Seasonal Maintenance
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      1. Homeowner Care
      2. Seasonal Maintenance

      Seasonal Home Care Tips

      Everything you need to know about maintaining your home as the seasons change.

      Note: You may find a situation where this document suggests one thing and a manufacturer document suggests another. In these circumstances, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

      It is a good idea to set yourself up with a few basic tools and supplies for your home. Having them on hand saves a lot of time. Here are a few suggestions:

      • A medium-sized tool box 
      • Adjustable wrench
      • Pair of pliers
      • Full set of screwdrivers
      • Hammer
      • Assorted nails and screws
      • Flashlight
      • Caulk gun
      • Interior and exterior caulk
      • 1”, 2” and 3” paint brushes
      • Assorted sandpaper
      • 6-foot stepladder 

      WINTER: 

      1. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses – a hard freeze could burst faucet or pipes  Winterization of irrigation system
      2. Check gutters for ice build up
      3. Remove leaves/snow from around HVAC unit 
      4. Warning: Salt and de-icing chemicals used to thaw ice and snow can damage driveway/lead walks/stoops 

      SPRING: 

      1. Clean gutters – this will prevent unnecessary roof leaks when spring rains hit
      2. Check roof for loose, damaged or missing pieces (shingles, flashing, etc.)
        1. Tip: use binoculars – it’s easier and safer than a ladder
      3. Caulk around exterior openings
      4. Re-mulch shrub beds
      5. Check foundation for proper drainage
        1. Add fill dirt if needed, to keep water draining away from the foundation
      6. Oil moving parts of garage door 
      7. Spring start-up of irrigation system
      8. Start & test Air Conditioning (if applicable) on the first warm day
        1. Clean condensation drain lines prior to starting up air conditioner
      9. Re-caulk and re-grout ceramic (if applicable)
      10. Inspect exterior railings for rust 
      11. Open crawl space vents (if applicable) – good ventilation under the crawl space will minimize dampness

      SUMMER: 

      1. Re-paint and re-caulk exterior wood surfaces every 2-3 years o This helps wood products last their longest and beautify your investment
      2. Treat pressure-treated decks, steps, etc. every 2 years
      3. Clean and lubricate windows, sliding doors, and interior bi-fold doors for smoother sliding
      4. Check exterior drain holes on windows for clogging or debris
      5. Locate outside gravity drains (Downspouts, sump pump, etc.) and clear of any obstructions
      6. Check and replace exterior door weather stripping as required
      7. Pour 1 capful of bleach into condensate line. Check outside for any obstructions

      FALL: 

      1. Clean gutters – this will prevent unnecessary roof leaks from winter ice build-up 
      2. Re-caulk and re-grout ceramic (if applicable) 
      3. Caulk around exterior openings 
      4. Remove leaves/snow from around HVAC outdoor units 
      5. Oil moving parts of garage door 
      6. Check roof for loose, damaged or missing pieces (shingles, flashing, etc.)
        1. Tip: use binoculars to check from a distance – it’s easier and safer than a ladder 
      7. Close crawl space vents (if applicable) – extreme cold weather could freeze pipes under the crawl space 
      8. Start and test your heat on the first day exterior temperatures reach 60°F

      VACATIONS 

      1. Locate/Turn off master water shut-off valve – should a leak occur, you will be protected (while on vacation) or if a pipe should burst, master shut-off valve will stop water
      2. Set thermostat to 60°F - keeping the setting at a mild temperature can help to prevent damages due to extreme temperatures in your absence 

      OTHER MAINTENANCE: 

      1. Smoke detectors:
        1. Replace batteries twice per year (when you change your clocks)
        2. Clean annually with a vacuum
        3. Check for replacement every 5 years 
      2. Vacuum return and/or supply air vents if they are dirty
      3. Replace thermostat batteries (if applicable) as needed
      4. Install a “ceramic seal and finish” to grout after you move in and every two years
      5. Sprinkler System: visually inspect all sprinklers
      6. Inspect furnace filters once per month and replace as necessary 
      7. Carpet: Vacuum twice each week lightly and once per week thoroughly 
      8. Carpet: Have your carpet professionally cleaned once per year 
      9. Tub: Clean every 3-4 months. Read your manufacturer instructions on the way to properly clean, maintain and operate your tub.

      Spring and Summer Season Helpful Hints

      • Test the A/C BEFORE the real hot weather sets in. As soon as the outside temperatures reach 65°F, try your system. Immediately call your HVAC company with any warranty Issues.
      • Filters in the HVAC systems should be changed every 30 days.
      • When turning off the heat in the spring, remember to also turn off the humidifier (if applicable), it is OK to leave the water on to prevent sediment build up.
      • Check the outside hose bibs and irrigations systems for winter damage. 

      Fall and Winter Season Helpful Hints 

      • Test the HEAT BEFORE the real cold weather sets in. Immediately call your HVAC company with any warranty issues. 
      • Filters in the HVAC systems should be changed every 30 days. 
      • When turning on the heat in the fall be sure to turn the humidifier ON as well as the water supply to the humidifier, if equipped with one.
      • Winterize your outside hose bibs and irrigation systems to prevent freeze damage.