Winterizing Your Ottawa Home: A Simplified Guide for Snowbirds

Wintering in a warmer climate is a long-standing tradition for many of Ottawa's residents. But before you switch your boots for flip-flops, it's crucial to winterize your home adequately. This guide offers a streamlined approach, incorporating insights from Ottawa Home Services, for safeguarding your home during your winter absence. For those interested in a hands-free experience, we'll conclude with an option for professional property management services through RentSetGo Property Management.

1. Drain Water Systems and Turn Off Water Supply

Winter in Ottawa can be harsh on your plumbing. Drain the water heater, pipes, and hoses to prevent freezing and potential water damage. Consider turning off the water supply and using antifreeze in toilets and drains.

2. Seal Gaps and Insulate

Conduct a thorough inspection of your home's exterior to seal any gaps or cracks, especially around windows and doors. Insulate exposed pipes in your home with foam insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing, as recommended by Ottawa Home Services.

3. HVAC System Maintenance

Before your departure, ensure your furnace is in good condition. Replace the air filter, check for leaks, and set the thermostat to a temperature between 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the home warm enough to avoid freezing but also save on energy costs.

4. Install Security Measures

An empty Ottawa home can attract unwanted attention. Invest in a quality security system with remote monitoring capabilities. Use timers to simulate an occupied home by controlling lights, and securely lock all windows and doors.

5. Forward Mail and Pause Services

An overflowing mailbox is a clear signal that your home is unoccupied. Forward your mail and pause any newspaper subscriptions. Similarly, you might want to put a temporary hold on other delivery services.

6. Snow Removal Arrangements

Ottawa’s municipal laws require snow removal from your property. Contract a snow removal service to maintain your driveway and sidewalks in compliance with local regulations.

7. Emergency Contacts and Walkthrough

Before leaving, give a trusted friend or neighbor a set of keys and alarm codes. You can also hire a property management company to complete walkthroughs of the property while you are away. Do a final walkthrough to confirm all windows are locked, water faucets are off, and all appliances are unplugged. This is the perfect time to validate that you haven't missed any winterizing steps.

In Summary

Safeguarding your Ottawa home before winter getaways doesn't have to be complicated. This seven-step guide is designed to cover all the essentials, incorporating expert advice from Ottawa Home Services. Ensuring your home’s safety while you're away will allow you to fully enjoy your winter retreat.

For those interested in a full-service solution, consider contacting RentSetGo Property Management. Specialized in maintaining homes throughout the Ottawa winters, they offer comprehensive property management services tailored to meet your needs. Reach out to make your next vacation truly worry-free.

Enjoy your winter escape, away from Ottawa's icy grip!