Spring has officially arrived! With changing seasons comes differing home maintenance needs. Your home made it through the winter, so let's ensure it is ready for the spring season with these home maintenance tips.
1.Replace your HVAC air filters
It's important to change the air filters in your home at least every 3 months. Replacing your air filters frequently will help improve the air quality in your home, improve energy efficiency, extend the life of your HVAC unit, lessen the frequency that repairs are needed, and help with better temperature control in your home.
2. Service your air conditioning unit
Not only is replacing the air filters a critical task on the checklist, but it's also a good idea to get your air conditioning unit serviced by a professional. With the warm months coming ahead, it's important to make sure your unit is in shape to be working at the best of its ability.
3. Clean windows and screens
Not only are dirty windows an eyesore for a home, but they can also lead to issues with energy efficiency. You can hire a professional or opt to clean them yourself. If you choose the latter, then here are some tips for effective window and screen cleaning:
Windows
- First, if the windows have dust or dirt then start by using a clean and dry microfiber cloth to remove any excess, in order to reduce streaks.
- White vinegar is a great all-purpose cleaner that will leave your windows streak free.
- Make a 50/50 mix consisting of white vinegar and hot water.
- Use a bucket or a bowl and apply your 50/50 mix with a sponge or microfiber cloth.
- NOTE: If you prefer to use a spray bottle then make the solution a bit weaker since the acidity of the vinegar can damage the spray mechanism.
- Wash the window from top to bottom using your cleaning solution.
- Use a squeegee or cloth to dry the cleaning liquid.
Window Screens
- First remove the window screens from the windows.
- Use the hose attachment on a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and debris on both sides of the screens.
- Make a solution of hot soapy water and soak the screens in it for 10-15 minutes in order to loosen remaining dirt and stains.
- Use a microfiber cloth with fresh water to clean the soap from the screens.
- Let the screens dry outside before placing them back on the window.
4. Inspect the exterior of your home for any damage
The winter weather can be harsh on the exterior of your home. So, you will want to conduct an inspection to find any potential damage.
- Inspect the roof for any loose or missing shingles.
- Check your gutters and clean out any debris.
- Inspect the siding for any damage.
5. Refresh your outdoor spaces
Give your yard a little refresh by removing any debris, trimming trees and shrubs, planting new flowers/plants, adding a fresh layer of topsoil, reseeding any necessary grass patches, and cleaning your patio/deck.
6. Declutter your spaces
We've all heard of spring cleaning! It's the perfect time to declutter your home by removing any items that you no longer need or want, both inside your home and in your garage.
