Preparing Your Home for Winter in Alberta: 2026 Outdoor Checklist

by Greg Rosychuk

Updated October 2026

Winter has a way of sneaking up on us here in Edmonton! Before the snow starts flying and temperatures drop, now is a great time to tackle a few simple outdoor maintenance tasks.

Whether you're settling in for another Alberta winter or thinking about putting your home on the market, a little preparation can help prevent costly repairs and keep your property looking its best.

Here are eight things worth checking before winter arrives.

1. Disconnect Garden Hoses and Drain Outdoor Taps

Disconnect all garden hoses, drain them, and put them away for the season. If your outdoor faucets have interior shutoff valves, turn those off and drain the remaining water.

Even frost-free outdoor taps can freeze if a hose is left connected, trapping water inside.

2. Winterize Your Underground Sprinkler System

Water left inside irrigation lines can freeze, expand, and crack pipes or sprinkler heads.

Have your underground sprinkler system professionally winterized before sustained freezing temperatures arrive. A proper sprinkler blowout can save you from expensive repairs in the spring.

3. Empty and Store Rain Barrels

Don't forget about your rain barrels!

Empty them completely, disconnect them from your downspouts, and store them upside down or in a sheltered location. Freezing water can expand and crack plastic barrels.

Make sure your downspouts still direct water away from your foundation after disconnecting the barrels.

4. Clean Your Eavestroughs and Downspouts

Fall leaves and debris can clog eavestroughs, preventing proper drainage.

When trapped water freezes, it can create ice buildup and damage gutters. Clear out accumulated debris and ensure downspouts direct water away from your home's foundation.

5. Prepare Your Air Conditioner or Heat Pump

This is one area where it's important to know which type of equipment you have. Traditional air conditioners and heat pumps require different winter preparation.

Traditional Air Conditioners (Cooling Only)

Remove leaves, grass clippings, and debris from around the outdoor unit.
Most modern air conditioners are designed to withstand winter weather without a cover.
If the manufacturer recommends covering your unit, use an appropriate ventilated or top-only cover. Avoid wrapping it tightly in plastic, which can trap moisture.
Switch your thermostat out of cooling mode. Follow your manufacturer's recommendations regarding the outdoor electrical disconnect or breaker.

Heat Pumps (Heating and Cooling)

Heat pumps may operate throughout the winter to heat your home.
Do not cover or disconnect power to a heat pump used for winter heating.
Keep snow, leaves, and ice from blocking airflow around the outdoor unit.
After heavy snowfall, gently clear accumulated snow and keep the area around the unit accessible.

Not sure what you have? Check your owner's manual or ask your HVAC service provider before making changes.

6. Check Furnace Intake and Exhaust Vents

Take a quick walk around your home and locate the exterior intake and exhaust pipes for your furnace. On many newer homes, these are white PVC pipes extending through an outside wall.

Make sure they're free of leaves and debris. Throughout the winter, check that drifting snow and ice haven't blocked them.

Blocked vents can prevent your furnace from operating properly and may create dangerous exhaust conditions.

7. Get Your Snow Shovels and Ice Melt Ready

Don't wait until the first snowfall to find out your snow shovel is broken!

Dig out your shovels, stock up on ice melt or traction sand, and keep everything somewhere easily accessible.

You'll appreciate having everything ready when Edmonton delivers that first slippery morning.

8. Check Your Sump Pump Discharge Line

If your home has a sump pump that discharges outdoors, check the exterior discharge line before freezing temperatures arrive.

Temporary extension hoses can freeze and become blocked. Where your system allows, disconnect summer hoses and switch to an appropriate winter drainage arrangement.

Make sure water can still flow away from your foundation, and never block the discharge outlet.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way!

Taking care of these simple outdoor tasks before winter arrives can help protect your home and avoid unexpected repairs.

Coming in November: Part 2 of our Winter Home Preparation series, featuring indoor maintenance tips to keep your home warm, safe, and comfortable throughout the season.

Thinking About Selling Your Home This Winter?

The Edmonton real estate market doesn't shut down when the snow arrives! Buyers continue looking for homes throughout the winter months, and a well-maintained property can make a great first impression, regardless of the season.

Know someone who's thinking about selling their home this winter? Share this checklist with them or tag them in our social media post! A little preparation now can help protect their home and prevent unexpected maintenance surprises when it's time to sell.

And if you're considering selling this winter or planning a move in the spring, I'd be happy to help you explore your home's current market value and the best strategy for your sale.

Let's chat about your next move!

Greg Rosychuk, REALTOR®
YEGAgents.ca
Edmonton Real Estate, Upgraded.