Spring Home Maintenance

As winter comes to an end, the weather is getting warmer and the sun is shining just a little brighter. It’s the perfect time for some routine spring home maintenance!

The key to success with this slightly daunting task is to create and follow a checklist. Luckily, we’ve put one together for you! So, follow along to ensure that your home is ready inside and out for the spring season!

Interior

◊ Examine your home’s foundation walls for cracks, leaks or signs of moisture, and repair as required.

◊ Consult your hot water tank’s operating manual on how to carefully test the temperature and check the pressure relief valve to ensure it is not stuck. Warning: Proceed with caution to avoid getting burned during testing as hot water may be released

◊ During the heating season, check and clean or replace furnace air filters every month. Ventilation system filters (such as a heat recovery ventilator) should be checked every two months.

◊ Shut down, drain and clean your furnace humidifier. Close the furnace humidifier damper on units with central air conditioning.

◊ Turn on power to your air conditioning to ensure it is operating properly. Have it serviced every two or three years. Clean or replace the air conditioner filter, if applicable.

◊ Check and drain your dehumidifier and clean it out if necessary.

◊ Fireplaces, wood stoves and chimneys should be inspected, cleaned and serviced if needed.

◊ If your home has a sump pump, ensure it is operating properly before the spring thaw starts. Verify the discharge pipe is connected tightly and allows water to drain away from your foundation.

◊ Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and clean if necessary. Replace batteries for each.

Exterior

◊ Open the valve to the outside hose connection once temperatures are consistently high enough that there is no danger of frost.

◊ Check eavestroughs and downspouts for loose joints and clear any obstructions and debris from the winter to ensure water flows away from your foundation.

◊ Clean all windows, screens and exterior hardware.

◊ Check for and seal off any holes in exterior cladding that could be an entry point for small pests such as bats and squirrels.

◊ Clear any drainage ditches and culverts of debris.

◊ Check patio stones, walkways, and stairs for any cracks or shifting due to frost upheaval. Repair as required.