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:

  • 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.