5 Ways You Can Enhance Your Spring Cleaning and Home Maintenance

5 Ways You Can Enhance Your Spring Cleaning and Home Maintenance 

Each Spring, many homeowners dedicate time to a much-needed cleaning of their homes. A recent study showed spring cleaning is on the rise, with three out of four Americans Spring cleaning yearly, increasing focus on maintaining a clean and healthy home. Responders added that there is much time dedicated to cleaning and disinfecting kitchens and bathrooms and cleaning bedrooms.

In addition to your annual deep clean, it’s essential to consider these home maintenance tasks to include in your spring maintenance checklist.

 

Replace Furnace Filters 

Furnace filters protect a furnace from hair, dust, and other particles that could get pulled in and damage it. The most popular type of filter is disposable and needs to be changed on a routine basis for optimal performance. 

• How often to change: Replace furnace filters at least every three months  
• What to look for: When purchasing a new filter, look at the product’s “MERV rating” to evaluate its quality; the higher the rating, the better it will do at capturing particles 
• Benefits: Did you know that keeping up on replacing your furnace filters could reduce your energy costs? This happens because the motor does not have to work as hard as it does when the filter is full or clogged   

 

Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts 

When gutters and downspouts are clogged or filled with debris, water will not flow away from the house properly. This can become problematic and costly, potentially creating foundational cracks, leaky roofs, water damage, etc.  

• Tips for cleaning: If you opt to clean your gutters and downspouts on your own, be sure to have a sturdy, extendable ladder, wear clothing that can get dirty and invest in a scoop to remove debris.
• Future considerations: Gutter guards are an excellent investment as they provide a protective layer over the gutter that allows water to flow in while keeping out any debris.
• Ensure downspouts direct water away: Downspouts direct water away from a home’s foundation; be sure yours are flowing in the correct direction and are in good shape.

 

Replace Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries 

It is imperative to have working smoke detectors to alert everyone in a home of a fire or heavy smoke. It is also just as necessary are working carbon monoxide detectors. 

• How often to change: Spring and Fall are great times to change batteries in your detectors.
• Consider hardwired detectors: If you’d like to forgo batteries altogether, you can invest in hardware that runs on battery backup in the event of a power outage. 
• Get a carbon monoxide detector: If you do not have this detector, you and those in your home will have no way of being alerted if this dangerous gas is in your home.

 

Flush Out Water Heater 

Your water heater is susceptible to sediment build-up. Over time, this will cause many issues that can reduce its lifespan. 

• How often to flush: Homeowners should flush out their water heater every six months. If you live in an area with hard water, consider completing this more often.
• Basics of the task: By flushing out your water heater, you are draining all the water and inspecting for sediment. While each water heater is different, you should take some time to learn how to drain a water heater.
• Why it’s important: When sediment sits in a water heater tank, it creates a barrier between the heat source and the water, causing it to be less efficient because it must work harder. Additionally, pieces of the sediment can break off and cause blockages and other problems.

 

Inspect the Interior and Exterior for Issues 

Spring is a great time to conduct your annual home inspections. It is essential to know what to look for and your next steps.   

• Areas to inspect/look for: Air conditioner, appliances, attics, basements, chimneys, foundation, furnace, leaks, mold, paint, pests, paving, pipes, roof, siding, windows, etc. 
• Learn key issues for your area: Where you live may put you at a higher risk for certain risks against your home. Take time to investigate what is common in your area, such as weather, type of water, air quality, and more. 
• Consider a professional: With so much knowledge on what to look out for in an inspection, it is helpful to leave this up to the pros. However, by reaching out to a local home inspector, you can rely on them for their expertise.
  
  

As you work through your home maintenance this Spring, WIN Home Inspection is here to help. Our Home Maintenance Inspection will ensure that a trained professional will conduct a thorough assessment of the crucial areas of your home. Additionally, if there are any issues, your inspector can help guide you on companies or resources to resolve them.