It’s getting warmer and warmer as we move towards Spring and it’s time to consider part 2 in our series that explores some ways to maintain your home come Springtime!
- Clean those Windows! We’re again starting with an item that sounds obvious and, again, you may be surprised how many people don’t actually clean the outside of their windows. We promise you that after you clean them and the spring sun starts to shine in, you’ll realize how dirty they were! Use this intimate time with your windows to also clean windows sill and window tracks. You should also check for gaps between your windows and the caulk. If it’s wider than a nickel you should reapply exterior caulk. Keeping the hot air out during the summer months is as important as keeping the cold air from coming in during the winter months.
Check and Clean your AC! It’s time to give your AC some love again. You know he’s your best friend during those hot, summer days! Change the filter, check hose connections for leaks, and make certain drain pans are draining freely. Also check the coils! When AC coils are dirty and dusty, the system has to run harder and longer to have the same cooling effect. For an outside AC unit, disassemble the casing (making sure the power is off!), and then clean using a stiff brush and spray bottle and use some canned air. If you have the money, you may also want to consider having your whole HVAC system checked by a professional. Those routine maintenance costs often add up to less money than major fixes down the road. Finally, don’t forget to give that outside AC unit some special attention by treating it with ReColor by Wipe New. ReColor is better than trying to paint it, it brings back the original shine, and it helps to protect the AC unit from the weather.- Clean the Dryer Vent! Dryers are noticeably less efficient with a lint-filled vent. We’re not taking about your lint trap (which should be done before every load of laundry), but the lint that can be found inside the vent host. To clean the vent, just remove the vent hose from the back of the dryer and vacuum it well. It wouldn’t hurt to remove the vent cover on the outside of your home, and vacuum it from that side as well.
- Check Washing Machine Hoses! Washing machine hoses can crack over time and often get unnoticed. This could result it leaks that go on for weeks or even months. In return, this can create not only water damage, but problems with mold. Make sure your hoses are still flexible and that there are no signs of cracking. If you’re in doubt, do! Replacing them is usually an easy fix!
- Speaking of Hoses! Be sure to check outside hose faucets to see if there is any freeze damage. Simply turn the water on and place a thumb over the opening. If you can’t stop the flow of water you’re probably good to go. If you can it’s possible that pipe inside the home is damaged and needs replacing.
Check and Clean your AC! It’s time to give your AC some love again. You know he’s your best friend during those hot, summer days! Change the filter, check hose connections for leaks, and make certain drain pans are draining freely. Also check the coils! When AC coils are dirty and dusty, the system has to run harder and longer to have the same cooling effect. For an outside AC unit, disassemble the casing (making sure the power is off!), and then clean using a stiff brush and spray bottle and use some canned air. If you have the money, you may also want to consider having your whole HVAC system checked by a professional. Those routine maintenance costs often add up to less money than major fixes down the road. Finally, don’t forget to give that outside AC unit some special attention by treating it with ReColor by Wipe New. ReColor is better than trying to paint it, it brings back the original shine, and it helps to protect the AC unit from the weather.Happy Spring Cleaning! Be sure to explore Part 1 of this Spring Home Maintenance Series
Cleaning my AC was one of the best things I ever did. Thanks for the tips.