Mid-winter Home Maintenance

Change the furnace or air filter.

This should happen every three months, or more frequently, depending on the region. A clean air filter is critical to home air quality and to proper furnace or air handler operation.

Pay attention to changes in appliance and heating and cooling equipment performance.

Changes in appliance and equipment performance are often warning signs of larger problems. Troubleshoot and complete repairs as needed to improve energy efficiency and avoid costly repairs later.

Clean or replace the humidifier filter, if equipped.

Make sure registers are obstruction free.

Drapes and furniture should be positioned at a considerable distance from the registers to enable proper air flow. Rugs should not touch the registers. 

Seal the exterior.

Gaps and holes in a home’s exterior will cause drafts and increased heating costs. Use expanding foam to seal exterior holes. Seal gaps around window and door frames with weatherstripping and caulking.

Clean out dryer venting.

Use a long dryer vent cleaning brush to remove lint buildup from inside of the dryer through the outside venting. Lint buildup in dryer venting is an extreme fire risk. A thorough venting clean out should happen at least once annually.

Thoroughly clean the refrigerator’s condenser coils.

Use a bristle brush to clear dust and dirt from the condenser coils; dirty coils will cause the refrigerator to have to work longer and will lead to premature wear.

Replace the refrigerator water filter, if equipped.

Refrigerator water filters should be replaced every six months or more frequently.

Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

In the winter, our doors and windows stay closed tight to keep out the cold air, which means fresh air flow is at a minimum. This means your home is more susceptible to build up of dangerous gases like carbon monoxide. Ensure you’ll be alerted to any smoke or gas leaks by checking on your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.