Winter Home Maintenance
Checklist: Keep Your Home Running Smoothly
As the winter season progresses, it’s important to take proactive steps to maintain your home and ensure its systems are functioning properly. At Almar Building & Remodeling, our team been helping families in the Massachusetts area make homes comfortable and safe for over 65 years. Here’s a helpful checklist to get you started with your winter home maintenance:
Improve Indoor Air Quality and System Efficiency
Change Furnace Filters Regularly: Dirty air filters restrict airflow, reducing your furnace’s efficiency and increasing energy bills. To maximize system performance and improve indoor air quality, we recommend changing your air filters monthly during the winter season.
Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors: These lifesaving devices are essential for your safety. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and replace the batteries annually. If you don’t have detectors on every floor of your home, or if your current detectors are more than 10 years old, call a qualified electrician to have them inspected and serviced.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Costly Repairs
Tighten Loose Fixtures: Over time, knobs, handles, and racks can become loose. A quick inspection and tightening can prevent them from becoming damaged and in need of replacement.
Clean Range Hood Filters: Range hood filters trap grease and prevent it from circulating back into your kitchen. To maintain optimal performance, clean your range hood filters monthly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A clogged filter reduces the effectiveness of your range hood and can pose a fire hazard.
Inspect Your Basement Regularly: Your basement is a vital part of your home’s foundation. Look for signs of water leaks, cracks, or mold growth. A clear path to access utilities is also important. If you notice any issues, contact a professional for further evaluation.
Extend the Life of Your Appliances
Vacuum Refrigerator Coils: Dirty condenser coils can hinder your refrigerator’s ability to cool efficiently, leading to increased energy consumption and reduced lifespan. Vacuum the coils on the back or bottom of your refrigerator twice a year, or more often if you have pets that shed fur.
Run Water in Unused Spaces: Preventative measures can help avoid problems down the line. Run water and flush toilets in unoccupied areas of your home periodically to prevent pipes from freezing or becoming clogged.
Simple Maintenance for a Healthier Home
Clean Your Garbage Disposal: Odor can start in your garbage disposal. To eliminate odors and keep your disposal functioning properly, use a combination of ice cubes, baking soda, and citrus rinds to grind and deodorize.
Remodeling can Help with Home Maintenance
Remodeling your home can significantly improve your homes overall maintenance needs. By upgrading outdated systems with modern, energy-efficient alternatives, you reduce the likelihood of costly repairs and breakdowns. For example, replacing an old, inefficient furnace with a new high-efficiency model can decrease energy consumption and lower your utility bills. Similarly, installing new windows and doors can improve insulation, reducing drafts and minimizing energy loss. Furthermore, remodeling projects often involve addressing underlying issues, such as water damage or structural weaknesses, preventing future problems and enhancing the long-term durability of your home
Almar Building & Remodeling: Your Trusted Partner for Home Improvement
At Almar Building & Remodeling, we understand the importance of preventative home maintenance. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure your home’s systems are operating efficiently and avoid costly repairs in the long run. Our team of experienced professionals is always happy to answer your questions and provide expert advice on any home maintenance or improvement project. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. 781-826-2577
