Home operation and maintenance can prove to be quite easy if we understand what needs to be done and perform all of the required maintenance on time. Just like owning a car where you change the oil every three thousand miles and check the brakes and the spark plugs every fifteen thousand miles, you should regularly maintain your home.

Finally, Winter is over. April showers bring May flowers. In order to run our home more efficiently and get our home ready for summer and landscaping, we need to perform some routine maintenance.

Caution should be used when attempting to follow any or all of these maintenance tips. Only perform these operations if you have the know-how and proper skill to take on these tasks. Remember to follow all manufacturers' instructions, disconnect the power, gas, water, etc., and if you have questions always consult with a professional. We are not responsible for any content shown, we assume no liability for improper maintenance, damage, or injury, and leave you to perform any tasks AT YOUR OWN RISK.

• Smoke alarms, Carbon Monoxide detectors, and Fire extinguishers    Replace all batteries and check that all levels and gauges are in the correct positions and none have expired.
  
  
• Gutters    Clean gutters, and make sure downspouts are attached and extended away from the foundation.
  
  
• Air conditioning    Check that the unit is level and clean and has proper clearance. Adjust main duct dampers for cooling season. Contact a HVAC professional to service the system.
  
  
• Humidifier    Turn off unit and water supply. Switch humidifier's duct damper to cooling setting. Drain any remaining water from humidifier.
  
  
• High and low returns    If necessary, open high returns and close low returns for cooling season.
  
  
• Whole house fan    Check belt; lubricate and clean.
  
  
• Roof    Check for damage and trim trees as needed.
  
  
• Roof vents    Check for damage and holes in screens and repair as necessary.
  
  
• Chimney    Inspect for damage to cap, flashing, and masonry.
  
  
• Roof    Check for damage and trim trees as needed.
  
  
• Exterior    Check condition of paint, caulk, and putty. Check landscaping to ensure that grading slopes away from the foundation. Check that all bushes and shrubs are not in contact with the siding.
  
  
• Attic    Check for signs of leaks, mildew, or condensation.
  
  
• Basement    Check for signs of leaks, cracks, movement, or mildew.
  
  
• Crawl space    Check for adequate ventilation to remove excess moisture.
  
  
• Dehumidifier    Clean; prepare for use, if necessary.
  
  
• Plumbing    Open outside hose faucet shutoffs.
  
  
• Sprinkler system    Service and start system.
  
  
• Decks    Clean and seal as necessary. Check guardrails and handrails for looseness and repair accordingly.
  
  
• Sump pump    Test the operation of the sump pump to make sure that any water that enters the sump pit is removed. Consider getting a battery backup in case the power goes out.
  
  
• Washing Machine    Check the supply hoses for damage. Consider upgrading rubber hoses to metal hoses to prevent failure of the hoses. Check the screens in the hose connections and make sure the discharge is not clogged and is properly discharging into the plumbing system.
  
  
• Doors and Hardware    Lubricate the hinges and all moving parts.
  
  
• Septic System    Have the septic tank professionally pumped at least every two years.
  
  
• Water Softener    Clean the brine tank and screens or filters as needed.
  
  
• Well System    Have the water tested for bacteria and other contaminants. And check the pressure tank for operation.
  
  
• Fireplace    Schedule cleaning and inspection as needed, depending on use.
  
  
• Water Filters    Replace the water filters as needed per manufacturer's recommendations.
  
  
• Gas Appliances    Check the flexible gas connectors for the stove, dryer, etc.
  
  
• Range Hood    Clean the filter and fan to allow for proper operation.
  
  
• Shutoffs    Periodically review all utility disconnects/shutoffs with your family in the event of an emergency.
  
  
• Termites    Schedule professional inspections and service as needed.
  
  
• Electrical    Eliminate the use of electrical cords, especially those used for holiday decorations.
  
  
• Water heater    Follow manufacturer's recommendations for annual cleaning and/or tests and replace any leaking valves.
  
  

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