By Josh Tagg, mortgage broker · Mortgages for Less with INDI Mortgage · Calgary, serving all of Alberta ·
As a mortgage broker, I often remind clients that buying a home is just the beginning of the journey. Protecting that investment is equally important—especially in Edmonton, where our winters can be harsh and unforgiving. Recently, I sat down with Jay Lewis of Lewis & Co Realty who recently spoke Travis from Alquin Homes about essential autumn home maintenance tips that every homeowner should keep in mind.
Furnace filter. Turn the furnace off at its on/off switch, check the filter size, and install the new one facing the right airflow direction.
HRV pre-filters. Follow the three-month and six-month instructions inside the unit: remove, rinse, and reinstall only once dry.
Humidifier. Switch the damper to the winter setting, clean the filter (for example with CLR) or replace it, and set the humidistat to around 15 to 20 percent.
Safety checks. Test the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and check the batteries in a programmable thermostat.
Why do furnace filters matter?
Travis kicked things off with a reminder about something that is often overlooked: the furnace filter.
“Before doing any maintenance on your furnace system, you should have a furnace on/off switch. Be sure to turn that off just to prevent any damage while working on your furnace system,” Travis explained. He went on to show how filters come in different sizes and pointed out the importance of checking the airflow direction when replacing one.
How do you maintain an HRV system?
For homes equipped with an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilation) system, regular cleaning is key. “Inside there are detailed instructions on both three-month and six-month maintenance,” Travis noted, demonstrating how to remove and clean pre-filters, rinse them, and reinstall them once dry. He stressed that failing to dry them properly in winter could lead to freeze-ups.
How should you set your humidifier for winter?
Travis also highlighted the importance of keeping a humidifier in good shape during winter. “Most humidifiers have a summer and winter setting, with a damper within that turns on and off,” he explained. Filters can be cleaned with products such as CLR or replaced altogether. He added that homeowners should set their humidistat to around 15 to 20 percent in colder months, adjusting as needed.
What safety checks should you do before winter?
Jay reminded viewers that safety should never be overlooked. “After you’ve done all the things that he’s just mentioned, make sure we check the smoke and the carbon monoxide detectors,” he said. Jay also suggested double-checking batteries in programmable thermostats to ensure you’re not left in the cold.
How does home maintenance protect your investment?
As he wrapped up, Jay reinforced the value of seeking help when needed. “If you have issues finding different types of filters or even remembering how to clean your HRV, reach out to me. Someone from our team can certainly help you. And if we can’t, we definitely know the people that can help you.”
For me, as a mortgage broker, these tips are about more than just maintenance—they’re about protecting your biggest investment. A well-cared-for home not only saves you money in the long run but also safeguards the equity you’ve built.
Is your home ready for the cold weather ahead?
At Mortgages for Less, my goal is to not just get you the right mortgage, but to help you feel confident in homeownership every step of the way. Winter preparation is one of those steps that pays off in comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
If you found these tips helpful, be sure to watch the full video on YouTube, hit like, and subscribe for more homeowner insights and mortgage advice.
How an Alberta mortgage broker helps you protect your home
Maintenance protects the house. The right mortgage protects your finances around it:
- Build upkeep and repair costs into what you can comfortably afford before you buy.
- Find out whether your equity can fund a bigger repair, like a new furnace or HRV.
- Review your mortgage at renewal so your payment still fits your budget.
- Shop multiple lenders, including when your bank has said no.
Buying or renewing in Edmonton?
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Apply Online → Book a Discovery Call → Serving Calgary, Edmonton & all of Alberta · Mortgages for Less with INDI MortgageQuestions about fall home maintenance
What fall maintenance should Edmonton homeowners do before winter?
How do you change a furnace filter safely?
How often should you clean an HRV?
Why do HRV filters need to be fully dry?
What humidity should you set in winter?
How does home maintenance relate to your mortgage?
This article was written in September 2025. It is general information for Alberta homeowners, not professional home-maintenance, financial, mortgage, tax or legal advice. Follow your equipment manufacturer’s instructions and use a qualified technician where needed. Rates, products and qualification rules vary by lender. Please speak with a licensed mortgage professional about your specific circumstances. Mortgages for Less with INDI Mortgage.
