Homeowner Tips: Home Maintenance Checklist

Homeowner Tips: Home Maintenance Checklist

Maintaining your home throughout the year can not only ensure your home is running efficiently, but it can also prevent problems that could otherwise creep up later. This very hot month of August, the focus of home maintenance is air conditioning units (for obvious reasons) and other easy-to-overlook areas. Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford provides 7 items to take care of this August to keep your home in tip-top shape.

1. Replace air conditioner filter

It is recommended to replace your heating and cooling air filter, preferably one rated to remove mold, pollen and other particles, every 1 to 3 months. To make the process easier the next time you go to replace the filter, be sure to put a sticker on the cover that includes information such as the size of the filter and the date it needs to be replaced.

2. Clean air conditioner drain line

Check the air conditioner drain line for clogs by pouring a cup of water down the access line while another person watches where the pipe exits at the exterior of the home. If the water is slow to drain or doesn’t drain at all, you’ll know there is a clog to remove. If you want to prevent future clogs in your drain line, you can pour a cup of bleach down the access pipe.

3. Clean and maintain bathroom vent fan

Clean the vent fan in your bathroom thoroughly once each year in order for it to run quietly and efficiently. During this time, check to be sure the fan is working properly, and if not, replace the vent fan motor.

4. Clean range hood filter and fan

Regularly clean the range hood or microwave fan to remove excess grease. Don’t forget to clean the grease filter and fan blades, if they are accessible.

5. Clean refrigerator coils

It is important to regularly vacuum your refrigerator coils, which are located either at the back of the refrigerator or behind the kickplate. You’ll want to unplug your refrigerator any time you move the unit or are vacuuming the coils.

6. Clean refrigerator door gasket

Cleaning the door gaskets enables you to check for cracks or tears. You’ll want to make sure the refrigerator door is aligned squarely on the hinges for a proper seal.

7. Test refrigerator door seal

Place a dollar bill between the gasket and the refrigerator. Close the refrigerator door and try to pull the dollar bill out. You should feel resistance as you pull on the dollar bill. If you’re able to pull the dollar bill out easily, you may need to adjust the seal, either by re-aligning the refrigerator door or replacing the gasket.

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We hope these tips from a pro help to get your home insect free. Share your success on our TERRO Facebook Page and be sure to sign up for our enewsletter for other helpful tips and tricks.

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