Encor spring energy checklist
The snow is beginning to melt, leaves are coming back, and you start to feel a little more warmth in every breeze. These are all signs that spring is here and that means making sure your home is ready for the season. With every seasonal change comes seasonal cleaning so here is the Encor Spring Energy Checklist: A step-by-step guide to prepare your home for the season and everything that comes after it.
General spring cleaning
Some people look forward to it and others can't wait for it to be over but spring is the best time to take a look around your home and get rid of any clutter that might have accumulated over the winter. Dusting, wiping cabinets down, or even just being able to open windows again can give your home a breath of fresh air. You can even consider renting a carpet cleaner to remove settled dust, mites, and other allergens for a happier and healthier home. To help with this, take a look at our 6 Important Places You're Forgetting to Clean blog.
Check the AC and furnace
The worst time to find out your air conditioning doesn't work is when you need it in the summer. Prepare yourself by taking a look at it early and making sure it's ready to go next season. Regularly checking on your furnace to make sure it's still functioning properly after the winter and replacing its filter are also a good thing to make a habit of. Check all the connections, change the filters, and if necessary, have them serviced if you notice there is something wrong. As mentioned in our Encor Fall Energy Checklist, a good rule of thumb is to change 1-2 inch filters every three months and 4 inch filters every six months and 5 inch filters every 12 months.
Examine roof shingles
Now that there is no snow on the roof, it's a good time to go up and check on it. Make sure no loose shingles were lost or damaged during the winter. The hot summer sun can do a lot more damage to them so it's always best to keep your roof up-to-date and secure. While you're up there, you can take a look at the chimney and check for any signs of damage as well as having the flue cleaned or inspected by a certified chimney sweep.
Check the attic and basement
You'll want to make sure that your attics ventilation is still working properly and that no critters or birds have set up any nests in there during the winter months. Take a look for any obstructions in the vents, signs of leaking through roof, and that the insulation has remained in place. Keeping a good airflow will help out when the temperature increases.
Just like with the attic, the basement can be prone to issues. Check for cracks in the cement and look for any signs of leaks. While you are down there, it's also a good idea to check your sump pump and make sure it is working properly and prepared for all the melting snow.
Inspect the concrete, brickwork and stucco
Winter can cause a lot of damage to the foundation and other stonework. Inspect all concrete for signs of cracks or sinking. Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulking and when weather permits, power-wash and seal the concrete. If you discover water penetration in brick or cracks in the stucco, consider sealing them with an appropriate sealant.
Check outside faucets
Check all outside hose faucets for freeze damage that may have occurred over winter. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you are able to stop the flow of water, it is likely the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be replaced.
Check screen doors and windows
Even though spring brings fresh air, it also brings bugs. Screens are designed to let the breeze flow in and keep the bugs out, but they can only do that if they're free from tears and holes. Check every screen in the spring so you can enjoy the approaching warm summer air. Repair kits can be found at most hardware and home-improvement stores.
While your checking, take a look at and, if necessary, caulk around your home's windows and doors. This will help keep out heat and humidity in the summer.
Clean up the lawn and check for mold
Rake the lawn to remove any debris, branches or leaves that might have been missed in the fall. Too much buildup of these things can suffocate the grass beneath. Raking will also help remove any of the dead blades of grass and preventing snow mold from occurring. In fact, it's a good reminder to check everywhere in your home for any spaces where water damage may have occurred during the winter to help prevent mold from occurring.
Keep this list handy and check back next year when you need to do it all over again. A safe and efficient spring can make for an even safer and more efficient summer. For more helpful tips visit our blog.
