Now that the holidays are over, it’s time to focus on home maintenance once again. Your friends at Handyman Connection of Blue Ash have compiled a handy checklist of items that need to be taken care of during this time of the year. As always, if you can’t get to any of these tasks, call on us to handle them for you!
- Replace filters or wash permanent ones in your HVAC system and humidifier. Filters should be cleaned or changed monthly during peak season (based on filter type no longer than 3 months).
- Vacuum all heat vents.
- Inspect, clean and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. January is a good time to replace the batteries in all your detectors. Check with your local fire department on where to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
- Make sure you have properly charged and working fire extinguishers in your home. Consider placing within easy access to the kitchen, garage, furnace/boiler room, fireplaces and wood stoves.
- Have a plan of action in place for the whole family to exit safely during a fire. Set a place to meet outside so you can count heads. Have practice fire drills, especially if you have kids!
- Check for leaks in forced air heat duct joints and seal with duct tape.
- Look for indoor condensation on windows and take corrective action.
- Check electrical outlets for drafts and install foam gaskets to seal them.
- Check and test GFCI outlets to make sure they are working properly.
- Check snow removal equipment, shovels, ice melt etc. Make sure you have enough gas and or propane on hand to operate removal equipment or emergency generator if needed.
- Pick one room in your home and organize it…de-clutter and call us to install a shelving system.
- Review recommended maintenance for furnace, equipment, appliances, and tools. Mark your calendar to track scheduled upkeep and service.