Here in Winnipeg, we all know winter isn’t just a season — it’s a lifestyle. The cold winds, the snow, the chilliest mornings — we endure, adapt and, yes, even embrace it. That said, your home is getting a full-on test every year when the thermostat goes up and the mercury drops. At Dueck Builders, we believe in helping you weather the cold with confidence and ease. So whether you’re planning a future build, renovation or simply caring for your current home — here are five practical winter-maintenance tips to keep things cosy, safe and efficient for the long haul.
- Replace Your Furnace Filters Regularly
- When the furnace is running full-tilt for months on end, a clogged or dirty filter sabotages both comfort and cost control. Clean filters help your system operate efficiently, reduce strain, and improve indoor air quality.
Pro tip: Make it a habit to check your filter every other month; at a minimum, swap it out quarterly and especially at the start of winter.
- When the furnace is running full-tilt for months on end, a clogged or dirty filter sabotages both comfort and cost control. Clean filters help your system operate efficiently, reduce strain, and improve indoor air quality.
- Lower Your Water Heater Temperature & Insulate Hot-Water Pipes
- Many water heaters are factory-set around 140 °F (≈60 °C), but for typical household use you can safely drop it to around 120 °F (≈49 °C). That’s less wear on the unit and lower energy bills.
- Then go grab that foam pipe insulation from your local hardware store. Wrap your hot-water pipes (especially in unheated or semi-heated spaces) so the hot water actually reaches taps warm and ready — not cooled from the journey.
- Seal Drafts, Check Insulation & Protect Your Pipes
- Winnipeg winter air is ruthless. A house that leaks heat or leaves its pipes cold-prone is playing catch up all season.
- Inspect around windows, doors, – cracks, gaps, weather-stripping. A little caulk and weather-strip go a long way.
- Make sure unheated spaces (basement, attic, crawl) have adequate insulation and that any exposed pipes are covered. The City of Winnipeg recommends insulating pipes and shutting off outdoor faucets as part of winter prep. City of Winnipeg+1
- Bonus: Unsealed homes can lead to ice-dam risk on roofs when warm air escapes and re-freezes at the eaves.
- Clean Gutters, Check Roof & Ensure Safe Ventilation
- Snow and ice build-up is part of the Winnipeg package — but ignoring it invites leaks, ice dams, and expensive surprises.
- Clear out gutters and downspouts so melting snow can drain properly.
- Visually inspect (or hire a pro to inspect) your roof for damaged shingles or weak spots.
- Make sure exterior vents (dryer vents, exhausts) aren’t blocked by snow or ice.
- Create a Home-Comfort & Safety Routine (It’s More Than Just Turning Up the Heat)
- Winter comfort in Winnipeg isn’t just about cranking the thermostat. A few smarter habits go a long way:
- When you’re away (for work, errands, or weekends), set the heating schedule down a few degrees — you’ll save energy, and a good sweater goes a long way.
- Check your smoke & carbon-monoxide detectors. Running furnaces, fireplaces and portable heaters increase risk. The City of Winnipeg recommends this as part of winter readiness. City of Winnipeg
- Manage indoor humidity. Cold outdoor air holds less moisture, and too-dry indoor air makes rooms feel colder and damages woodwork.
- Finally: keep a list of trusted service professionals (furnace techs, plumbers, roofers) on hand. When winter hits full strength, you’ll want quick access.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Winter in Winnipeg may be long and sometimes fierce, but with a little prep, your home doesn’t have to be a battle zone. By tackling these five key tasks, you’ll not only boost comfort and efficiency — you’ll protect your investment and enjoy the season a bit more.
If you’re considering a renovation, upgrade or building a new home in Winnipeg that’s built to perform through our winters — reach out to us at Dueck Builders. We’re here to help you craft a home that’s not just ready for winter, but designed for it.
Stay warm, stay ahead — and here’s to turning those sub-zero mornings into cozy cup-of-coffee moments instead of maintenance headaches.