As a heating, plumbing, and cooling company in here in Northern Virginia, we know firsthand how important it is to maintain your systems. A little knowledgeable TLC can go a long way, helping you prevent an avoidable problem or unnecessary expense. And, the right care can drastically improve your overall efficiency as well (that’s a win from every angle!).
With spring officially here, let’s take a closer look at a few of those key maintenance items, both inside and out.
7 Springtime Home Maintenance Tips for Your Virginia Home
Ready? Let's go!
#1 Change the Filter in Your Air Conditioner
This is one of the most common issues we see every spring! It’s easy to overlook this relatively small task, but it’s the cause of most of our emergency calls after air conditioners have been running for a month. We recommend changing yours every month, May through September.
#2 Check Your Outdoor AC Unit
Make sure the surface is clean and free of lint or pet hair. And, be sure to ask your landscapers to be careful while trimming grass around your unit! Every season we replace cut wires due to weed whackers that carelessly get a little too close...
#3 Check Your Sump Pump
A routine check to make sure your sump pump is in good, operational condition is valuable, and be sure to double-check that it’s clear where it discharges outside as well. To take your peace of a mind a step further, you may also want to consider a backup power system for when spring and summer storms create power outages - the last thing you want is a soggy basement if your sump pump can’t run!
#4 Take a Peek Under Your Sink
It’s easy to take the space under your sink for granted, but it’s important to periodically check for leaks. Catching even small leaks that sometimes go undetected helps to avoid a major, ultimately avoidable, problem. Your cabinets and flooring will thank you! And, your budget will too.
#5 Inspect Your Downspout Drains
While you’re doing your springtime landscaping or gardening, take a look at your downspouts and gutters. Ensuring that they’re totally clear, unobstructed, and are directed away from your foundation is key. And, while you’re in inspection mode, check for any signs of rotting wood around your windows, and look at your siding as well. Catching these problems early will save you a huge amount in the long run!
#6 Does Your Toilet Pass the Dye Test?
A hissing or constantly-running toilet is pretty obvious, but did you know that you may be leaking water and not even know it? The best way to tell is by putting a few drops of food-grade dye in your toilet tank and letting it sit. Don’t flush for 10-15 minutes, and then take a look inside the toilet bowl. If the dye found its way in, you know your toilet needs to be looked at. Water is expensive - don’t let your money and resources literally trickle away!
#7 Invest In a High-Tech Thermostat
Smart thermostats that connect right to your smartphone are an awesome idea. You can check in at any time to adjust your home’s temperature from any location, helping to optimize your heating/cooling efficiency. Many models can also be programmed to run at specific temperatures during certain times of the day, avoiding waste and keeping your home comfortable at the same time. Or, if there’s a problem, you’ll receive an alert.
Heating and Cooling Services in Northern Virginia
Do you have a question about your home’s systems? We can help! Here at L.R. Bennett, Inc., we’re committed to keeping your home efficient, comfortable, and on the cutting-edge. From plumbing to remodeling, we have the services you need - contact us today!
