When November 19, 2024 at 3:00pm 1 hr
Where Westminster Ponds Centre 944 Western Counties Rd, London, ON N6C 5J1, Canada

DIY Home Maintenance Workshop: Enhancing Sustainability and Health in Your Home

Date: Nov 19th, 3:00 - 4:00 pm 

Place: WPC - 944 Western Counties Road - Cottonwood Room

Regular home maintenance not only prevents costly repairs, but it also increases energy efficiency and promotes healthier living spaces. By maintaining appliances and systems, you can reduce your home’s energy consumption, conserve water, and ensure cleaner air quality indoors—key benefits for both your health and the environment.

This informative workshop on DIY home maintenance will teach attendees how simple, proactive measures can help protect their home, improve their well-being, and benefit the environment. This hands-on session will cover essential topics such as appliance upkeep, HVAC system maintenance, gutter cleaning, and more.

Attendees will gain practical skills, discover eco-friendly maintenance tips, and understand how preventive care supports a more sustainable and comfortable home.

Goal

The goal of this workshop is to empower homeowners with the know-how to perform simple DIY maintenance tasks that can save money, improve the health and comfort of their homes, and contribute to environmental sustainability. The intent is for participants to walk away feeling confident that they can keep their homes running smoothly while cutting down on waste and energy use.

Purpose

The purpose of this workshop is to:

  • Teach participants how to maintain household appliances, HVAC systems, and other essential home components.
  • Highlight the environmental benefits of regular home maintenance, including energy conservation, water conservation, and reduced waste.
  • Improve participants' ability to identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs and increasing the lifespan of home systems.
  • Promote healthier indoor environments by addressing air quality, mold prevention, and allergen reduction through proper maintenance techniques.

Target Audience

  • Homeowners: Especially those looking to save money on repairs, extend the life of their home appliances and systems, and make their homes more energy-efficient.
  • Renters: Individuals responsible for minor upkeep in rental properties who want to improve their living conditions.
  • First-Time Homebuyers: Individuals who want to learn how to properly care for their new property.

Key topics to cover

1. Introduction to Home Maintenance

  • Why DIY maintenance matters: Benefits for your wallet, health, and the environment.
  • Common areas of home neglect: Understanding the parts of your home that need regular attention (HVAC, gutters, appliances, plumbing, etc.).
  • Knowing when to DIY and when to call a Pro

2. Appliance Maintenance for Energy Efficiency

  • Cleaning refrigerator coils and seals: How and why this simple task improves energy efficiency. Identify when it's time to upgrade to more energy-efficient appliances.
  • Water heater care: Draining and flushing your water heater to improve performance and conserve energy. Show how to insulate water heaters and pipes, lower water heater temperature settings, and perform routine maintenance to save energy.
  • Dishwasher and washing machine maintenance: Tips for cleaning filters and checking hoses to prevent leaks and ensure efficiency.

3. HVAC System Care

  • Changing air filters: How frequently to change filters for energy savings and improved indoor air quality.
  • Inspecting air ducts: Preventing leaks and keeping ducts clean for better airflow and reduced energy use.
  • Seasonal HVAC Tune-Ups: DIY steps for maintaining heating and cooling systems and when to call a professional.

4. Water Conservation in the Home

  • Faucet and toilet leaks: How to detect and repair leaks to prevent water waste.
  • Low-Flow fixtures: DIY installation of water-saving fixtures (e.g., aerators, low-flow showerheads).
  • Maintaining water-saving appliances: Keeping dishwashers and washing machines in top shape for water conservation.
  • Winterizing outdoor faucets.

5. Gutter and Roof Maintenance

  • Teach participants how to safely clean gutters, inspect roofs for damage, and make minor repairs to prevent costly water damage.

6. Maintaining a Healthy Indoor Environment

  • Reducing dust and allergens: Keeping air ducts, filters, and fans clean for better indoor air quality.
  • Preventing mold and mildew: Tips for preventing and treating moisture buildup in areas like bathrooms and basements.
  • Eco-Friendly cleaning products: Using non-toxic cleaners for both personal health and environmental benefits.

7. Eco-Friendly Home Maintenance Practices

  • Choosing sustainable materials: Tips on choosing environmentally friendly products for home repairs and upgrades.
  • Energy-saving upgrades: Identifying opportunities for DIY upgrades, such as insulation, weatherstripping and caulking gaps. 

9. DIY Tools and Safety Tips

Speakers

Jonathan Hawes – HVAC Technician & Gas Fitter

He is a certified G2 gas fitter and trained HVAC technician with extensive experience working for companies like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Best Buy. He currently works with over 150 landlords and 25 Airbnb properties.

Nathan Crandall, Sales & Operations Manager at Donaldson Home Services. 

He has over 20 years experience in residential HVAC installations & sales. He was born and raised in London Ontario, and always does what is right for the client ensuring their home is safely and efficiently heated and cooled.

Registration form: https://form.jotform.com/242963297787275