As the days grow shorter and the weather grows colder, it's crucial to prepare your home for the challenges winter brings.

Through adequate preparation, you can save extra money this winter on your utility bills and home maintenance.

Here are five essential tips and some government incentive programs to ensure your home is cozy, efficient, and protected during the winter season:

1. Insulate and Seal Your Home

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a warm and energy-efficient home during winter. Start by checking your attic, walls, and basement for adequate insulation. Assess the weatherstripping on doors and windows to prevent drafts as these are major areas of heating loss. Furthermore, if you notice moisture within the window panes, it may be signs the argon gas within the windows has dissipated and it's time for newer, energy efficient windows.

• Check attic insulation levels

• Seal gaps around windows and doors

• Assess windows and doors

• Consider adding insulation to the attic, if needed

TIP: There are a number of government programs that exist in partnership with Enbridge Gas that offer financial assistance with winter-proofing your home to ensure efficient heating. These programs can help cover the cost of new windows, insulation and even thermostats.

Learn more about the incentives available here:

• Home Efficiency Rebates

• Smart Thermostat Rebate

• Home Winterproofing Program (HWP)

2. Service Your Heating System

Do you remember the last time you serviced your HVAC system - whether that's changing the filter or having a professional inspection complete? A well-maintained furnace and clean ducts are crucial for efficient operation during the winter months. Be sure to schedule a professional inspection and servicing of your furnace or heat pump before the cold sets in. By staying proactive, it helps prevent unexpected breakdowns during the coldest days.

• Schedule annual HVAC maintenance

• Replace air filters

• Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better efficiency

  
  

3. Protect Your Plumbing

Frozen pipes can lead to costly damage. You'll want to insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and exterior walls. Be sure to turn off the water shutoff valve for outdoor taps and, most importantly, know where and how to shut off your main water line in case of an emergency.

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas

• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses

• Locate and mark your main water shut-off valve

  
  

4. Prepare Your Outdoor Spaces

Don't forget about the exterior of your home. Clean gutters to prevent ice dams, trim tree branches that could fall under the weight of snow, and store outdoor furniture. As an extra preventative measure, spray mouse and pest repellant around the foundation of your home and any nooks or crannies to prevent critters from seeking warmth within your garage, basement or other warm spaces. Lastly, dust off your snow removal equipment and stock up on salt and sand for walkways.

• Clean and inspect gutters and downspouts

• Trim overhanging tree branches

• Service snow blowers and stock up on supplies

  
  

5. Conduct a Home Safety Check

Winter is an ideal time to ensure your home safety systems are in order. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries if needed. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned if you use a wood burning fireplace. Create an emergency kit with essentials in case of power outages or severe weather.

• Test and maintain smoke and CO detectors

• Schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning

• Prepare an emergency kit with supplies

By following these five tips, you'll be well on your way to a safe, comfortable, and efficient home this winter. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in preventing costly repairs and ensuring peace of mind during the cold months ahead.

If you own one or more investment properties and don't have the time to make sure they're properly winterproofed, we might be able to help! Get in touch with us to learn more about our property management packages.