Sure, the ground may still be frozen solid and semi-covered with snow, but the birds are chirping, the days growing longer, and the temps steadily rising. Ready or not, spring is just around the corner. As you prepare for the welcome change of seasons by swapping the down coats, mittens, and hats in favor of lighter outdoor apparel, don’t forget to prepare your home for change as well.
Here’s an abbreviated checklist to help you get a head start on things.
- Replace the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – and don’t forget to test them once a month. If you don’t yet have a household fire extinguisher, get one and familiarize yourself and all adult family members with how it works.
- Wash all windows and repair or replace torn or bent screens. While you’re at it, look for cracks around door and window frames and seal as needed to help prevent conditioned air loss.
- Replace furnace filters to allow the system to operate more efficiently and so that it can trap dirt, dust, and pollen more effectively.
- Go through your pantry, fridge, and freezer and toss expired or questionable items. This is a great time to wipe down shelves, drawers, and bins. Pull the refrigerator out and vacuum behind it. Accumulated dust can coat coils and other parts, making the appliance work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
- Dust ceiling fans, baseboard heaters, and air vents for improved operation and healthier indoor air.
- Deep clean area rugs and carpets to remove pet hair, dust mites, and odors that have settled into the fibers.
- Vacuum then flip or rotate mattresses to prolong their lifespan and thoroughly dust or vacuum under beds to remove dirt and dust.
- Wash and store warm, heavy linens and bedding. Be sure they are thoroughly dry before storing.
- Clean out the drier vent. A clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard. To clean it, disconnect the vent from the back of the machine and use a dryer vent brush to remove lint. Outside your house, remove the dryer vent cover and use the brush to remove lint from the other end of the vent line. Make sure the vent cover flap moves freely.
- Clear your gutters and downspouts. Dirty gutters are an eyesore and a liability not only for you but for potential buyers, as well. Cleaning your gutters will take roughly 15-30 minutes but will save you money in the long run. You can avoid flooding during spring rains by clearing gutters of all rubbish using a ladder, a small hand rake, and a hose.
Spring is also a great time to have your AC system cleaned and inspected. Soon it will be running virtually non-stop to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the warm-weather season, so a little preventive maintenance now can make all the difference in the world. Contact Anthony’s today to schedule service.
