AS PER SCHL
Timing of the seasons varies not only from one area of
Canada
to another but also
from year to year in a given area. For this reason, we
have not identified the months for
each season. The maintenance schedule presented here
is, instead, a general guide for you to follow. The actual timing is left for
you to decide, and you may want to further divide the list of items for each
season into months.
SPRING
MAINTENANCE
o After
consulting your hot water tank owner’s manual, carefully test the temperature
and pressure relief valve to ensure it is not stuck. Caution: This test may release hot water that can
cause burns.
o Check
and clean or replace furnace air filters each month during the heating season.
Ventilation system, such as heat recovery
ventilator, filters should be checked every two months.
o Have
fireplace or wood stove and chimney cleaned and serviced as needed.
o Shut
down, drain and clean furnace humidifier, and close the furnace humidifier
damper on units with central air
conditioning.
o Switch
on power to air conditioning and check system. Have it serviced every two
or three years.
o Clean
or replace air-conditioning filter, if applicable.
o Check
dehumidifier and drain —clean if necessary.
o Turn
OFF gas furnace and fireplace pilot lights where possible.
o Have
well water tested for quality. It is recommended that you test for bacteria
every six months.
o Check
smoke, carbon monoxide and security alarms, and replace batteries.
o Clean
windows, screens and hardware, and replace storm windows with screens. Check
screens first and repair or replace if needed.
o Open
valve to outside hose connection after all danger of frost has passed.
o Examine
the foundation walls for cracks, leaks or signs of moisture, and repair as
required.
o Ensure
sump pump is operating properly before the spring thaw sets in. Ensure
discharge pipe is connected and allows water to drain away from the foundation.
o Re-level
any exterior steps or decks that moved as a result of frost or settling.
o Check
for and seal off any holes in exterior cladding that could be an entry point
for small pests, such as bats and squirrels.
o Check
eavestroughs and downspouts for loose joints and secure attachment to your
home, clear any obstructions, and ensure
water flows away from your foundation.
o Clear
all drainage ditches and culverts of debris.
o Repair
and paint fences as necessary—allow wood fences to dry adequately before
tackling this task.
o Undertake
spring landscape maintenance and, if necessary, fertilize young trees.