Home Maintenance For A Healthy Home

Start with its internal organs:

  • Furnace - change filter every 3 months; inspected and serviced annually.
  • Air conditioner - clean leaves and other debris from around the unit.
  • Plumbing - make sure faucets are not leaking; drain the hot water heater 2 times a year (when you change clocks for daylight savings).
  • Fire and Smoke Alarms - change batteries when changing clock for daylight savings time.
  • Install foam backers on switch plates and outlets.

Outside:

  • Pruning trees and shrubs can be considered preventive maintenance. Many problems may be prevented by pruning correctly. It is recommended that you hire a Tree Specialist for major pruning projects, for both your health and safety, and the health of your trees and shrubs. For most trees the best pruning time is during the months ending with the letter "r", ie: September, October, etc.
  • Foundation - fill in low areas around the foundation so water will drain away from the house; seal cracks and holes; clean out window wells; remove small trees and seedlings growing along foundation and garage.
  • Walls - check surfaces for loose or peeling paint, cracks, loose siding, stucco; check trim for loose or peeling paint; decay, loose boards; check faucets for leaks; check caulking around pipes, vents and other wall penetrations.
  • Doors and Windows - check doors, windows and screens for operation, fit, decay, damage; check locks; caulk, caulk, caulk around window and doorframes. For more energy tips go to www.commerce.state.mn.us.
  • Roof - check roof for damage or wear; check eaves for squirrel holes, bird nests, peeling paint, loose boards, and prune branches of trees growing near roof.
  • Gutters - check for leaks, loose areas, damage and disconnected downspouts. Clean gutters and down spouts, check extensions or splash blocks (very important).
  • Chimney - check for loose bricks, gaps in mortar, other damage (use binoculars).
  • Garage - Check doors for good fit and proper operation, lubricate if needed; check locks, windows and electric fixtures; check roof, grade, and walls.
  • Steps, Sidewalks, Driveway - check all steps, sidewalks and railings, repair if needed; patch worn sections of driveways and coat asphalt with sealer.