Winter in Calgary and Edmonton isn’t just cold — it’s a full-blown experience. Between chinooks, surprise snowfalls, and sub-arctic temperatures, you might be questioning your life choices. But us Albertans have the smart moves to get through tough winters.
Make sure your home is ready to handle anything winter throws at it. Here’s how to stay warm and worry-free this season.
1. Seal up your windows & doors
Draughty windows and doors let in cold air and drive up your heating bill. Gaps, cracks and energy escape routes also let your air-conditioned air out during the summer. If your energy bills seem high, it's possible that energy leakage is responsible.
Check for gaps or cracks around the frames. You can use weatherstripping or caulking to seal them up. For extra insulation, try adding plastic window film. It’s an easy DIY project that makes a big difference!
2. Clean your gutters
Once the leaves fall, your gutters can get clogged. If they're full of debris, water can freeze and cause damage. Grab a ladder and clean them out before the snow hits. While you’re up there, check for any leaks or loose areas.
Not big on ladders? Call in a Rümi pro to clear those gutters before the snow flies.
3. Tune up your furnace
Your furnace works hard in the winter. Make sure it's ready by having your furnace serviced before the cold sets in.
Change the filter regularly to keep the air flowing and your home warm. A dirty filter can reduce efficiency and cost you more money.
Furnace trouble? Troubleshoot your issues with this guide: Furnace Acting Up? Common Furnace Problems & Solutions. If you're in need of more than a simple DIY, call in the heating pros from Rümi.
4. Check your roof & attic
Snow and ice can be tough on your roof. Be proactive with inspection and maintenance to extend your roof's lifespan.
Inspect it for missing or damaged shingles. In your attic, look for any signs of leaks or mold. If you see any problems, get them fixed before winter. It’s much easier to deal with roof issues now than in the middle of a snowstorm.
5. Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors
With the furnace running and fireplaces roaring, the risk of carbon monoxide and house fires goes up. Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Replace the batteries and test each one. Safety first!
Tip: Install wired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors for better safety assurance. With a wired system, skip the batteries! Rest assured that your family will receive alerts during a fire or carbon monoxide emergency.
6. Protect your pipes
Frozen pipes are no joke — they can burst and cause major damage. Insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like your basement or garage. If the temperatures really drop, leave your taps dripping slightly to keep water moving.
7. Stock up on winter supplies
Before the snow piles up, make sure you’re ready. Stock up on essentials like snow shovels, ice melt and windshield scrapers. If you have a snow blower, give it a test run to make sure it's working properly.
8. Reverse your ceiling fans
It might sound odd, but reversing your ceiling fans helps push warm air down. Switch them to run clockwise at a low speed during the winter. This simple trick can help keep your home warmer and lower your heating bills.
Read: The Best Ceiling Fan Direction for Every Season
9. Get your chimney cleaned
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, get your chimney cleaned before you use it. Creosote buildup can cause chimney fires. It’s also a good time to inspect the chimney cap to make sure it’s in good shape and keeps out snow and critters.
10. Prepare for power outages
Winter storms can knock out power. Be ready with flashlights, batteries, and warm blankets. If you have a generator, check that it’s in working order. It’s also smart to have some extra food and water on hand, just in case.
Stay warm & cozy this winter
By following these tips, you can keep your home warm and safe during Calgary and Edmonton’s long winter. A little preparation can make a big difference. It is much easier than fixing a frozen pipe or a drafty window when it’s -20°C outside! Now, grab your to-do list and start before the snow flies!
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