Edmonton HVAC & Home Systems Checklist
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Heating System Checklist
- Replace furnace filter (every 1–3 months)
Use MERV 8–11 rated filters for best Edmonton air quality results - Inspect furnace flame — should be steady blue, not yellow or flickering
A yellow flame can indicate a combustion problem — call a tech immediately - Test thermostat by switching to heat and raising 5°
If furnace doesn't respond within 2–3 minutes, it needs servicing - Check all vents and registers are open and unobstructed
Blocked vents reduce efficiency and can cause pressure problems - Inspect furnace exhaust/flue pipe for blockages or corrosion
Edmonton's heavy snowfall can block exterior exhaust vents - Listen for unusual noises: banging, squealing, or rattling
These are early warning signs of blower motor or heat exchanger issues - Schedule annual furnace tune-up with a certified HVAC tech
Alberta recommends annual servicing — required for most equipment warranties - Test carbon monoxide detector near furnace
Replace batteries and test alarm function every 6 months - Check heat pump for ice buildup or debris around the unit
Clear at least 18" of clearance around outdoor heat pump units - Inspect boiler pressure gauge — should read 12–15 PSI
Low pressure may indicate a leak; high pressure needs immediate attention
Cooling & Air Conditioning Checklist
- Clean or replace air conditioner filter before cooling season
A dirty AC filter makes the unit work harder and raises your energy bill - Clear debris (leaves, grass, dirt) from around outdoor AC unit
Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the condenser unit - Test AC before first hot day — run it for 15 minutes
Don't wait for July to find out it's not working — book a spring tune-up - Inspect refrigerant lines for ice buildup or damage
Ice on the lines usually means low refrigerant — requires a licensed tech - Check condensate drain line for clogs
A blocked drain line can cause water damage inside your home - Inspect and clean evaporator coils if accessible
Dirty coils reduce cooling efficiency by up to 30% - Test all supply and return vents for airflow balance
Some rooms significantly hotter than others? You may have duct issues - Consider UV air purifier or HRV system for indoor air quality
Edmonton's dry air and wildfire smoke season make IAQ systems worthwhile
Plumbing Checklist
- Check under all sinks for drips, moisture, or staining
Slow leaks cause mold and structural damage — catch them early - Test all faucets and showerheads for proper water pressure
Sudden pressure drop can indicate a pipe issue or failing pressure regulator - Inspect visible pipes in basement for corrosion or moisture
Older Edmonton homes may still have Poly-B piping — see tip below - Test sump pump by pouring water into the sump pit
Sump pump failure during spring thaw is one of the most common basement flood causes in Edmonton - Check water softener salt levels and refill if needed
Edmonton's water hardness averages 170–200 mg/L — a softener protects appliances - Run water in infrequently used drains to prevent trap evaporation
Evaporated P-traps allow sewer gas into your home - Inspect toilet bases and tank connections for leaks
A running toilet can waste 200 litres of water per day - Check outdoor hose bibs — turn off interior shut-off valve before winter
Frozen hose bibs are a leading cause of burst pipes in Edmonton winters - Test backflow prevention device if you have one
Annual testing is required for cross-connection control in most Edmonton properties - Inspect floor drain in utility room for debris buildup
Clear floor drains prevent backup during heavy rain or appliance overflow
Hot Water System Checklist
- Check water heater temperature — set to 49–60°C (120–140°F)
Too low risks Legionella bacteria; too high risks scalding and energy waste - Flush sediment from hot water tank (drain 1–2 gallons from bottom valve)
Sediment buildup reduces efficiency and shortens tank life — do this annually - Inspect anode rod (every 3–5 years) — replace if heavily corroded
The anode rod protects your tank from corrosion — its most important component - Check pressure relief valve — lift lever briefly to test function
A stuck relief valve is a serious safety hazard - Inspect hot water tank for rust staining, leaks, or corrosion around base
Rust on the outside often means corrosion has started inside - Check age of hot water tank — replace proactively after 10–12 years
Edmonton's hard water accelerates tank wear — don't wait for a flood to replace - Inspect tankless water heater inlet filter screen for debris
Tankless units require annual descaling in hard water areas like Edmonton - Test hot water pressure at multiple fixtures
Inconsistent pressure across the home may indicate a failing pressure regulator
Sewer & Drain Checklist
- Check all drains for slow drainage — early sign of partial blockage
Slow drains across multiple fixtures often indicate a main sewer line issue - Pour hot water down seldom-used drains monthly
Keeps grease from hardening and trap seals intact - Avoid putting fats, oils, grease, or wipes down drains
These are the #1 cause of residential sewer blockages in Edmonton - Have main sewer line camera inspected every 3–5 years
Tree root intrusion is common in older Edmonton neighbourhoods — catch it early - Check basement floor drain for debris and proper sealing
Floor drains should always have water in the trap to block sewer gas - Inspect sump pump discharge line — ensure it drains away from foundation
In spring, a blocked discharge is a top cause of basement flooding - Note any sewer odors in basement or bathrooms
Persistent sewer smell means a dry trap, cracked pipe, or failed wax seal
Edmonton Seasonal Maintenance Calendar
FALL (Sep–Oct)
WINTER (Nov–Feb)
SPRING (Mar–Apr)
SUMMER (Jun–Aug)
Furnace tune-up Replace furnace filter Close hose bibs Test CO detector Check sump pump
Monthly filter check Monitor pipe temps Check furnace flame Clear exhaust vents of snow Watch for ice dams
AC tune-up Flush water heater Test sump pump Open hose bibs Sewer camera inspection
AC filter check Clean condenser unit Check IAQ system Flush drains Service tankless unit
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