Spring brings with it the joys associated with warmer weather: hiking, nature walks, lounging outside on the deck with a drink in hand. However, it is also the time when the dreaded C word comes out to play. Don’t let ‘cleaning’ get you down! Sometimes all you and your home need is a little TLC to raise your spirits. Here are 5 spring cleaning and housekeeping tips to get you back into the groove of things.
Dry Your Humidifiers & Dehumidifiers
Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are tremendously beneficial for adding and eliminating moisture into and from your home; however, they come with their own health hazards. The body of the units tend to store water residue within, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to collect and for mould to form. It is important to dry these cavities fully after use in order to prevent unhealthy particles from infiltrating the air you breathe.
Poke AC Drainage Holes
Every once in a while it is a good housekeeping idea to poke a paperclip into the drain hole located beneath your air conditioner’s evaporator fins. This hole’s purpose is to drain condensation from the interior of the unit outwards. If it is blocked by debris, your AC will not run at full capacity, causing you to spend more money over-time.
Caulk Window & Doors
As many homeowners will be able to tell you, even the best of caulkings do not last a lifetime. Weathering takes its toll. Therefore, it is important to give your windows and doors a bit of a refresher every couple of years. If you notice the sealant cracking or changing into that gross yellowish colour, you can bet moisture is making its way into your home. Seal that moisture out!
Change Toilet Flappers
Toilet flapper or flush valve malfunctions are the most common reason for toilet leaks. Over time, this flapper—whose job it is to periodically turn the fill valve on-and-off, draining water within its core—ages and stops sealing the toilet valve, causing leakage into the bowl. Stop wasting money on water! If you notice your toilet’s flapper not sealing properly, save yourself the hassle of cleaning up a big mess in the future and get yourself a new one!
Replace Furnace Filters
Furnace or AC filters keep the air blowing into your home nice and fresh! If these filters are clogged with dust and debris, they will not do their job properly, spreading allergens into the air. If you don’t want to change your filters every month, invest in a HEPA filter which only has to be changed every 6 months and can be cleaned with a vacuum in between replacements!
The C word does not have to be overwhelming. The tips above are simple enough to get your home spring ready in no time! In need of more helpful HVAC tips? Contact us for answers to your questions! One of our knowledgeable and reliable HVAC specialists would be happy to assist you!