Spring is around the corner and the snow is finally starting to melt! Now that you’ll be able to see your home again, it’s a good time to inspect everything that has been covered in snow. We’ve put together a check list of maintenance items that are important to check after Winter.
Inspect Your Roof
Once the snow clears and it’s safe to get up there, hire a professional or climb up yourself to inspect for any damage. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against water damage inside. Fixing damaged spots quickly is important to prevent and water leaks and damage on the inside.
Clean Your Gutters.
Gutters direct rain and water away from your roof and home, protecting both in the process. Make sure gutters are clear of debris and still in good condition after Winter to help prevent water from damaging your home or roof.
Clean or Replace HVAC Filters
This should be done more than once a year. A dirty filter forces your heat, ventilation and air-conditioning system to work harder, which can cost you more money.
Clean Decks, Driveways, Fences and Other Outside Surfaces
A pressure washer is the perfect tool to get this job done. If you don’t have one, borrow one from a neighbor or consider renting one. While you’re cleaning, inspect for any damage.
Fix Cracks in Your Walks, Driveway and the Outside of Your Home
After cleaning, inspect all the concrete and check for any cracks or needed repairs. Fortunately, most of these repairs are fairly easy if taken care of early on.
Clean Your Dryer Vent
Sometimes lint can get through the lint trap and move into the dryer vent. Not only can a clogged dryer vent cost you more money by causing your dryer to run longer, it can also be a fire hazard.
Check Seals Around Windows and Doors
Harsh Winter weather can crack and harden caulk and other weather seals around your windows and doors. Now is a good time inspect them and repair or replace if needed. It could help reduce your air-conditioning bill and prevent water from entering your home and causing damage.
Repair any Cracked or Peeling Paint
A well-painted home increases curb appeal while providing a protective barrier from the elements. Touch-up painting is easy to do and inexpensive.
Check the Washing Machine Fill Hose
A leaky hose under pressure can cause major damage in a short period of time, so you want to look for cracks that could become leaks.
Clean and Repair Your Screens
Soon, the weather in Bozeman will be amazing and you’ll want the windows open to let in that cool breeze. Give your window screens a gentle scrub on a flat surface with soapy water. Also, check for any small holes that need to be patched.
Vacuum your Refrigerator Coils
The coils you’ll find on the bottom or back of your fridge conduct the hot air from inside the unit. If they’re coated with dust, they do the job less efficiently and cause your refrigerator to work harder; that means a higher electric bill for you. Use a vacuum cleaner hose or a brush on the coils.
Replace the Batteries in Your Smoke Detectors
Go ahead and replace all the batteries in your detectors, better to be safe than sorry!
Clear Vegetation Around Your AC Compressor
To work efficiently, the compressor needs good airflow. To ensure it has breathing room, prune any plant growth that could block it.
Drain Your Water Heater
Sediment builds up in your water heater tank. Use the spigot near the bottom of the heater to drain it. By doing so, you’ll prolong its life and reduce your electric bill.
Prepare Your Lawn Mower for Summer
Change the engine oil and sharpen the cutting blade; you’ll lengthen the life of the mower and improve the look of your lawn.