Spring Cleaning Checklist
Spring has officially arrived! That means it’s time to start thinking about your spring cleaning. Whether you look forward to the task of deep cleaning your home or completely dread the thought of it, we’ve got you covered. Our checklist focuses mainly on appliances and items often overlooked.
1. Dryer Vent
You regularly clean your lint screen after doing a load of laundry, but how often do you check the dryer vent? Located behind the machine is a tube that connects the dryer to the outside vent. Remove the tube and vacuum any lint in the tube as well as the vent in the wall. Not only does this reduce the risk of fire, but it improves your dryer’s efficiency. Be sure to unplug your dryer before cleaning the vent. This advice applies to electric dryers. If you have a propane dryer, it’s best to call a professional experienced in handling propane appliances.
2. Baseboard Heaters
If you have baseboard heaters throughout your home, cleaning them at least once a year keeps them working safely and efficiently. Before starting, shut off the power to the heater and allow them to cool completely. Remove the cover and carefully vacuum inside the heater with the hose attachment. Wipe down the cover and replace it.
3. Furnace Filter
Every furnace has a filter that removes unwanted elements such as dirt, dust, or allergens from the air that circulates through your home. If you have an annual tune-up performed by Dead River Company, you don’t need to worry about replacing your furnace filter. If you don’t have yearly maintenance performed, you’ll want to be sure to change your filter after every heating season.
4. Water Filtration System Filters
Sediment filters found in whole house water filtration systems should be changed every 6 months. Similar to a tune-up for your heating system, if you have a water filtration system, it should receive annual maintenance. During this service appointment, the filter will be changed and many companies will leave you with an additional filter to change at the 6 month mark. Water treatment equipment for health concerns such arsenic, lead, radon, or uranium typically requires a professional to change these filters.
5. CO2 & Smoke Detectors
Check the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. If it’s been a while since you’ve changed them, now would be a good time for new batteries. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors should be replaced at least once a year.
These aren’t your typical “spring cleaning” items, but they are important in order to maintain the quality and performance of your systems and to keep you, your family, and your home safe and healthy! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us or our water treatment division, Dunbar Water.
