When you hear the phrase ‘spring cleaning tasks,’ you may think about shaking out dusty and dirty rugs, wiping down baseboards, and sorting through the surprisingly big accumulation of winter clutter.
While these tasks are important, don’t forget to look at some of the bigger picture spring cleaning tasks that are essential for maintaining your home.
Check your heating system
To keep your heating system running as it should, it will need regular maintenance. Without maintenance, it could break down and require time and money to fix.
Different heating systems require different kinds of maintenance. Air filters should be replaced quarterly, but many people forget to do this. If you can’t remember to do it this often, make sure you do it at least once a year.
Oil-fueled furnaces require an oil change once a year. If upkeep is costing you more than it should, consider investing in a new system and contact a heating installation company. Though it’s a big up-front cost, it’ll save you more in the long run.
Repaint the exterior
While repainting may not be required every year, if you notice your home, fence, or deck is starting to look a little worse for wear, it’s time to consider exterior painting.
A freshly-painted home will improve its value in the market while also protecting your home from the elements. Wood decks and fences, if made from natural wood, should be resealed regularly to prevent moisture damage.
Check your plumbing
Most people don’t think twice about their plumbing system until they have a leak. Instead of waiting for a plumbing emergency to take place before calling a plumber, inspect your plumbing system for drips, leaks, and rusty parts once a year.
If you find a part that needs replacing, you may be able to do it yourself with a quick trip to Home Depot and a YouTube video. This will save you hundreds on hiring a plumber, and potentially thousands in the case of a plumbing emergency.
Check the smoke detectors
If you’re relying on your smoke detector to tell you when the battery is getting low, you’re making a mistake. There are two types of tests you can do to ensure your smoke detector is in proper working order: a basic test and a crisis test.
In a basic test, all you’ll need to do is hit the test button to check that the alarm works. In a crisis test, you’ll want to hold up a blown-out candle or incense stick about 12 inches away from the alarm. It should detect the smoke and produce an alarm.
Check roof and structure for cracks
Roofing and foundation damage is one of the most costly home repairs. However, ignoring these problems will just mean you’ll end up paying even more down the line.
If you can’t currently afford to replace the shingles on your roof, simply have a few shingles replaced annually. Once you’ve saved up enough, you can have the whole roof replaced. Cracks in the foundation or driveway can be filled in to prevent further deterioration.