Now is the perfect time of year to start thinking about spring cleaning and seasonal maintenance. While most people think about dusting and cleaning windows, there are a lot of other things that you can do to keep your home in tip-top condition. Learn more Spring Cleaning Tips!
At Budget Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we know that regular maintenance is essential to keep your home’s HVAC and plumbing systems running smoothly. But in this blog, we want to focus on some other aspects of spring cleaning and maintenance, such as appliances, foundation, masonry, and general cleaning tips.
Appliances
Your refrigerator, washer and dryer, oven, and stovetop are all important appliances that need to be maintained regularly. Here are some tips on how to keep them in good condition:
- Refrigerator: Clean the condenser coils at least once a year. You can do this by unplugging the fridge and vacuuming the coils. Also, check the door seals to make sure they are tight and replace them if necessary. This will keep your fridge running efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills.
- Washer and Dryer: Clean the lint trap on your dryer after every load. Not only does this help the dryer run more efficiently, but it also reduces the risk of a dryer fire. For your washing machine, run a cycle with hot water and vinegar to remove any buildup and reduce unpleasant smells.
- Oven and Stovetop: Clean your oven and stovetop regularly to prevent grease and grime buildup. Use a baking soda and water solution to clean the inside of your oven, and use a standard stove cleaner for the stovetop. Also, check the oven door gasket for any tears or damage.
Foundation & Masonry
Your home’s foundation and masonry are important to maintain, especially after a long winter that could have caused damage from the cold. Here are some tips to keep them in good condition:
- Inspect your foundation for cracks or other damage. Small cracks can be filled with a concrete sealer, but larger cracks may require professional repair.
- Clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent water from pooling around your foundation. This can cause damage and even lead to flooding in your basement.
- Inspect your masonry for any damage, such as cracks or loose bricks. If you notice any issues, it’s best to have a professional come and assess the damage.
General Cleaning & Organization Tips
Now let’s move on to general cleaning and organization tips. These tips can help you keep your home clean and clutter-free.
- Declutter Your Home: Go through each room and get rid of anything that you no longer need or use. This will not only make your home look cleaner, but it will also give you more space to organize the things you do need.
- Clean your windows and windowsills. Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean your windows. For the windowsills, use a vacuum to remove any dirt and debris, followed by an antibacterial cleanser.
- Clean your light fixtures and ceiling fans. Use a duster or a microfiber cloth to clean your light fixtures and ceiling fans. This will improve the air quality in your home and reduce the risk of allergies.
HVAC, Plumbing, & Sump Pumps
- HVAC: Change your air filter regularly, ideally every 30-60 days depending on the filter type and usage. This will improve your indoor air quality and help your HVAC system run more efficiently.
- Plumbing: Inspect your pipes for any leaks or damage. Also, check your water heater for any signs of wear and tear, such as rust or corrosion. If you notice any issues, it’s best to have a professional plumber come and assess the damage.
- Sump Pumps: Inspect your sump pump’s power source and make sure it’s plugged in and working properly. Then, inspect the pump and pit for any signs of damage or debris buildup. Clean the pump and pit thoroughly and test the float switch to ensure it’s working correctly. Finally, test the pump by pouring water into the pit and making sure it activates and pumps the water out properly. If you notice any issues during the inspection, it’s best to have a professional plumber come and assess the sump pump and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Spring cleaning and maintenance is essential to keep your home prepared for the coming months. By following these tips, you can ensure that your appliances, foundation, masonry, and general cleaning and organization are all in excellent condition.
Don’t forget to also prioritize the maintenance of your HVAC and plumbing systems. Regular inspections and repairs can save you money in the long run and prevent costly repairs down the line.