Top 10 Spring Home Maintenance

1. Test Smoke Alarms

Test smoke alarms and CO detectors and change out batteries as needed. It's cheap, only takes a few minutes and can save your family's lives.

2. Clean out the Dryer Vent

A clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard. To clean it, disconnect the vent from the back of the machine and use a dryer vent brush to remove lint. Outside your house, remove the dryer vent cover and use the brush to remove lint from the other end of the vent line. Make sure the vent cover flap moves freely.         

3. Replace Filters

Replace all filters including water, range hood and air vent filters. You should replace these filters every 3-6 months depending on the type of filter you have.

4. Windows

Let the sunshine in! After the winter weather, you. You can hire a professional, but if your home is single-story or you feel comfortable on a ladder, this is an easy one to tackle yourself. Grab a squeegee, a soft cloth, and a bucket that’s equal parts hot water and white vinegar. Use the cloth dipped in that solution to gently wipe away grime, then squeegee your windows clean and sparkling.

Do not forget to clean your screens, too. Use a mild detergent to get them completely clean, then let them dry before putting them back on your windows. While you are at it, check them for holes. Since you will probably be opening your windows during the warmer months, you do not want to leave any openings for insects.

5. Gutters

Winter takes its toll on the plant life around your house, and that’s bad news for your gutters. Use the spring season as a reminder to clear fallen leaves and other debris from your gutters. You will be thanking yourself when the spring showers turn to downpours and all that water can safely and effectively drain away from your home!

To knock this task off your spring home maintenance checklist, climb safely up a ladder and remove anything you find in the gutter. Then, run a hose up to your roof so you can ensure proper drainage all the way through the downspout. When the water pours out, make sure it runs away from your home’s foundation. Also, check that all downspouts are still securely attached to your home and fix any that have pulled away.

6. Hardscaping

Winter temps aren’t easy on hardscaping. Check your driveway and walkways for any signs of damage. Smaller concrete cracks can probably be easily filled if you are a DIYer, but larger damage to concrete or asphalt generally requires a pro.

7. Wood Care

Again, winter’s cold and moisture can be hard on exterior woodwork like decks and railings. This is the perfect time of year to power wash and reseal all your home’s wood fixtures so you can enjoy clean, beautiful wood when you are dining al fresco or relaxing in the yard once the temperatures warm up. While you are at it, look for any signs of wood damage so you can repair them before they become a safety hazard.

8. Grills

Clean all out your outdoor cooking appliances. Clean your grills and gas ports. Grills are a great spot for all sort of creatures to Winter over.

9. HVAC System Inspection

Your HVAC system has been working overtime this Winter. Clean around you Compressor outside and have a professional come inspect the system

10. Irrigation System inspection

Inspect for leaks and broken heads before you need it to keep your lawn alive