How Do I Prevent Plumbing and Furnace Issues in My Calgary Home?

• Check Your Mechanical Room: Make it a habit to inspect your furnace and hot water tank regularly. Look for signs of leaks, rust, or unusual noises. Calgary’s fluctuating temperatures can put extra strain on these systems, so early detection is key.

• Install Leak Monitoring Systems: Smart water leak detectors can alert you to potential plumbing issues before they become major problems. These devices are especially useful during Calgary’s harsh winters when frozen pipes are a common issue.

Before heading out of town, turn off the main water supply to your home. This simple step can prevent catastrophic water damage in case of a leak while you’re away. Notify your insurance company as well, as this may reduce your premiums or liability. Calgary’s cold climate makes this even more critical, as frozen pipes can burst and cause significant damage.

Calgary’s hard water is notorious for causing mineral buildup in pipes and appliances. Installing a water softener (costing between $1,500and$2,500) can extend the life of your washing machine, dishwasher, and hot water tank. It also improves water quality and reduces wear and tear on your plumbing system, which is especially important in a city with such hard water.

• Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Before winter hits, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses to prevent frozen pipes. Calgary’s freezing temperatures can cause water in hoses and pipes to expand, leading to cracks or bursts.

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Protect pipes in unheated areas (like basements or garages) with insulation to avoid freezing during cold snaps. This is a must in Calgary, where winter temperatures can drop well below freezing.

• Furnace Maintenance: Have your furnace serviced annually to ensure it’s running efficiently and to catch potential issues early. Replace filters regularly and clean vents to maintain airflow. Calgary’s long, cold winters mean your furnace works overtime, so keeping it in top shape is crucial.

• Hot Water Tank Maintenance: Flush your hot water tank annually to remove sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and lead to premature failure. This is especially important in Calgary, where hard water accelerates sediment accumulation.

While some tasks, like replacing furnace filters or disconnecting hoses, can be done yourself, others require professional expertise. Hiring a licensed plumber or HVAC technician for annual tune-ups ensures your systems are in top condition and can help you avoid emergencies. Calgary’s climate demands reliable systems, so don’t skip professional maintenance.

If your furnace or hot water tank is nearing the end of its lifespan (typically 10–15 years for furnaces and 7–10 years for hot water tanks), consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model. While the upfront cost may be high, the long-term savings and reliability are worth it, especially in Calgary’s extreme weather conditions.ip professional maintenance.