Plumbing
Shut off and drain the exterior hose bibs
Every year, in October.
What to do
Disconnect the hoses, close the shut-off valve inside, then open the outside tap and leave it open so the pipe between them drains.
Why it matters
Water left in the exterior section freezes, expands and splits the pipe. You find out in April, inside the wall. A frost-free bib drains itself, but only if the hose is off.
Where this comes from
Habitat Studio p.22 and CMHC CE 47, which agree. Mid-October is the first hard freeze in Alberta; zone 4 is anchored to November, which is when the coast first sees one.
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.