Hannah Kolstad
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
Spring is just around the corner and, with it, a new set of challenges for the homeowner. With winter in the rearview, maybe pipe inspection, heating system maintenance and insulation aren’t still of the greatest concern. However, the advent of spring may cause other house-related systems to go awry, and ill-maintained appliances may be screaming for extra attention. Here are 10 ways to prepare your home for spring:
Check the smoke alarms. It is essential to replace the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors every six months. These can detect the presence of toxic gases within your home, and perfect functioning is of the utmost importance. After replacing the batteries, execute a test alarm on the detectors to make sure they work.
Clean out the dryer vent. The dryer vent on your dryer needs to be cleaned every six months to a year. To do so, first, unplug the dryer and disconnect the dryer duct. This is the long, often foil tube extending from the back of the dryer. Move the dryer away from the wall. Use the extension on your vacuum to clean inside the vent. Now is also a good time to conduct a rudimentary inspection of the dryer vent. Peer inside and check for any visible damage to it or the dryer duct. If no damages are noted, reconnect the dryer duct to the dryer vent. Be sure to run the dryer for 15 to 20 minutes on a light setting, such as “fluff” or “air dry,” in order to make sure everything works. Following this process, cleaning the lint trap regularly can keep the dryer vent cleaner and prevent fire hazards.
Replace air filters. Air filters need to be replaced approximately every three months, though more frequently if you have particularly furry pets or live in a dry, dusty environment. This is a fairly easy process with little time consumption for the homeowner. First, turn off the power to the HVAC unit. It is important not to remove a filter while the HVAC is running. Next, unscrew the vent cover fixed over the filter. If this door is particularly dusty, vacuum or brush the dust off. Once the cover is removed, take out the filter within. If the filter is disposable, replace it with a new one of equal type and dimensions. If the air filter is reusable, brush the dust off carefully, then gently vacuum the remaining buildup. If the vacuum does not accomplish total dust removal, water may be used to fully clean the filter, though it should have gentle pressure, not a harsh spray. If water is used, allow the filter to fully air dry before replacing it. Be sure to fix the filter in the vent properly before reattaching the vent cover and returning power to the HVAC unit.
Wash windows. There are various methods for efficiently washing windows. The first and most popular approach is to spray the windows, both interior and exterior, with a glass-cleaning solution. Use a microfiber rag and circular motions to spread and remove the solution from the window pane. Multiple applications may be necessary. Alternatively, a bucket of hot water with a splash of liquid dishwashing detergent may suffice. Detergent should be used sparingly, as too much may cause streaks on your windows. Insects such as moths and mosquitos tend to get caught in window screens, so it is important to give these a quick cleaning as well. Sometimes, it may be possible to simply brush debris from the screen. However, this may not always be effective, and the screen may need to be removed and thoroughly cleaned. If this becomes the case, take the screen outside and hose it or rinse it with an outdoor faucet. If necessary, gently scrub the screen with a soft, soapy sponge, then rinse again. Allow the screen to air-dry completely before reattaching it in the window. Before replacing the screen, don’t forget to clean the window sill and track, which have the tendency to collect dust and grime. This can be accomplished through the use of a damp rag or soapy sponge.
Clean faucets and showerheads. With consistent use, hard water quickly builds up on the outside of your faucets and showerheads, forming an orangish or whitish deposit on the spout of the faucet. Though there may be no verifiable health concerns related to this buildup, it is in the best interest of water quality and sink preservation to clean the faucet regularly. One method is to fill a plastic sandwich bag with a solution of 50 percent vinegar and 50 percent water. Tie the bag over the faucet with a rubber band or ponytail, making sure the faucet’s head is submerged in the solution and the bag is secure. Allow this to soak for 10 to 15 minutes before removing the bag and wiping off the softened buildup. Alternatively, an all-purpose cleaner and toothbrush can be utilized to remove faucet buildup. Thoroughly spray the faucet or showerhead with the cleaner, then scrub the deposit with the toothbrush. Wipe the faucet with a paper towel or rag to complete the process. After removing the buildup, be sure to run water through the faucet to ensure there is no discoloration (if it was previously present) and no cleaner remaining in the spout.
Clean and organize the patio. If you have a patio, chances are it remained unused throughout the chilly winter months. Now is the perfect time to prepare it for increased use during the spring and summer. First, move all furniture outside. Remove all cushions and cushion covers and run them through the washer, if possible. Wicker, wooden or metal furniture can be dusted off or scrubbed with a damp rag. Sweep the entire patio with a broom, then mop with a soapy water solution. If your patio has screens, a hose may be used to remove debris from the mesh. Allow the entire patio to air-dry before replacing furniture. If you have a grill, bring it outside. Remove grates and racks and scrape burnt food and particles off. It may be useful to soak these in soapy water before scrubbing. Clean the inside and outside of the grill thoroughly. Soapy water can also be utilized for this step, though a hose may be more efficient for cleaning, depending on the safety of this method for your personal grill.
Clean and organize the interior of the house. Spring cleaning refers to more than just long-delayed household upkeep. It is also a perfect time for a total household reset. This includes sweeping, mopping and vacuuming all floors; cleaning out cupboards; donating unworn clothes or unused toys; scrubbing baseboards; cleaning dust from fans; reorganizing rooms; repainting; washing sheets, blankets and pillowcases; deep cleaning the oven and dishwasher; dusting and other important household chores.
Spring is the time of year when nature clears away the old and dead to make way for new life. This same practice can be applied to your home as spring approaches. Utilize these helpful tips and find other ways to get your home ready and clean for spring.