Spring Home Maintenance Reminders

Since we are just starting this new section in the blog, we thought we would start with a quick reminder from spring time.  Next year it will be sent out on the first day of spring (3/20/13) but for now here you go with the first edition of Home Maintenance Reminders:

• Turn OFF gas furnace/fireplace pilot lights 
• Test sump pump and water alarm
• Remember to check GFI outlets, turn on and off circuit breakers, check smoke and carbon manoxide detectors next time we change clocks with daylight savings time
• Clean windows as you replace screens.  Make any necessary repairs to screens
• Flush out hot water tank to remove any sediment -  owner's manual will have how to information
• Test temperature and relief valve on hot water tank - owner's manual will have how to information
• Vacuum under fridge, clean condenser coils & Defrost freezer when ice is 1/4" thick
• Clean out basement and under decks
• Tune up lawnmower
• Rake & aerate lawn
• Clear gutters and downspouts, be sure water flows away from the house
• Turn toilet water supply off and then back on to prevent buildup and or rust that can cause the valve to get "stuck" over too many years of not being used

We will have more reminders in the weeks to come that include information about:

• When to change furnace filters
• When to change fridge water filters
• When to pour water down drains that are not used
• Etc.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact Kim Carnes.  

His information is available on the Carnes Home Inspection Website