Not sure where to start or what to do? Don’t worry, here’s your ultimate spring preventative maintenance checklist.
- Test your smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors, and all GFCI outlets.
- Replace batteries in alarms and household gadgets.
- Inspect and clean out all drains, especially tub and shower drains. If the water drains slowly when you run the water, you likely have a clog and will want to remove it.
- Inspect your washing machine water hoses for cracks and give it a thorough cleaning.
- Clean your faucet aerators and showerheads to remove mineral deposits. Soaking in equal parts water and vinegar solution for about 30 minutes should do the trick.
- Vacuum your heat registers and heat vents.
- Flush out your hot water heater. This will remove sediment to help it work more efficiently and prolong the life of your water heater.
- Inspect and clean out your dryer vent and make sure that your outdoor air vents aren’t blocked.
- Check your water softener and top up salt if necessary.
- Clean your garbage disposal.
- Refinish your deck if the finish is showing signs of wear and tear.
- Power wash your windows, siding, patio, and driveway.
- Change your air conditioner filter.
- Fertilize your lawn.
- Tune up your lawnmower and other yard maintenance equipment.
- Clean ceiling fans.
- Check your basement and attic for moisture, leaks, or infestations.
- Trim trees and shrubs.
- Check caulking and silicone seals in bathrooms, kitchen, and around windows and doors.
- If you have a septic tank, have it inspected and pumped.
- Get your air conditioning system serviced. (Or learn how to do a DIY HVAC inspection.)
- Remove winter insulation on outdoor faucets.
- Inspect your chimney for damage or decay. For wood-burning fireplaces, we recommend getting the chimney cleaned by a professional chimney sweep.
- Clean blinds, window screens and door screens.
- Clean your furnace filter. You want to remove dust build-up to make it easier for the furnace to function properly in regulating your home’s temperature. This will also help keep energy bills down, too.
- Inspect your gutters for clogs and your roof for leaks as well as loose, damaged, or missing shingles.
- Lastly, it’s important to review your home warranty to make sure your particular home systems and appliances are adequately covered, especially your HVAC for heavy summer air conditioning usage.
Investing a little time into proactive and preventative home maintenance around your home this Spring will help prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your systems and appliances. It’s worth it to know that your home is running smoothly, and you can just relax and enjoy your home, all season long.
Source: American Home Shield
ERA® and the ERA logo are registered service marks owned by ERA Franchise Systems LLC. Each ERA office is independently owned and operated. Supporter of the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Note: Always use proper safety precautions and consult with qualified professionals when necessary before attempting any home maintenance project. This material may contain suggestions and best practices that you may use at your discretion.
