Our FAQ

How does the garbage system work?

First of all, it’s essential to properly close the door! Sometimes it might be a bit loose, and you’ll need to press gently: but that’s a good thing. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words!

In our region, it is crucial to manage garbage properly to avoid attracting wildlife, especially bears. We ask that you follow the sorting guidelines: one bin for recyclables (plastics, glass, metal), another for non-recyclable waste, and a compost bin for organic waste. The garbage bins must be tightly sealed, as odors can attract bears. When not in use, please keep the bins inside the house or in a secure area to prevent any incidents. Thank you for your vigilance!

pictures taken sept. 29 2024

How does the wood stove work?

Do not use it between May and September (we are not insured!). Please don't hesitate to ask for information and permission before lighting a fire.

First, to understand the heating system: Our house has two heating sources - wood and electric. The electric heating is just a backup system that maintains 16°C to prevent pipes from freezing. Due to our solar panels (on the south face) and energy costs, it can't efficiently heat more than that.

The wood stove is your main heating source, and here's how to use it effectively:

1. Start by watching these two essential videos:

   • How to start a fire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNidEAavLlo

   • How to optimize your fire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zs2P4PnIw7A

2. Daily routine for optimal heating:

   • Morning: Initial wood load

   • Noon: Add wood

   • Evening: Final load before bed This routine maintains a comfortable 19-22°C throughout the house, with upper rooms staying even warmer.

3. Important tips for efficient operation:

   • Keep the stove running continuously - it's more efficient than stopping and restarting

   • Once in the "active" zone, add a log, close the back damper, and adjust the thermostat

   • Never leave the stove door open while burning - this prevents dangerous carbon monoxide buildup

   • Clean weekly if used regularly

Safety rules (non-negotiable):

• Nothing other than cardboard, newspaper, and wood in the stove

• Keep the metal area around the stove completely clear - no shoes, clothes, or any items

• Never place anything on the stove, even when cold

• Door should be Always close !

• Insurance won't cover if you don't follow these rules!

If you're staying longer, learning proper wood management is crucial to avoid expensive electric heating bills. Please don't hesitate to ask questions - we want you to be comfortable and safe during your stay!

In case of a power outage ?

• Stay Hydrated: In the summer, it’s crucial to always have fresh water on hand. If water runs out, you can use river water. This water can be filtered with a cloth and then boiled on the gas stove to make it drinkable.

• Alternative Cooking: If the outage lasts a long time, the barbecue is an excellent way to cook your meals.

• Emergency Equipment: If we haven’t left for camping, a propane JetBoil and matches are available for you in an orange chest located in the carport.

• Winter: During the winter, it’s essential to keep the wood stove burning all day to prevent the pipes from freezing.

• Communicate with Neighbors: If you need help or information, feel free to contact our neighbor Steve, who lives across the street, or the neighbors next door.

• Outage Information: You can track power outages and repairs by searching “BC Outage” on Google to access the BC Hydro website.

Important Rules:

• Always have a few liters of water in reserve.

• Ensure that the propane bottle is full.

How does the dishwasher work?

Be sure to rinse the plates and dishes thoroughly, as the dishwasher is very sensitive and temperamental!

Do not put the following items in the dishwasher:

• Any wooden objects or those with wooden handles.

• Cutting knives from the second drawer.

• Any black pots or pans from the ScanPan brand (these cost at least $250 each) to prevent them from losing their non-stick coating.

Here’s the procedure:

1. Select the program.

2. Press Start.

3. Close the door.

4. Wait 15 seconds and check that the red light on the floor is on.

Important Information:

• As long as the red light on the floor is solid, the dishwasher is running. Do not open it! If it’s blinking, it’s on pause. No light means it’s off.

• If someone opened the dishwasher while it was running, simply press start again and close it; it should resume.

• If you encounter error codes 25 or 12, it’s because there are food particles, and the nozzle at the bottom of the dishwasher needs cleaning! Here’s the guide: https://youtu.be/RQXhRosxor8?si=IbWa4fqZdF0PCiHC.

What to do if you encounter a bear on the property?

The nature around our home is beautiful, but it’s essential to respect the wildlife that inhabits it. We regularly have visits from bears, and sometimes cougars. These are not zoo animals, and it’s not a game. Forget about photos for Instagram: your safety and the animals’ safety come first. Here are some important rules to follow:

• Safety Distance: Never approach these animals. Always maintain a distance of at least 100 meters from a bear and 200 meters from a cougar.

• Stay Vigilant: Do not disturb them, do not attempt to feed them, and avoid risky behavior. If you see an animal, back away slowly and make noise to signal your presence (we have bear sprays available in the house, of course).

• If in doubt: Don’t hesitate to ask us or our neighbors for advice. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

• Walks and Wildlife Spotting: You are more likely to see wildlife during early morning walks or in the late afternoon, near roads or off-trail paths.

Lastly, remember that our environment is fragile. Respect it so that the wildlife can continue to thrive here. Always be prepared, and keep in mind that here, nature is in charge.

How does the oven/microwave work?

• The top oven is the microwave.

• The bottom oven is the regular oven.

The buttons on the left are for the microwave, and the buttons on the right are for the oven!

Feel free to use the drip pans to prevent grease from falling to the bottom :)

Where is the electrical control panel?

The electrical panel is located in the mechanical room (the room behind the kitchen). It’s just behind the vacuum.

The freezer and the small fridge are personal: please do not take anything from them :)

Do I need to empty the dryer?

Yes, please empty the lint filter between each use. Leaving fiber buildup prevents the dryer from functioning properly and poses a fire hazard.

How to clean the shower?

If your stay is longer than 2 weeks, the shower and grout need to be cleaned every two weeks. Our water is so rich in iron that it changes the color of the grout (we’ve tried many sealants, but nothing works). Just use water, shampoo (yes, it may sound odd, but it’s the most effective), and a small brush :)

Which product should I use to clean the floor?

The floor is hardwood and doesn’t like large amounts of water. Under the stovetop, there’s a gallon labeled “Cleaner.” Use this product in the “Vileda” mop, which can be found in the mechanical room next to the vacuum.

In case of health issues

• Nearest Hospital: 835 9 Ave S, Golden, BC V0A 1H0

• Pharmacy: 916 10th Ave S, Golden, BC V0A 0A0