Seasonal Specials

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Summer Maintenance Tips

1. 1. Replace or clean your furnace filter. It should be checked once a month and replaced or cleaned as needed. Some filters are reusable and are supposed to be taken out, washed with a hose and re-inserted. A dirty filter can lower the efficiency of the heating/cooling system, increase heating costs and cause fires.

1. 1. Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter. Keeping this clean of cooking grease will help keep a stovetop fire from spreading.

1. 1. Clean gutters and check for loose or leaky gutters. Improper drainage can lead to water in the basement or crawl space. Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear and free of debris.

1. 1. Check for damage to your roof. Signs include missing, curling, cupping, broken or cracked shingles. Pooling or ponds of water that fail to drain from flat roofs may indicate low areas and inadequate drainage.

1. 1. Check all the fascia and trim for deterioration. These areas can become weathered and worn and may lead to potential water damage.

1. 1. Check the shutoff valve at each plumbing fixture to make sure they function. Know the location of all valves and what equipment and water lines they serve. Teach all family members.

1. 1. Close vents to your crawl space. This will help keep the air in the space warmer, reducing your heating bill and helping prevent exposed pipes from freezing.

1. 1. Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer. Poor maintenance allows lint to build up in the exhaust duct and may cause a fire.

1. 1. Check the attic for adequate ventilation. Check the exterior wall to be sure the ceiling insulation is not blocking the outside air from the soffit vents from getting into the attic. Make sure the attic has plenty of vents.

1. 1. Check water hoses on the clothes washer, refrigerator ice maker and dishwasher for cracks and bubbles. Make sure the connections are tight and replace hoses that show signs of leaking.

1. 1. Test all ground-fault-circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlets. These need to be tripped and reset once a month. If they do not trip or reset, have the outlet changed by a qualified electrician. These types of outlets are required around wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens to offer protection against shock.

1. Store firewood at least 30 feet away from your home. This will reduce a homes fire load and the chance of attracting termites.