Spring Maintenance Essentials: Interior, Exterior, and Auto Care

• Inspect and Clean Gutters: Winter debris can accumulate in your gutters, leading to clogs and potential water damage. Take the time to inspect and clean them thoroughly, ensuring proper drainage away from your home’s foundation.
• Check Roof for Damage: Winter storms may have caused damage to your roof, such as loose or missing shingles. Inspect your roof carefully for any signs of damage and make repairs promptly to prevent leaks and further deterioration.
• Trim Trees and Bushes: Overgrown trees and bushes can pose a risk to your home during severe weather. Trim back branches and shrubs to prevent them from coming into contact with your house or blocking sunlight from reaching your windows and siding.
• Inspect and Clean Outdoor HVAC Units: Before the hot weather arrives, inspect your outdoor HVAC units for any debris or damage. Clean the units and surrounding area to ensure optimal performance and efficiency throughout the summer months.
• Seal Windows and Doors: Check the seals around your windows and doors for any cracks or gaps that may have developed over the winter. Proper sealing will help improve energy efficiency and keep your home comfortable during the warmer months.

• Service Your HVAC System: Schedule a professional HVAC service to inspect and tune up your heating and cooling systems. This will ensure they are running efficiently and help prevent costly breakdowns when you need them most.
• Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Spring is an excellent time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if necessary. These devices are crucial for keeping your family safe year-round.
• Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery: Give your carpets and upholstery a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, dust, and allergens that may have accumulated over the winter months. Consider hiring a professional service for a deep clean.
• Inspect Plumbing for Leaks: Check under sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances for any signs of water leaks. Addressing leaks promptly can prevent water damage and mold growth, saving you time and money in the long run.
• Window Care: Caulking  and weather-stripping are simple, cost-effective fixes for stationary cracks, gaps, or joins less than 1/4″ wide.  Window treatments, such as blinds or drapes, can help aesthetically improve your home while providing energy savings. For additional info, check out the the US. Department of Energy’s recommendations here.
• Declutter and Organize Take advantage of spring cleaning to declutter and organize your home.

Tuning-up your car

• Check Tire Pressure and Tread: Proper tire maintenance is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency. Check the air pressure and inspect the tread for wear. Consider rotating your tires and investing in a set of summer tires if needed.
• Replace Wiper Blades: Winter weather can take a toll on your windshield wipers, causing them to become worn or cracked. Replace old wipers with new ones to ensure clear visibility during spring showers.
• Top-off Fluids: Check the levels of essential fluids in your vehicle, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Fill those that are low and replace any that are dirty.
• Inspect Brakes and Suspension: Have a professional mechanic inspect your brakes and suspension systems for signs of wear or damage. Addressing any issues early can prevent safety hazards and costly repairs down the road.
• Clean and Detail Interior and Exterior: Give your car a thorough cleaning inside and out to remove winter grime and salt buildup. A clean car not only looks better but also helps protect the paint and interior surfaces from damage.