Heating and cooling
Check the air vents are not blocked by leaves or debris
Every year, in October.
What to do
Walk the outside of the house and clear the intake and exhaust terminals. Then check the indoor supply and return grilles are not behind furniture.
Why it matters
A blocked combustion intake makes a fuel-burning appliance backdraft, which puts exhaust gas into the house rather than outside it. This is the one on the list that can kill you.
What to look for
- Leaves and grass clippings packed against the sidewall intake and exhaust, usually a white plastic pair low on a wall
- Dryer and range hood terminals held shut by lint or debris behind the flap
- Shrubs or a fence grown in close enough to cut off the air
- Rugs or furniture over a cold air return inside
Where this comes from
Habitat Studio p.25 — "this air supply must not be blocked as dangerous back drafting conditions can occur" — and CMHC CE 47, which lists it as year-round. Moved to the autumn pass and reworded away from snow: drifted snow returns the same night, which is not something a yearly task can hold.
Catch it while it’s still maintenance.
Domisura keeps this schedule for your house — dated to when things went in, and reminding you when each task comes round. The record stays with the address when you sell.
Start a record for your homeGeneral guidance, not professional advice. For gas, electricity, structure or water, get a qualified trade.