Spring is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start preparing your home for the warmer weather. Here are some tips to help get your home in shape before the flowers start blooming.
1. Clean Out Your Gutters
Rain and melted snow can quickly lead to an overflowing drain, thanks to debris build-up. If they’re blocked, that water has nowhere to go but into your foundation or basement. That could cause some serious damage.
Your gutters should be cleaned out at least twice a year, and more if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain or snow. You can hire a professional to do this for you or do it yourself with the proper safety equipment.
2. Inspect Your HVAC System
Inspect your heating and cooling systems to ensure they’re ready for the warmer weather. If you have an older heating and cooling system, upgrading to a newer, more efficient model might be a good time. It’s also a good time to check whether your vents are clean and dust-free. This will help your air conditioner run more efficiently.
3. Test Your Smoke Alarms
Spring and summer months are notorious for house fires. Make sure your smoke alarms are in good working order to alert you if a fire does start. Replace any batteries that might be low, and check the entire unit to ensure it’s clean and free of dirt or dust build-up.
4. Change the Air Filters
Replacing your air filter is an important part of routine maintenance. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your HVAC unit work harder than it needs to. It can also lead to higher power bills because the unit will be running more frequently than needed. In fact, replacing a clogged filter can reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.
5. Inspect Your Roof for Damage
If you live in an area that gets a lot of storms and heavy winds, your roof is likely to take a beating during the winter months. A professional can help inspect the roof and determine whether there’s damage that needs to be addressed. Having damage repaired as soon as possible helps prevent further damage and reduces the risk of leaks.
6. Spring Clean Your Home
Finally, the season of spring cleaning has arrived! Now’s the time to get rid of your winter clutter and make way for some fresh, new decor to bring life back into your home. Whether it’s a full-scale overhaul or simply reorganizing your furniture, there are lots of fun ways you can spruce up your home before summer comes.
It’s important to take time to prepare your home for warmer weather. Having a clean and well-maintained home makes the season more enjoyable and helps extend the life of your roof, heating and cooling units, gutters, and more.