INSIDE

• Air Filters: Clean or replace air filters in HRV, furnace, hoodfan (do monthly or as needed)
• Air Vents: Ensure indoor air vents (HRV & forced air furnace supplies & returns) are clean and not blocked by dust, furnishings, drapes, etc. Air supply vents in the basement should be open.
• Humidifier: Turn on and clean humidifier and open humidifier damper, if you have a humidifier. Adjust settings to provide a RH of 30% or higher.
• Doors: Whenever possible, leave bedroom doors open to allow for better air circulation.
• Fireplace: If required, turn on pilot light for gas fireplace and clean glazing, if dirty. Follow instructions in fireplace manual.
• Furnace: Refer to furnace manual and carry out any required furnace maintenance. Run furnace fan throughout the year to provide ventilation for house.
• Hardwood Flooring: Winter is a critical time of year to closely monitor your indoor relative humidity with a suitable hygrometer. If the air is too dry, your floor will release it’s moisture. A low moisture content will damage your hardwood floor, leading to gapping, cracking, and squeaks.
• HRV: HRV’s draw outside air into the house. On cold, dry days, this is not desirable. The HRV control box is adjacent to the thermostat, where it can be switched off.
• Humidifier: If the air becomes too dry, turn on your humidifier, if you have a humidifier.
• Window Coverings: Keeping blinds and curtains open whenever possible exposes the glass to warm inside air, minimizing condensation.

OUTDOORS

• Attic Vents: Ensure roof louvers, vents and soffits are not blocked with snow. Ventilation is a critical factor in roof durability – air must be able to move through the attic.
• Ensure roof louvers, vents and soffits are not blocked. Ventilation is a critical factor in roof durability – air must be able to move through the attic. Check for damaged areas, nests, trees or vines blocking openings, etc.
• Shingles and Roofing: Remove excessive accumulations of snow and ice from the roof to avoid ice damming. Snow covered roof vents will not keep the attic properly ventilated.
• Concrete Floors: Avoid concrete erosion due to salt and deicing products that drip from vehicles and footwear.