the season throws at it.
Take care of your home now, and it will take care of you all winter long. Happy Alberta wintering!
