1. Ensure Proper Water Management and Drainage

Melting snow and spring rains place a heavy strain on drainage systems. A thorough inspection is essential to protect your foundation.

French drains and storm drains

Make sure the drainage outlets (often located in a ditch) are clear. If ice is blocking the pipe, it must be removed.

Note on iron-rich mud: If you notice orange-colored mud in the pipes, professional maintenance (gas-blowout cleaning) every two years is recommended to prevent blockages.

The sump pump

If your home has one, test it by manually lifting the float rod to activate the mechanism.

Gutters and downspouts

• Gutters: Clean the leaf guards and make sure the downspouts direct water away from the foundation. (Be careful to ensure your ladder is stable!)
• Drainage grates: Remove debris from the drain grate and inspect the window seals for leaks and cracks.

Roof and Attic

Inspect the condition of your roof and the interior of your attic annually. Make sure the weatherstripping around the access hatch is properly sealed, clean, and free of debris to ensure the thermal integrity of your home’s envelope.

Grounding

The soil near the foundation tends to settle over time. To prevent water from pooling against the building:

• Maintain a 10% slope over the first 6 feet (2 meters) around the house.
• Leave an 8-inch gap between the exterior siding and the finished ground.

2. Optimizing Ventilation and Air Quality

In an energy-efficient home, ventilation is the lifeblood of the house. Regular maintenance ensures maximum energy efficiency.

The Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV)

Before performing any work, turn off and unplug the unit.

• Remove the filters protecting the heat recovery core.
• Clean them with a vacuum cleaner, then with hot water and mild soap.
• Dry them completely before putting them back in place.

Exhaust vents and exterior air intakes

Inspect the exhaust vents for the air exchanger, dryer, and range hood. Remove any dust, snow, or insects that could be blocking the mesh. A clear vent reduces energy consumption and extends the life of your motors.

The kitchen range hood

For effective cleaning of grease filters:

• Soak the filter in boiling water with 1/4 cup of baking soda (and a little dish soap).
• Let it sit for an hour, scrub with a non-abrasive brush, rinse, and dry.

3. Mechanical Systems and Safety

A few simple steps can help prevent major inconveniences.

• Floor drains (P-traps): Pour water into the drains in the mechanical room or laundry room to reactivate the water seal and prevent odors and gases from rising.
• Safety: Take advantage of the time change to replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Vacuum the detectors monthly.
• Heating: Spring is the ideal time to have your chimney swept. The deposits are dry and easier to remove than in the fall.
• Water Heater: Perform an annual preventive drain, especially if your water is hard or comes from a well. Caution: the water is scalding hot; refer to the manufacturer’s manual.

4. Septic System and Water Softener

If your property has a septic system, exercise caution with antibacterial cleaning products, as they can harm the system’s bacterial flora. For more information, we invite you to consult the Ministry of the Environment’s Guide to Best Practices.

Finally, for your water softener, check the salt level and replace the pre-filter cartridge according to the recommendations in your user manual.