Spring is a season of renewal, but it also brings its fair share of weather challenges, from heavy rains to fluctuating temperatures. To ensure your home is ready to handle the season’s unpredictability, follow this checklist of essential spring maintenance tasks.
Outside the Home:
- Clean Your AC Unit - Your air conditioning unit has likely collected leaves, sticks, and dirt over the winter, which can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Before warmer temperatures set in, turn off the power to the unit, gently vacuum and clear any surrounding debris.
- Check Gutters And Downspouts - The freeze-thaw cycle of winter can cause cracks and holes in your gutters. Inspect them closely and repair any damage. Furthermore, spring rains can quickly overwhelm gutters that are clogged, so check for and remove any potential blockages.
- Inspect Your Sump Pump - As winter’s snow melts and April’s rain showers arrive, many homes face the risk of basement flooding. Ensure your sump pump is in working order and clear any debris away.
- Repair Your Roof - Winter storms may have damaged your roof, leading to potential leaks during spring rains. Look for missing, curling, or cracked shingles, and check your attic for signs of moisture.
- Prepare Outdoor Furniture - Spring means more time outdoors. Clean and inspect your patio furniture for damage and replace any worn-out cushions.
- Lawn And Garden Maintenance - Remove winter plant covers, fertilize the soil, and trim back dead foliage to encourage new growth. A well-prepped garden will thrive as temperatures rise.
(MORE: Why You Should Try ‘No Mow March’)
Inside the Home:
- Pollen-Proof Your House - Unfortunately, spring often brings an increase in allergens. Dust your fans, window sills, and blinds, and change your air purifier filters to prep for the influx.
- Adjust Humidity Levels - With warmer weather, indoor humidity levels can be lowered to keep the air comfortable and reduce energy costs.
- Replace HVAC Filters - If you’ve been running your heating system all winter, your HVAC filter is likely full of dust. Swap it out to keep your indoor air healthy and your system running efficiently.
- Check Windows And Doors - Replacing damaged screens and installing proper weatherstripping helps keep cool air inside - and spring pests outside - during warmer months.
- Let In The Fresh Air - After months of being closed up, let the fresh spring air circulate through your home to improve air quality (and your mood).
By tackling these maintenance tasks, you’ll ensure your home is ready for everything spring has in store. From heavy rains to rising pollen levels, a little preparation now can save you from bigger headaches later.
MORE ON WEATHER.COM
|Weather in your inbox
By signing up you agree to the Terms & Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe at any time.
