An Ounce of Prevention

Have you had your heating and air system inspected?

Simple Sacramento Maintenance Tips

Now that we are well into the spring season, many Sacramento  homeowners may have begun spring cleaning efforts and preparations for summer renovations.  And it’s also a good time to do a little preventative care around the house to make sure that things are working as they should be.  A yearly Sacramento home inspection and simple, routine maintenance can minimize the need for costly, disruptive, and time-consuming repairs in the future. Here are some quick tips for a few household items that can help you keep Sacramento households running smoothly.

Air Conditioner

Before the heat of summer kicks in, make sure that the air conditioning unit is ready to work.  Change and clean the filter.  Remove any obstructions or debris from around the condensing unit – it needs to draw on outdoor air to cool for the inside.  Check for Freon leaks and make sure levels are adequate for maximum efficiency.

Refrigerator

One of the biggest priorities with a refrigerator is ensuring that cold air stays in, keeping your food fresh and your energy bills in line.  Make sure that the unit is level so that doors are sealing tightly.  Clean the gaskets on the doors every few months and replace cracked or damaged ones so that the doors shut properly.  Check that the small tube running refrigerant from the condenser to the evaporator isn’t kinked or leaking.  Remove dust build-up from the coils to help the refrigerator work efficiently.

Washing Machine

It may seem odd that you should wash your washing machine, but you can increase the life of the machine by keeping it clean and in good repair. Clean the tub according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and wipe drippings off of the exterior (some stain removers or other chemicals might corrode the exterior). Check for dripping water coming from cracked hoses or loose fittings, and replace parts as necessary.  If your machine bangs around during a cycle, adjust the feet to level it and prevent damage. Ensure that the drain hose is secured properly so that pressure does not cause it to loosen and spill water onto your floor.

Toilets

A disabled toilet is one of the biggest inconveniences a family can encounter.  Some easy investigation can identify leaks early and keep the fix simple.  Add a small amount of red food coloring to the tank, and then check the toilet bowl later. If the water has turned red, water is seeping through from the tank, and you may need to replace some parts.

Pipes

A plumbing backup generally brings a halt to everything else until the issue is fixed.  Take basic measures to keep pipes clear and prevent clogs.  Fit all tub, shower, and sink drains with strainers to catch hair and other debris.  Clean old strainers and replace loose or broken ones.  It’s also wise to have the entire family review the location of the inside and outside water shut-off valves in case of emergency.

If you would like to schedule your Sacramento home inspection call our office at 1-877-424-8289