MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

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1. **Inspect HVAC Filters:** Check and replace HVAC filters if dirty or clogged to maintain optimal efficiency.  Especially if you are in a home with smokers and pets. This will help keep the air quality at a healthy level.

2. **Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms:** Ensure proper functioning and replace batteries if needed. A very important aspect of your homes essential safety features. 

3. **Check Plumbing for Leaks:** Inspect faucets, toilets, and under sinks for any leaks or signs of water damage. 

4. **Inspect HRV Filter and Humidifier Filters :** Like your HVAC system, this ensures optimal performance of all your mechanical delivery systems.

5. **Test GFCI Outlets:** Press the "test" and "reset" buttons on Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets to ensure they're functioning correctly.   

6. **Inspect Exterior for Damage:** Check for any cracks in the foundation, damage to the siding, or issues with the roof. 

7. **Clean Gutters and Downspouts:** Remove debris to prevent clogging and ensure proper water drainage. 

8. **Check Seals on Windows and Doors:** Ensure weather stripping is intact to prevent air leaks. 

9. **Test Garage Door Opener:** Test the auto-reverse feature and lubricate moving parts as needed.  

10. **Inspect and Clean Chimney:** Have the chimney professionally inspected and cleaned, if necessary, before using the fireplace. 

11. **Service Water Heater:** Drain and flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup. 

12. **Inspect Attic and Basement/Crawl Space:** Look for signs of pests, moisture, or insulation issues. 

13. **Test Sump Pump (if applicable):** Pour water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates properly. 

14. **Schedule Roof Inspection:** Hire a professional to inspect the roof for any damage or necessary repairs. 

15. **Inspect Fireplace and Service/Clean** Ensure safe operations and clean out dangerous chemical buildup that can lead to housefires.

16. **Furnace Cleaning** This should be done once a year to ensure a healthy furnace year round. You can ask the furnace service company to replace your filters while they are performing their routine maintenance.

17. **Service or Inspect the Septic Tank (if applicable):** Have the septic tank pumped or inspected as per maintenance schedule. 

18. **Check Foundation and Basement for Water Damage:** Look for signs of water intrusion or foundation cracks. 

19. **Landscaping and Yard Maintenance:** Keep the yard tidy, mow the lawn, trim bushes, and water plants as needed. Ensure your grade is correct and all water flows away from your foundation and downspouts and left in their proper down position with the correct slope. 

20. **Pest Control:** Address any pest issues promptly to prevent infestations. 

21. **Repair or Replace Damaged or Worn Out Items:** Fix any broken fixtures, damaged flooring, or worn-out components.    

22. **Winter Maintenance** Ensure all exhaust vents for your furnace and hot water tank remain free from frost build up. If frost accumulates it can lead to blockage which can force your systems to shut down and not function do to inadequate air exchange. 

23. **Managing Moisture** After a shower, bath or homes with a steam shower, pool or hot tub ensure you have proper ventilation to remove excess moisture in your home. Moisture build up can cause many issues and can be easily avoided by running bath fans for at least 30 minutes after use. 

24. **Enclosed Showers** For homes that have fully enclosed showers, it is very important to leave the shower door open after use to allow for adequate airflow in and out of the shower. This will help reduce the chances of any mold growth inside your shower that can grow on your tile and grout. 

25. **Clean Out Your Central Vacuum Collector** Usually located in your garage or mechanical room, this collects all the waste that is picked up when vacuuming your home. Ensuring it is clean out allows for a proper functioning unit

26 ** Irrigation - Test Your Back Water Valve** Depending on your municipality, they may require a certified technician to ensure it working properly yearly - the City of Calgary does send out reminder notices each year.

27. **Irrigation Blow Out** Ensure this is done before winter sets in to avoid your irrigation water lines from freezing causing expensive and avoidable damage.

28. **Shut Off Exterior Hose Bibs** Exterior hose bibs can freeze just like your irrigation lines. turning them off from the mechanical room shut off valve can help avoid freezing water lines. 

29. **Replace Cracked Silicone** Silicone tends to shrink in crack in our varying climate. Replacing cracked silicone is essential to ensure vapor and water damage from occurring.