Now that the holidays are over, it is time for you to focus on that lengthy to-do list you’ve been putting off for weeks. For many, this means giving their home a tune up. It is common to let some things go during the wintertime, so here’s a home maintenance checklist to ensure your home is in its best shape from top to bottom.

Check the HVAC filter

You could be breathing in microscopic particles of dust without even realizing it, all due to an old HVAC filter. As a best practice, change your filter every month to breathe the cleanest air possible. Here’s a commercial HVAC contractor tip for you: write the date you changed your filter on the actual filter in pencil. If you’ve forgotten when you changed it, pull out the filter and look for what you’ve written. When you cannot see the date clearly, it is time for a new one!

Look around your basement for leaks

It can be hard to notice leaks during the colder season, so wait for a warmer day and do a good inspection around your basement and foundation. Lookfor water stains, cracks, and leaks; its most helpful to do so on the first sunny day after a big storm.

Inspect your gutters

Garden care may be a bit hard when the ground is frozen, but remember that your yard is much more than just grass and other plants. A well working gutter can be the difference between a flooded or dry yard and basement, so make it a habit of checking your gutters and downspouts after any storm. Always point your downspouts at least two feet away from your home on sloped ground, check that there are no loose bolts or cracks in your gutters, and regularly clear the gutters of any debris like leaves and dirt.

Don’t forget your plumbing

Plumbing can be your worst nightmare in the winter—think frozen, burst pipesif you are not careful. To prevent this issue, regularly run water in all areas of your home. If you find that water is clogging or suspect any other issues with your piping, it’s best to count on expert services, such as Marvel Sewer drain cleaning to help you get things working again.

Get a professional to clean your chimney

Dirty chimneys can trap and harbor dangerous gases without you even knowing it. Your chimney should be professionally inspected annually, so if you haven’t done so yet, it’s best to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Run a smoke detector test

According to the National Fire Protection Association, a whopping two-thirds of home fire deaths happened in a home without working smoke detectors. Check the batteries of your smoke detectors every six months, once in the summer and once right after the holidays. Additionally, if you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector, now is a good time to invest in one. Don’t risk your family’s safety and run a multiple battery tests so you can have peace of mind.

Vacuum refrigerator coils

A dusty, dirty refrigerator can potentially use up to 15% of your home’s energy use. Cut this number down while ensuring the fridge runs as efficiently as possible by vacuuming the coils every other year.

Replenish your water softener

If you have a water softener in your home, it needs salt to work effectively. You most likely don’t need to add salt every month, but it is something to keep in the back of your mind once winter rolls around. Best of all, it only takes about a minute to do.

With this checklist in mind, you’ll be on your way to having a clean, efficient, and safe home to enjoy all winter long.

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Clare Louise