It's that time of year when everything in your home needs a serious refresh and deep cleaning. This is the perfect time to do those yearly tasks you may have been putting off, or maybe you have no idea where to start! Let us guide you through what you need to focus on this Spring and bring attention to some important tasks that may have slipped under the radar.
Clean Faucet and Shower Head Aerators
Sometimes your faucets and showerheads lose water pressure and start to collect debris. This is due to the filter on these faucets, known as an aerator, collecting mineral deposits. These are thin metal discs that are either permanently attached or screw on to the head of your faucet. During your Spring Cleaning, try soaking the aerator in white distilled vinegar for 24 hours. This will restore your water pressure and keep them looking new! If the aerator is still clogged after soaking it in vinegar, you may need to replace it.
Clean Garbage Disposal
If you smell something in your kitchen that seems to come from nowhere, it might be your garbage disposal. Don't worry! This is an easy problem to fix. Send some ice cubes and a lemon slice down your garbage disposal and turn it on. After a few seconds turn your disposal off and follow this treatment with hot water and baking soda. This will refresh your garbage disposal and get rid of any smell or left over food.
Clean Fireplace Flues
It is important to have your fireplace regularly maintained, cleaned, and inspected to keep your home safe and your fireplace in good working order. You can tidy up the flue yourself by using a wire brush and extender, but it is a good idea to hire a chimney sweep for a deep cleaning on a regular basis.
Inspect Roofing
Take a few minutes to walk around the perimeter of your home and look up at your roof. If you see any loose or missing shingles, bends in metal roofs, collected water, or any other concerns, call a professional roofer. Doing this once a year will help you avoid leaks or damage to your roof, which could lead to larger issues. If you have a metal roof, be sure to look for any dents or bends. If you see any water damage, be sure to call a professional roofer immediately. By taking the time to inspect your roof regularly, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe.
Clean Gutters
Before or after the rainy season is a good time to inspect your gutters and downspouts to make sure they are functioning properly and preventing water damage. You can do this yourself, but it is important to use a ladder safely and have someone help you if you need it. Pay attention to the drainage areas and make sure the gutters are secure against the house. Also check to make sure the downspouts are securely attached, otherwise water can run down the side of your house and damage any wood. Some roofing companies provide gutter cleanings and repairs.
Inspect Septic Tank/ Pump
No one wants to deal with a septic tank system backing up or breaking. A septic tank system is a vital part of your home's plumbing system, but it can be expensive to repair or replace if it breaks down. That's why it's important to have your septic tank system inspected and serviced on a yearly basis. There are a few things you can do to help keep your septic tank system in good working order: Things like coffee grounds, grease, produce stickers, paper towels, flushable wipes, and melted candle wax can clog your pipes and cause problems with your septic tank system. So be sure to have your septic tank system pumped out regularly. The sludge and scum that build up in your tank can eventually cause it to overflow or back up into your home.
Repair/ Replace Caulk and weathering on Windows and Doors
Inspect door and window frames for gaps, cracks, or damage. These openings can allow for pests, higher utility bills, and water damage. To refresh your seal, remove any old caulk and apply a new bead. Weathering on doors and windows is easy to identify and easy to purchase at your local hardware store.
Oil Garage Door Hinges and Chain
If your garage door is squeaking, it may be time to oil the hinges, wheels, and chain. Oiling a garage door is not the same as oiling any other door. WD-40 should not be used. Instead, use a silicon lubricant. Clean the hinges, chains, springs, and wheels as much as possible before spraying. Wipe the areas thoroughly after spraying and say goodbye to that squeaky garage door!
Remove Lint from Dryer Hose/ vent
At least once a year, unplug your dryer and pull it away from the wall. Clean out any lint, dust, or debris that has accumulated at the back of the dryer, including the vent. Use a nylon brush to dust off the back vent, inside and outside of the dryer hose. This will prevent fires and damage and keep your dryer working efficiently.
Change your HVAC filters
Your HVAC system is a vital part of your home that needs to be maintained regularly. You should change the air filter every one to three months, depending on how often you use your system. It's also important to inspect your vents for damage and give them a nice dusting. If you have a pet, you should change your air filter more often. Pet dander can build up in the filter and make it difficult for your HVAC system to circulate air properly. By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently.
Check Alarms
Smoke alarms and Carbon Dioxide detectors are meant to keep our families and our homes safe, but they can’t do this if they don’t work. It is important to do an annual check of your home alarms. Make sure your home has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors by checking and testing the batteries. Smoke detectors should be in every bedroom and hallway, while carbon monoxide detectors should be on every level of the home, including the garage and basement.
Check Sprinkler System
As the seasons get warmer and lawns start to turn green, it is important to make sure that your sprinkler system is working properly to avoid damage or flooding. Turn your system on and take a walk around your property to make sure all the sprinkler heads are working properly. Are they spraying water evenly? Are they straight? Do they have a good water flow? If you notice any problems, such as excess water, puddles, or damage, call a plumber or lawn care professional.
Take a Stroll
Walking around the house monthly is a good idea to check for ant beds or termite tunnels along the side of the house - spring is swarming season for both pests! If you notice any signs of these critters take control and hire a pest control specialist to rid your home of any potential damage that can be caused. While checking the side of your home see if there is any peeling or damage in the paint job. Peeling paint leads to rotting wood, so stay on top of keeping a good coat of paint on the exterior of the house and all the trim.
Inspect A/C unit
There are two parts of your air conditioning unit that you should make sure to clean or replace on an annual basis. This process involves replacing the filters behind your vents and getting a cleaner for the condenser on your outside A/C unit. Both services will depend on your air conditioning unit and can be done on your own or by a heating and cooling service.
