Hello,
August has some beautiful sunny days and sunsets. The sunshine can actually improve our health, so be sure to spend some time outside this month.
Here are some great August homeowner tips.
A great time to prep your furnace for the winter
One good tip would be to get your furnace inspected, tuned and cleaned as needed during the summer by a reputable HVAC company (HVAC stands for “heating, ventilation and air conditioning.”)
That way, when you turn your heating on for the first time in the colder months, it will be working reliably and smoothly. Get it prepped and tuned now to ensure your coziness and safety when the cooler weather arrives.
Give the refrigerator door gasket a cleaning and check for leaks
The refrigerator door gasket is a flexible elastic strip attached to the outer edge of a refrigerator. The freezer compartment also has one. The gasket is designed to form an air-tight seal that serves as a barrier between the cooler air inside the frig and the warmer environment outside.
Cleaning the door gaskets enables you to check for cracks or tears that can let the cold air escape. If you see any, replace the gasket.
Check smoke detectors
To test your smoke detectors or carbon monoxide detectors, press and hold the test button on the detector. It can take a few seconds to begin, but a loud, ear-piercing siren should come from the smoke detector while the button is pressed.
If the sound is weak or absent, replace your batteries. If after changing the batteries it still doesn’t work, replace the detector. Batteries should also be regularly replaced once a year.
Block dirt from entering in the front door
Doormats are a lifesaver when it comes to blocking dirt from coming into your home. Keep the summer dirt or sand out by using two or more doormats. For outdoor mats, use weather-resistant, durable materials like woven seagrass or waterproof coconut fibers. An outdoor mat should have textured surfaces.
Indoor mats are best made from plants that create stiff fibers like cactus or cloth fabrics, since they stand up better inside than outside. These won’t scrape off all the dirt but will catch any uncaught debris. All mats should have non-slip backings.
Tips for your home exterior
⦁ Keep small animals out of the house by sealing your chimney when its not in use. Also take a look around the attic area and block any vents that are accessible to animals.
⦁ Inspect the siding of your house and take steps to clean any mold or mildew if its growing there.
⦁ Check your driveway, sidewalk and other concrete areas and repair any cracks.
⦁ Inspect your window locks, door locks and garage door locks to make sure all are working properly.
August is a great month for keeping your home safe and in good condition.
Happy Homeownering!
Roger Perron Design and Construction
www.RogerPerron.com
(323) 664-7001, Ext. 1 |
