By Adam Laverack
With the seasons changing from spring to summer, the time to start thinking about some basic preventative maintenance tasks is at hand. If you have not gotten to this relatively short list yet, worry not, there is no time like the present. As spring turns to summer, life gets busy and sometimes even hectic, what with all the outdoor activities and vacations seeming to happen all at once. Yet, nature continues to run its course regardless of how busy we are; the wind keeps blowing, the rain keeps falling and the sun will still bring the heat, so here is a short list of to-dos, which if done now and regularly can help to avoid costly repairs in the not-too-distant future.
As far as the order of importance, it’s safe to say that checking the smoke and CO2 detectors monthly should always be a priority, and while you’re at it, you should check and clean the filters in your kitchen hood vents, as well as the dryer vent, since both smoke detectors and vent filters are directly related to fire safety.
Changing the air handler filters that control not only the air quality coming from your your furnace and AC but also keep these systems running smoothly is essential. Depending on how your systems filters are rated, these should be changed every 30 to 90 days.
Next on the list should be to check the roof and gutters for debris. The gutters should normally be cleaned either twice annually or quarterly depending on the number of trees around the house. While on the subject of trees, it is a good idea to inspect your roof for debris such as sitting leaves and limbs every late spring, once all the fall leaves have finished dropping.
Of special interest to city dwellers, one should check the exterior doorknobs and locks to make sure they are tight and secure – once in the spring and once in the fall, tightening any screws that may work loose from their constant daily usage.
Every fall, be sure to check the sump pump in the basement or crawl space if you have one (or more). It is important to make sure these are in working order to avoid pooling water or flooding, especially in older houses where water intrusion may be frequent. If you didn’t get to this last fall, go ahead and check it now as with spring comes spring and summer showers.
Finally, another great thing to check along with the sump pump is if any vines or ivy have started to grow up the side of the house. In my opinion, fall is the best time of year for this as the plants will still be pliable and easier to remove before they go dormant and become brittle, hence tending to break apart and become more difficult to separate from whatever surface they are clinging to. Remember, a healthy house leads to its occupants living happier and healthier lives, so get out there, get it done and enjoy the summer!
