Maintenance

One Hour Do-It-Yourself Projects

Even if you don’t have a lot of time, there are numerous things you can do within an hour every season to make a difference in your home’s air quality.

Spring:

Vacuum regularly with an efficient vacuum cleaner.
Wash bedding and stuffed animals in hot water once a week.
Reduce clutter and get rid of unwanted materials to limit dust build-up.
Test your carbon monoxide detector and change the batteries.
Check your humidity level with a hygrometer to make sure it is between 30-50%.
Check dehumidifier and drain/clean if necessary.
Check eavestroughs and downspouts for loose pieces.
Air out your home by opening windows and doors to let in fresh air.

Summer:

Vacuum regularly with an efficient vacuum cleaner.
Wash bedding and stuffed animals in hot water once a week.
Test your carbon monoxide detector and change the batteries.
Monitor basement humidity and use a dehumidifier to maintain relative humidity lower than 50 per cent.
Clean your dehumidifier regularly.
Air out your home by opening windows and doors to let in fresh air.
Walk around your home and inspect the foundation walls for cracks or holes. Make a note of any cracks found and set aside a weekend to seal these up as soon as possible.

Fall:

Call your energy company or a qualified professional to make an appointment to have your furnace, wood or gas stove, fireplace, flue, and chimney checked to ensure they are all working properly.
Change or clean your furnace air filters – be sure this is done every 1-3 months during the heating season.
Set up your radon test kit for a minimum 3 month period during the fall/winter months.
Test your carbon monoxide detector and change the batteries.
Check to see that windows and doors close tightly, and replace weather stripping if needed.
Clean your dehumidifier before putting it away for the winter.
Check your humidity level with a hygrometer to make sure it is between 30-50%. If the humidity is below 30%, use a portable humidifier and make sure it is cleaned and emptied regularly and stop using it if humidity levels go above 50%.
Vacuum regularly with an efficient vacuum cleaner.
Wash bedding and stuffed animals in hot water once a week.

Winter:

Change or clean your furnace air filters – be sure this is done every 1-3 months during the heating season.
Set up your radon test kit for a minimum 3 month period during the winter months.
Test your carbon monoxide detector and change the batteries.
Monitor your home for excessive moisture – look for condensation on windows which shows too much moisture is found inside the home.
Check your humidity level with a hygrometer to make sure it is between 30-50%. If the humidity is below 30%, use a portable humidifier and make sure it is cleaned and emptied regularly and stop using it if humidity levels go above 50%.
Vacuum regularly with an efficient vacuum cleaner.
Wash bedding and stuffed animals in hot water once a week

Did You Know

Many people mistake carbon monoxide poisoning for the flu? Early symptoms include headaches, nausea and fatigue. Install carbon monoxide detectors to help keep your home safe.

Outside the Home

Chimney

Is the chimney on your roof maintained properly? Look for any items that may block airflow from getting in and out of the chimney, and make sure any screens are properly maintained to prevent pests from getting into your home.

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Eavestroughs and Downspouts

Are your eavestroughs and downspouts clear of debris and clutter? Items such as leaves or twigs can build up and clog your eavestroughs and downspouts, leading to potential flooding that can occur inside your home.

Trees and Plants

Do you have trees and plants around your home? We all know trees and plants help improve air quality, but there are things to keep in mind when vegetation surrounds your home.

Cracks and Holes

Do you see cracks or holes in the outer walls of your home or around doors and windows? Cracks allow moisture, radon, heat, cold, or pests to enter your home, so make sure they are repaired right away.

Barbeques and Fire Pits

Do you have barbeques and/or fire pits in your backyard, patio, or deck? Be a good neighbour by ensuring these devices are being used properly and not causing breathing problems and loss of enjoyment to those around you.