If you recall your mother or grandmother being diligent about spring cleaning, you might also remember their lamentations about how one task always led to another.
Now that you’re a homeowner, you’ve likely come to appreciate the accuracy of their observations, especially when it comes to spring home maintenance. This seasonal check-up is crucial as it marks the first opportunity in months to thoroughly assess your home after enduring the fall and winter seasons.
Take heed of these “Expert Help Points” to guide your efforts. With nearly 70 years of experience assisting homeowners in northern California, Experts In Your Home not only understands home repairs but also appreciates the wisdom passed down through generations. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Prioritize thoroughness over speed. Recognize that completing your check-up may span multiple days, with one dedicated to indoor inspections (as outlined here) and another for outdoor assessments (to be covered in a subsequent article).
- Anticipate discovering issues. Identifying problems early allows for timely repairs, preventing them from escalating into larger concerns.
- Know your limits. Assess your ability and confidence to handle repairs; while it’s commendable to tackle tasks yourself, some repairs are best left to professionals to avoid compromising your home or personal safety.
Commence with Your Central Air Conditioner
Schedule an annual air conditioner tune-up promptly to optimize its efficiency and ensure trouble-free operation throughout the season.
Form Habits for Home Inspection
Adopt a systematic approach to inspecting your home, moving through each room methodically while maintaining a checklist to streamline any necessary trips to the hardware store.
- Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Inspect electrical outlets and cords for potential hazards.
- Check and familiarize everyone with the location and usage of fire extinguishers.
- Thoroughly inspect faucets, drains, and pipes for leaks, repairing any identified issues promptly.
- Examine the dryer’s exhaust duct for security and cleanliness, clearing away lint and dust buildup.
- Assess the water heater for leaks and signs of corrosion, addressing any rust immediately.
- Evaluate door and window seals, repairing or replacing as needed, and attend to any damaged screens.
- Test the functionality of attic fans and ensure proper sealing of vents and pass-through points.
- Inspect basement walls and floors for dampness, considering ventilation, insulation, or dehumidification solutions if necessary.
- Clean behind and beneath the refrigerator, vacuuming coils to enhance efficiency.
- Adjust ceiling fans to run counterclockwise for a cooling effect during warmer months.