Spring cleaning. The words may not incite excitement in all, but it still an important part of being a homeowner. Winter is over and this means preparing your home for the upcoming warmer weather. This doesn't just bring about cleaning, but also maintenance. Spring is just the perfect time to get these tasks done; Who wants to work all day outside in 90* weather? We would must rather prefer the milder days of Spring. Don't just limit yourself to outdoor work though. There are plenty of things to maintain inside. Below are some important things to keep in mind for both inside your home and out.
Indoors
Indoors
- Check all electrical outlets, fuse boxes, extension cords, etc. It's important wires are in good condition, plugs fit snugly, and that nothing is overloaded.
- Be sure you have a functioning fire extinguisher on hand and in an easily accessible location.
- Have your air-conditioning system inspected by a professional as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Check your water heater for leaks and corrosion.
- Clean or replace your furnace filter, if needed.
- Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under the dryer. Remove all lint, dust, and pieces of material.
- Check your smoke detectors. There should be one on each floor of your home. It's best to test them monthly and replace batteries as needed.
- Make sure all the light bulbs in all your fixtures are the correct wattage.
- Replace all high-intensity bulbs with fluorescent bulbs. Other types of bulbs, like incandescent, produce more heat than fluorescent bulbs.
- Check your roof to be sure there isn't any damage that needs to be addressed.
- Remove dead trees in your yard. This helps prevent accidents during a storm.
- Keep healthy trees and bushes trimmed and away from utility wires.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to keep debris from accumulating.
- Safely store oil and gas for lawn equipment and tools in a vented, locked area.
- Repair cracked, broken or uneven driveways and walkways to provide a level walking surface.