Though it often seems like winter will never end, each year spring’s glory returns. Soon we’ll be able to open the windows and hear the birds chirp! Spring is a great time to make use of the milder weather to tackle home projects and repair needs.
Follow this spring home maintenance checklist as a guide for keeping your home in top shape. Making the effort to keep you home running smoothly now will save you time and money in the long run!
1. Turn on the AC. Yes, we know you don’t need it yet, but give your air conditioner a test run now — don’t wait until the humidity hits to discover your AC needs repairs.
3. Inspect your washer and dryer. Check the washing machine fill-hose for any cracks, which could cause damage if a leak were to spout. And check your outer dryer vent for build-up, which may be causing your dryer to run longer.
4. Drain your water heater. Sediment can build up in your water heater tank. Use the spigot near the bottom of the heater to drain it and help prolong its life while reducing your electric bill.
5. Vacuum your refrigerator coils. If the coils on the bottom or back of your refrigerator are coated with dust, they do the job less efficiently.
6. Replace batteries in life saving devises. Take a peak once a year to ensure that both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alerts are working properly — you never know when you’re going to need them!
7. Replace light bulbs. Take the time to make sure your light fixtures contain the correct wattage bulbs and replace any old bulbs with energy-saving ones!
8. Give your mower a tune-up. Make sure your lawn mower is ready for the warm season! Get the blade sharpened and check that you have mower gasoline on hand.
9. Clean your deck and outdoor surfaces. Make use of that pressure washer to give your deck, patio, fence, and driveway a good washing. Inspect for any mending needs and take care of paint touch-ups too.
10. Clear out gutters and downspouts. Check for leaves and corrosion in your gutters and flush downspouts with water to wash out any clogs. Clogged gutters can lead to severe water damage, often difficult to detect until you need a major repair.
11. Check out the chimney. Leaks often occur around openings in your roof such as they chimney. Check your chimney for any cracks, loose bricks, or signs of rot. Check to make sure the cap is still present and hasn’t collapsed to cover the chimney flue.
12. Inspect your roof. Keep your roof in good shape to keep your home leak-free. After the harsh winter gives way, check for any loose shingles and keep an eye out for other damage. For more tips on inspecting your roof, click here.
Excel Builders is a home remodeling contractor serving the West Metro area of the Twin Cities, including Chaska, Chanhassen, Eden Prairie, and more. We love offering tips and ideas to help you keep your home in top shape!