Daylight savings has begun! Tackle these home improvement tasks.⠀ ⠀ Reverse ceiling fans: During warm months, ceiling fans should be facing forward & running in a counterclockwise motion, thus forcing cool air downward. To reverse your fan, locate the direction switch near the motor, switch it in the opposite direction, & then turn the fan on to check it.⠀ ⠀ Inspect your HVAC filter: Changing your HVAC filters before the spring months will help your unit run efficiently, lower your electric consumption, improve air quality indoors, & maximize your unit’s life span. To check your HVAC filter, remove it/hold it up to an overhead light. If light cannot be seen through, it’s time to get a new one.⠀ ⠀ Clean out gutters & downspouts: wear gloves, use a ladder, and clear out any blockages weighing down the gutters. Check downspouts for clogs to ensure that water flows freely from the gutters and into the ground.⠀ ⠀ Check smoke/carbon monoxide detectors: Some smoke alarms have a built-in 10-year battery, which eliminates the need for battery replacements for the life of the alarm. But if you do not have this type of alarm, you should replace the battery every six months and replace the smoke alarm itself every 10 years.⠀ ⠀ Clear garbage disposal: Clogged drains in your garbage disposal can cause hazardous material to seep into or under your home and cause problems like wood rotting, pests, and flooding in your home with wastewater. If it’s a clogged P-trap (U-shaped pipe), drain the water from the sink & get a large pan that fits under the P-trap. Unscrew the P-trap and dig out the debris. Grinding ice cubes and running cold water is also a good way to loosen debris and food particles trapped in the garbage disposal.⠀ ⠀ Drain your water heater: Experts says heating water is one of the largest contributors to household energy consumption and cost—up to 25% of your home’s energy bill. Consult your owners manual. The only tool you’ll usually need is a garden hose. Generally, you’ll need to shut off the water heater’s power and water supplies, and then attach a hose to the unit and let the water drain.⠀ ⠀ HAPPY SPRING, EVERYONE!⠀ Source: Realtor.com
