Can you believe Spring has almost sprung? Daylight Savings Time has begun, and Spring is just around the corner. As a homeowner, we can look at the bi-annual clock changes as a good time to handle home maintenance. But what to do? Here are a few tips on things to check now – and every time - you change the clocks:
1. Change Batteries in Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detectors
There is nothing more irritating that waking in the middle of the night to a beeping smoke detector. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that you replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors bi-annually – with the time changes – in order to prevent this from happening, and more importantly, to keep them in good working condition.
2. Seal Air Leaks
With the warmer weather coming, the last thing you want is a warm draft coming in through nooks and crannies, running up your electric bills. Have a professional locate air leaks and broken seals, and then seal those leaks with caulk, spray foam, or weather stripping.
3. Rotate Ceiling Fan Blades
The Department of Energy recommends changing the direction your ceiling fan blades go, according to the time of year. In warmer months – as we are about to encounter – your blades should be rotating counterclockwise.
4. Drain the Hot Water Heater
Sediment can build up in a water heater overtime, so it’s important to drain it periodically in order to prevent this build up from occurring.
5. Change Air Filters
Air filters should really be changed every 3 months, but at the very least, use the clock change as your opportunity to change the filters – should you have forgotten. Remember, you have 2 sets of lungs in the home, one is the set in your body; the other is the HVAC system. And if it’s not properly maintained, it does affect the air quality you are breathing.
Need help performing these and other home maintenance in Plano? Give Castle Doctor a call today! With affordable monthly subscription plans, a Plano handyman is always just a call away. Our team prides itself on keeping major home issues at bay by maintaining your home at the highest level.
