A spring to-do list

Garbage Disposal

Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the disposal followed by a cup of white vinegar. Once the bubbles subside, pour in a pot of boiling water, and allow it sit for five minutes. Finally, run cold water through the disposal, and turn it on to flush out any remaining debris. To keep funky smells at bay, turn the disposal on and run a lemon peel or juice and crushed ice through it.

Change Air Filter

Obviously we would suggest this, but really it is a must-do. We have plenty of articles that will discuss the benefits of keeping your HVAC unit serviced; a happy unit makes for a happy electric bill. Airtech, being a licensed heating and cooling technician, can inspect and clean the blower and motor, check the coolant, and test the switches. It’s also a good idea to inspect your ductwork and seal any leaks with special metallic tape and duct mastic.

Ceiling Fans

Did you know that during spring and summer, ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise when looking up at the fan. This creates a downdraft that makes you feel cooler.

Fireplace Flute- close it

Don’t forget to close your fireplace damper to keep drafts, rain, animals, and insects out of your home.

Plumbing

After the last winter freeze, it’s a good idea to check your water meter for plumbing leaks. If the triangular shaped flow indicator on the water meter is turning when water isn’t running in the house, you’ve got a leak.

Gutters

Clean them out to avoid problems and let spring rainfall go where it needs.

Attic Vents

Poorly vented attics trap summer heat that can cause your air conditioner to work harder and shorten the life of roof shingles. Inspect attic vents to make sure they’re clear, and check power vents to see if they’re working properly. Replace any damaged or missing screens on vents to keep squirrels out. If your attic isn’t vented, consider adding vents or power vent fans.

Lawn Mower Tune-Up

Get your lawn mower ready for mowing season by changing the oil, cleaning or replacing the air filter, and cleaning or replacing the spark plug. Next, disconnect the spark plug wire, remove the bolts holding the blade, and sharpen the blade using a file, grinder, sharpening stone, or belt sander. Put the blade back on the mower, making sure the beveled side of the blade is facing up, and tighten up the bolts.