Sometimes home improvement starts with a maintenance update. Several areas of your home need regular attention, but where do you start and how often do these tasks need to be performed? We're glad you asked! Our very best list follows:
Change Your HVAC Filters
Your furnace circulates air throughout your home. Special furnace filters remove allergens, dust and debris from your indoor air. These filters should be changed every 2 to 4 months, depending on the HVAC system you have and whether you have pets or smokers in the house.
WHO YA GONNA CALL? See Branson HVAC, or Patriot Heat & Air at the Branson Home Show!
How Are Your Windows?
Is there condensation between your window panes or a milky appearance to the glass? That could mean a broken seal, causing heat loss.
WHO YA GONNA CALL? See Binswanger Glass, Renewal by Andersen or St. Clair of the Ozarks at the Branson Home Show!
Deep Clean Your Bathroom and Kitchen
Your entire home could use a deep cleaning at least once a year, but some areas will need it more often...and that's your kitchen and bathroom areas. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to hit those areas that you’d rather not tackle.
WHO YA GONNA CALL? See Serv-Pro, Inc. at the Branson Home Show!
Inspect Your Major Appliances
You don't really think about those major household appliances until one of them quits working! Don't do that! Some easy maintenance can help you avoid a major expense down the road. On your refrigerator or freezer, make sure the condenser coils are clean, and change the air and water filters at least every six months. Don't forget to clean the gasket on the door, and make sure it seals properly every time. If your dishwasher has a filter, make sure to clean it periodically, and clean out the food trap. Once every three months, run the machine empty with 1 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup baking soda. This will help remove build-up and make it sweet smelling too! Your oven/range needs regular cleaning, of course, but don't forget the vent fan filter. Take it out and wash it with hot, soapy water twice a year. Have you ever washed your washing machine? The same method to clean your dishwasher - 1 cup of vinegar plus 1/2 cup baking soda - can be used to clean the washer. Check the exhaust vent on your dryer frequently and remove any lint you find.
Check Your Drains and Water Pressure
Clear / unclog slow drains before they become a major problem. Be sure to clean faucet aerators of calcium buildup. It’s also important to look for less obvious plumbing problems. You can do this by checking your water pressure with a pressure gauge annually to avoid putting unnecessary stress on your plumbing. If it reads high, you’ll need to service your water pressure regulator.
WHO YA GONNA CALL? See L&J Plumbing Supply or Mr. Rooter Plumbing at the Branson Home Show!
Clean Your Carpets
In addition to regularly vacuuming carpeted areas throughout your home, we recommend getting high-trafficked areas professionally cleaned at least once a year. This maintenance task goes a long way to extending the life of your carpets – and keeps your home smelling fresh!
WHO YA GONNA CALL? For carpet cleaning, see Serv-Pro. For new carpet, see Bearden Carpet or Trinity Flooring, all at the Branson Home Show!
Test Your GFCI Outlets
GFCI is short for “ground fault circuit interrupters.” The purpose of these outlets is stop the flow of electricity when an imbalance is detected. Basically, it protects you from the risk of electrical shock. Test outlets once a month, especially those located in moist environments.
WHO YA GONNA CALL? See Lightspeed Electrical Services or Wholesale Electric Supply at the Branson Home Show!
Wash Your Windows, Inside and Out
Keep your windows clean and spot free with regular interior and exterior window cleanings. This is especially important here, where we have lots of pollen. A squeegee and a bucket of soapy water for best results.
Pressure Wash Your Deck/Siding, Clean Your Gutters
Pressure washing not only makes your deck and siding look great, it can also reduce wear and tear by getting rid of mold, algae, chalk, insects, weeds and more. And while you’re at it, get those gutters cleaned and repaired as well.
WHO YA GONNA CALL? For new gutters, see Greater Ozarks Exteriors, LeafFilter North of Missouri,
