Spring Tips
Inside DIY
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Test & replace batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when you set your clocks forward each spring. Each sleeping level of a home must have both detectors installed and each has an expiry date as to when the device must be replaced with a new one. This information can be found on the device as well.
If your basement has a sump pump, test it by dumping a large bucket of water into the basin of the sump pump. This should activate the sump pump. If it does not switch on or if it’s not pumping water, it may need to be serviced by a professional. Also, check for and remove any debris and make sure there are no leaks.
Dust blinds and vacuum curtains throughout your house. If they smell old, consider replacing or check if they are washable.
Clean inside kitchen and bathroom cabinets and throw away outdated food, medicine and cosmetics.
Inspect your attic to make sure there are no animal nests or signs of rodent damage. Test to see if attic fan is working properly and if it needs to cleaned of cob webs or debris.
Have your air conditioner professionally inspected and serviced before the summer heat arrives. HVAC companies are booked up fast when the heat hits. A maintenance will extend the life of your air conditioner.
Reset your circuit panel and breakers to test their functionality. Look for any signs of electrical charring and make sure each breaker is labeled correctly. All wires leading to the panel should be organized, and not a tangled rat’s nest.
Outside DIY
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Clean gutters and downspouts once the winter snow and ice have melted. This will extended the life span of your gutters.
Inspect roof and chimney for cracks and damage. Preventing small leaks can head off serious problems down the line. Make sure you practice ladder safety when you go onto your roof.
Wash all windows, inside and out.
Install or repair damaged screens on windows and doors to keep bugs out of your home. Patch kits are a great cost effective way to extend the life of your window screens.
Touch up peeling or damaged paint on your house. If you have plastic siding, soap it down and wash it with your garden house. Careful using a power washer as it may damage or loosen the siding. For brick homes, power washing is a good option always use a lower pressure setting when power washing and avoid your windows.
Take out your furniture and air out the cushions. If you patio furniture was left outside, clean it with soap and water to remove the dirt left by winter weather.
Get your grass gutting lawn mower ready for the warmer weather by following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance tips.
Fertilize your lawn and look for any spot that the grass has died. Replace dying patches with new sod.
DIY Spring Checklist
Protect your home against strong wind and rain. Once the ground has thawed and the trees begin to bud, it’s time to prepare your home for spring. On top of your regular spring cleaning, you’ll also want to consider these general upkeep tips. Use our spring home maintenance checklist to make sure everything in your home, from the basement to the roof, is in tip-top shape:
