Home Maintenance Tips

Air Conditioning

	To ensure efficient operation, check filters every month. Clean or replace as needed.
	Have annual system maintenance service performed one month before the cooling season begins.
	Keep the condensing unit free of debris.
	Trim shrubs and plants near condensing unit to ensure proper air flow/circulation.
	Bent condensing unit fins can be straightened with a fine comb.

Heating System

	Check filters every month.
	Smell around the appliance for gas orders.
	Visually inspect exhaust vent for rust, damage or deterioration
	Trim shrubs and plants near condensing unit to ensure proper air flow/circulation.
	Have annual system maintenance service performed one month before the heating season begins.

Electrical System

	To help prevent power outages, make sure there are not too many appliances plugged into one circuit.
	Regularly use self-test button on ground fault circuit interrupters/arc fault interrupters to ensure proper working order.
	Before working with wires or electrical connections, check them with a voltage tester to be sure they are dead.
	Use ground fault circuit interrupter outlets where damp conditions exist (basements, bathrooms, outdoors, etc.), as required by the National Electric Code.
	Leave a warning message that you are working on the circuit at the service panel, and tape the circuit breaker in the off position. With a fuse box, take the fuse out.
	Plumbing and gas pipes are often used to ground electrical systems. Never touch them while working with electricity.
	Don’t use metal ladders with overhead fans.

Plumbing System

	Toilet paper should be the only paper product flushed down a toilet.
	Maintain water softener according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
	Water filters and icemaker filters should be changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
	Avoid using your garbage disposal if you’re on a septic system.
	Drain sediment from water heater tank according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Washer

To adjust the level of your washing machine, turn the legs clockwise to lower them or counter-clockwise to raise them. Inspect cold and hot water supply hoses for cracks and deterioration

Dryer

Clean the lint screen after each load of clothes has been dried.

To adjust the level of your washing machine, turn the legs clockwise to lower them or counter-clockwise to raise them.

Water Heater

	Drain and flush sediment from tank twice a year.
	Check pressure-relief valve once a year to make sure this crucial safety device is not clogged.

Range/Oven

	To avoid damaging the burners/heating elements, do not use extra-large or heavy cooking pots or pans.
	If you have a self cleaning oven, do not use any other method to clean it.
	Mineral deposits on the electric heating element can be cleaned with vinegar.
	Clean or change range hood exhaust filters regularly.

Refrigerator

	Clean the interior shelves, shell and gaskets every three months.
	Once a year, clean the coils on the back or underneath with a vacuum cleaner.
	37°F is an ideal temperature for your refrigerator compartment and 0°F for the freezer.
	If the door gasket is sealing properly, it should hold a dollar bill in place when closed.

Garbage Disposal

	To clean the disposal, feed a full tray of ice cubes through it while running cold water.
	To prevent stoppages, remember to run water during use and for at least twenty seconds after you finish.
	Make sure rubber splashguard is not damaged or missing.
	Avoid using a garbage disposal if you are on a septic system.