The cold weather has finally passed, and now it’s time to clean your home and prep for summer. As a homeowner, do you know what items need to be done to your house each year? Here are some of the most important things to do to keep it in excellent condition.
Have Your Windows Cleaned
As you look at your home from the outside, do you notice dust and water spots on your windows? The water, snow, ice and wind of the winter leave behind mineral deposits on the glass, making them grimy. Cleaning them can be a big project, so contact a local professional who has the proper equipment and can get to the upper-level windows safely. Search online for local companies, or click here, that are available to conquer this project.
Drain Build-Up From the Water Heater
No matter how filtered your home water system is, sediment builds up over time. The tank for your water heater uses a lot of water, which means a more considerable amount of sediment gets trapped inside. Over time, these mineral deposits can cause mechanical problems with the tank. Do a partial emptying twice a year. To do this, turn off the power to the tank, wait for the water to cool, and attach a hose to the drain valve. If you live in an area with especially hard water or have many people in the home, you may need to do this more frequently than twice a year.
Clean the Dryer Vent
The lint screen in your dryer catches a lot of debris when clothes are dried. However, tiny particles of dust and lint don’t get trapped and make it to the vent hose. Over time, the material builds up and creates a fire hazard. Run a vacuum nozzle through the vent hose to clean out as much debris as you can. If your hose is more than a few feet long, have a professional clean it once a year. It’s also a good idea to check the vent opening from the outside of the home. Ensure that lint, trash and plants are not preventing proper air circulation.
Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
The wind blows leaves everywhere during autumn weather. You may clean up all the leaves from your yard, but the gutters and downspouts often get overlooked. Leaves get trapped in there, which prevents water from draining away from your roof. Too much water can cause a lot of expensive damage. Inspect your gutters from a ladder. If there is a lot of debris, use a garden hose or leaf blower to clean it out. If you have a lot of trees and second-story gutters, use a professional service to get to those spots safely.
Taking care of your home keeps it in good condition long-term. Each spring, spend some time inspecting your house to see if anything needs to be repaired from winter damage. It’s also a good idea to clean your windows, dryer vent, gutters and build-up in the water heater.