Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Air Conditioner

Air Conditioner - Clean the condenser (outside part of system) coils with a cleaner specially designed to for AC fins. Be careful not to bend or damage the delicate fins in the process. It will help improve the efficiency of the unit. Inspect the insulation for damage and the refrigerant lines for any leaks (look for any oily drips). Clean the condensation drip pan and drain pipe on the evaporator (inside part of the system). Pour a cup of bleach down the drain pipe to clear any build up. Pour a gallon of water down after to push it through the piping. This step is particularly important in warm humid areas where mold grows.

Gutter

A lot of debris gets caught in the gutters over the course of the winter (usually from trees). Use a ladder to reach the gutters. Make sure it is secure. Use gloves or a towel to remove debris from the gutter and place it into a bucket or drop it to the ground. Remove downspout strainers, clean, and put back in place. Flush remaining debris with a hose. If the water pools, check the downspouts for obstructions.

Sump Pump

Another item to add to the home maintenance calendar that is often overlooked is the sump pump. The sump pump needs to be ready for melting snow in northern homes and rainy season in southern homes. Either can cause leaking into the basement and the sump pump will help battle this problem.

Remove cover from sump pump. Clean any debris from the sump. Run garden hose into the sump and turn the water on to verify that the pump runs when the float rises. If you cannot use a hose several buckets of water will suffice. Make sure the pump shuts off after the water has been pumped out.

Sprinkler System Prep

The sprinkler system needs to be ready to go once the grass starts coming out of hibernation.

Prep the pump if it pulls from a natural water source. Open the main valve up if your system is dependent on city water. Turn the system on to see that it rotates through the stations properly. Clean and attend to any problematic sprinkler heads. Test your rain sensor, if applicable, by dumping water through the sensor and seeing if the system does not turn the following day.

Filter Replacement

Turn off HVAC system. Remove access panel filter. With central air there may be several filters with each one being at the air intakes. Other systems have only one filter placed in the furnace unit. Replace each filter. Be sure it is inserted the correct direction (indicated on the side of the filter). Replace the access panel.

Home Maintenance Tracker provides checklists, tips and videos for keeping on top of your house maintenance. Visit at http://www.homemaintenancetracker.com

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