As the spring thaw begins and the days get warmer, it’s a good idea to take care of your home after a long, harsh winter. Routine spring maintenance to clean and restore the following mechanical features and systems in your home will ensure your home is in good working order throughout the season, and in some cases, all year long.

Disclaimer: Regular care and maintenance of your home not only increases the longevity of your property, it also helps prevent costly repairs and prolongs its value. The following maintenance steps should not replace the manufacturer’s recommendations. Products used for cleaning and supporting functionality of your home systems and features must be approved by the manufacturer. We strongly recommend that you use licensed contractors for any task that requires the technical knowledge and / or physical ability to perform it without injuring yourself or damaging your home.

The interior of your home will be more comfortable if you handle non-serviced items negligently.

Inspect and service your air conditioning system. Check if the air filter needs to be changed; dirty and clogged filters reduce air flow.
If you have an Air Handling Unit (AHU) equipped with a float switch or overflow tray, make sure they are clear of obstructions and are working properly.
Clean interior air extractors. To do this thoroughly, remove the fan cover. Vacuum the inside of the fan housing and around the motor. Clean the cover before reinstalling it.
If you have a basement with a sump pump, check the pump to make sure it is working properly. Clean the pump screen and remove any dirt build-up from the well.
Inspect and repair the following caulked areas (inside and outside your home), as needed:
Wet kitchen and bathroom areas (i.e. sinks, dishwashers, dressers, showers, etc.)
Countertops, Backsplashes, Laminate Seals and Walls
Door and window seals
Building penetrations (i.e. hoses, taps, vents, chimneys, and vents)
Vinyl, aluminum or wood siding
Stucco or mortar cracks
Cracks in gypsum board from settling or interior shrinkage
* DO NOT caulk the underside of window trim, door trim, or siding. These spaces are designed to prevent moisture from being trapped within the structure of the house.

Replace the batteries in the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Exterior

Some of the features found outside your home work together with those inside to meet your needs. An example would be the AC condensing unit. Other items ensure the durability of your home against the elements and / or enhance its curb appeal.

Check your outdoor AC condenser unit for clogs and debris. Trim bushes, weeds, and lawns to prevent infiltration. (See manufacturer’s recommendations for additional maintenance steps.)
Inspect the roof for broken or missing shingles, shingles, or shakes.
Repair gaps in roof flashing and soffits.
Clean roof valleys and crickets to divert water from the roof.
Clean and repair gutters. Make sure gutters are free of material that could impede water flow. Make sure there are splash deflectors at the bottom of the downspouts to divert water from your home.
Clean windows and mosquito nets. Repair or replace damaged screens.
Lubricate window rails, latches and rollers with 100% silicone spray.
If you have sliding glass doors, clean the sliding doors and partitions. Repair or replace screens if damaged. Inspect the sweep or gasket for wear and replace if necessary. Vacuum and lubricate the door rails and then adjust the rollers as necessary.
Inspect your garage doors, rails, and locking system. Consult a professional before adjusting the tension. Clear debris tracks. Tighten all bolts and nuts. Lubricate the hinges and hardware with white lithium grease or spray as needed. Try the automatic reverse security features on the door (s) and also consider changing the garage door opener code as a security measure.
Turn on the water supply to the hose taps and outside taps. Check these outlets for leaks.