In a blink of an eye, the weather will get warmer, the snow will melt, and it’ll finally be spring!
While chores may not be at the top of your warmer weather to do list, regular home maintenance can help you identify issues before they become big problems. So, as we get ready for spring, let the Good Hands Advice team share with you spring cleaning tips for your home.
Tips for House Cleaning This Spring.
Inside the Home
After coming out of hibernation this winter, it should come at no surprise that the inside of your home may have accumulated lots of dust and debris. As you begin deep cleaning inside of your home, in addition to removing dust and cobwebs under the bed, be sure to take a critical look at potential risks in these hidden spaces:
- Stuff can accumulate over the winter, especially after the holiday season. Take this opportunity to clear the clutter out your basement and other areas where things tend to pile up.
- Getting behind the dryer? Be sure to clean the dryer ducts. Lint can sneak by the lint trap and make its way to the ducts, potentially blocking the flow of air and causing excessive heat build-up. This can sometimes even lead to fire.
- After cleaning the dryer, be sure to look at your washing machine and check the water supply hoses. Over time, hoses and connections deteriorate, leading to an increased risk of them leaking or bursting open. Inspect them for wear and tear and replace them if necessary.
Clean and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Some manufacturers suggest cleaning these alarms as dust can clog them with a dry, clean cloth. If the manufacturer instructions suggest so, carefully vacuum the inside of battery-powered units using a soft bristle brush. If electrically connected, shut off the power and vacuum the outside vents only. When finished, restore power and test the unit.
You should install a new battery in battery-powered detectors at least once a year (but bi-annually is even better). If you can’t remember when the battery was last changed, now is the time to do it. Smoke alarms may have an expiration date, so be sure to check to see if they have one.
Clean and repair damaged window screens
Open-window weather is almost here, but you’ll want to make sure your screens are in good shape so they only let in fresh air! Winter storms and wind can damage window screens, so it’s a good idea to assess them and replace what needs to be fixed. Depending on their level of dirtiness, you may want to clean your window screens with a vacuum, or wash them with warm soapy water and a rinse.
Replace the AC Filter
While hot weather may still be a few weeks away, you’ll want to make sure your air conditioner is ready to go when you are. A new filter will help optimize the efficiency of the unit.
Outside the Home
Your house has done its job of keeping you and your family warm and protected from the winter elements. To help ensure that your home continues to provide you with protection, consider these spring-cleaning tips.
Check roof and shingles
High winds, excessive rain and snow, even the sun can damage your roof; and a leaky roof can cause a lot of other issues. Hire a professional to examine it for lost or damaged shingles. Shingles that are cracked, buckled or loose should be replaced. Flashing around plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys should also be checked.
Clean eavestroughs and downspouts
But didn’t I just clean them out in the fall? Yes, but more leaves and debris may have collected there over the winter, and you’ll want to make sure your eaves and downspouts are ready to take on the spring showers. Check for loose or leaky gutters as improper drainage can lead to water infiltration. Make sure downspouts are directing water away from the foundation.
Check seals around windows and doors
Cold weather can cause cracks or harden the caulk around windows and doors. Inspect the seals and replace as needed. Good seals will not only help prevent water from getting in, but they will also help keep cool air-conditioned air inside (the same will be true of the warm air your furnace produces when winter rolls back around).
Repair damaged siding or trim
Make sure your home’s siding and trim haven’t been damaged from winter conditions. If your home is made of brick or stucco, look for crumbling or deteriorated mortar. If you find a problem, contact a professional to repair or replacing the damaged materials.
Service the AC unit
Hire a professional to clean and service the outside unit of your air conditioning system. Clean units operate more efficiently, and an annual service will help keep the system working at peak performance.
Staying on top of your home maintenance is the best way to ensure that it continues to do its job of providing protection for you and your loved ones.
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