Longer days and warmer temps are here and that means it’s time to start tackling your spring to-dos. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most important tips to consider while getting your home ready for the season ahead.
1. Clean Your Gutters & Downspouts
If winter’s harsh weather conditions took a toll on your gutters and downspouts, make sure you repair any damage and clear all leaves and debris before spring showers set in. Clogged or leaky gutters can lead to improper drainage, water damage and costly repair bills.
2. Replace Filters
While each type of household filter has its own purpose, they share one tremendous benefit and that is to protect you and your family members from unwanted bacteria and contaminants. Whether they’re in the air or in your water, harmful contaminants can lead to severe health problems. Add changing your water, furnace and range hood filters a part of your spring cleaning routine for a healthy home and season.
3. Clean Faucets and Shower Heads
If not cleaned on at least a seasonal basis, faucets and shower heads can form a build-up of sediment and bacteria. Regular deep cleanings in a mixture of hot water and white vinegar ensures a cleaner environment for washing hands, dishes and bathing.
Also make a point to check your outside hose faucets for freeze damage and sediment build-up.
4. Clean Out the Dryer Vent
A clogged dryer vent is known as one of the leading causes of household fires. Replacing or cleaning your dryer vent is a spring to-do that should not be ignored. For cleaning, disconnect the vent from the back of the unit and use a dryer vent brush to clean and remove lint build-up. On your home’s exterior, remove the dryer vent cover and use the vent brush to clean the area, making sure the vent cover flap moves freely.
5. Repair Window & Door Screens
Spring is a great time to open up your doors and windows and feel a flow of fresh air throughout your home. Before warmer temps arrive, be sure to check your screens for holes or tears. The smallest imperfection can act as an entry point for bugs and flies. You can find screen repair kits at most home improvement stores.
6. Test Smoke Detectors
It’s a chore that only takes a few minutes and has the potential to save lives. Never put testing your smoke and CO detectors on the back burner. Detectors should be tested monthly and batteries changed twice per year in the spring and fall.
7. Service Your Cooling Equipment
Mother nature can put a beating on your home’s heating and cooling system during a harsh Ohio winter. Having your system tuned up and inspected twice per year is an invaluable approach to making sure that it is running both efficiently and effectively. Contact a qualified heating and cooling contractor to clean and service your system, for safe operation and prolonged lifespan.
Find out more about routine HVAC maintenance.
8. Clean Ceiling Fans
Having a ceiling fan in each room of your house not only creates a refreshing cross-breeze but can also allow you to raise your thermostat setting without reducing your comfort level. As warmer temperatures set in, it’s time to prepare your fans for spring use. Make sure your blades are clean and free of dust, while also checking that the blade rotation is set to counterclockwise.
9. Clean Yard Debris & Foundation Vents
If your home has a crawlspace or basement, chances are you will have vents along your exterior foundation walls. These vents provide air circulation that helps prevent excess moisture and mold growth, while also deterring critters from taking residence underneath your home. While you are doing your spring yard clean-up, make sure you also clean the areas surrounding your foundation vents. Make sure the area is free of leaves and other debris and inspect your vent screens for holes or damage. Rodents have been known to squeeze through a hole the size of a pencil or smaller.
10. Re-Caulk Around Windows
Old, cracked and warped caulking can cause drafty windows that make it difficult to cool (and heat) your home to an optimal comfort level. It can also cause other problems such as water intrusion and high energy bills. If it’s been a long while since you last restored the caulk around your windows and doors, spring is a great time to do it.
