Spring Tips

Here’s a quick seasonal maintenance checklist for your home:

• Check water heater & shutoff valves. Check water heater for leaks and corrosion. Make sure valves at each plumbing fixture function properly. If not, replace it now before you need it.
• Inspect and clean dust from the covers of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries while you’re at it.
• Check electrical outlets. Correct loose fittings and overloads. Replace any extension cords / power strips that have become brittle, worn or damaged. Frayed wires can cause fires.
• Check your fire extinguishers and review your fire escape plan with your family. Yes, you should have fire extinguishers in your kitchen and garage + upstairs if you have a 2nd floor. Make sure it is filled and ready for operation.
• Have your air conditioning system inspected by a professional. Change the filters, replace deteriorated insulation on return lines, and trim weeds and bushes around the air conditioning unit outside.
• Clean and adjust ceiling fans. Reverse rotation.
• Check & replace light bulbs. Verify that light fixtures have the wattage recommended by the manufacturer.
• Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and the space around and under the dryer. Remove all lint, dust and pieces of material.
• Check doors and windows – lubricate, re-weather strip as needed.
• Flush garbage disposal with hot water and baking soda.
• Power outdoor equipment – change oil, lubricate, replace spark plugs, fuel and air filters; check batteries, blades and tires. make sure all oil and gas is stored in a vented, locked area.
• Outside – Weed, seed, fertilize or de-thatch lawn. Remove deadfall or dead trees and trim foliage away from roof & utility wires. Check and repair fencing.
• Check for roof damage. Do so from the roof top AND the attic.
• Clean, repair, reattach gutters and downspouts as necessary and make sure all have splash blocks.
• Check all siding, soffit, and fascia for deterioration. Wood elements should be checked for fungal and insect infestation. Inspect all caulked joints, particularly around window and door trim.
• Repair all cracked, broken or uneven driveways decks, patios, and walkways to help provide a level walking surface. Small cracks can get worse with time.