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HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
As the final snowflakes melt away, it’s time
to start thinking spring. Most of us start our
spring-cleaning checklist by sweeping out the
garage or uncovering stored patio furniture.
But the real cleaning should start from the
inside. It is critical to give attention to heating,
ventilation, and air conditioning, or HVAC, to
ensure comfort inside your home. Follow the
checklist below to give your home the boost it
needs before spring sets in.
• Check and replace filters – Changing the
filters in your furnace and air conditioner
about every three months (depending on
your filter type) keeps the air in your home
clean and allows for your system to continue
to run efficiently. Be sure to first turn off
equipment before replacing anything.
• Dust and wash bathroom fans – Clean
exhaust fans help with bathroom odor and
keep moisture out, preventing against mold
and mildew. To clean, remove the bathroom
fan cover from the ceiling and wash with
warm, soapy water and allow to dry
completely. Be sure the electricity to the fan is
off before you dust the fan blades.
• Drain and air out dehumidifier (if
applicable) – Dehumidifiers have several
health benefits for your family, including
reducing allergens such as dust mites, mold,
and mildew. Empty and clean the water
collection tank with warm, soapy water and
vacuum the intake and exhaust grills to keep
your dehumidifier running clean.
• Remove plants around the air conditioning
unit – Allow for maximum airflow around
your air conditioner unit by clearing any
encroaching weeds or plants, keeping a two-
foot radius around the system.
• Install a programmable thermostat – If
you’re in the market for a new thermostat,
consider a programmable one. These
thermostats increase your home’s efficiency,
offer cost savings through adjustable timing
and consistent temperatures throughout the
house, and optimize your HVAC system.
If all else fails, put your trust in the hands of a
professional who will ensure that your HVAC
system is ready for spring.
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way it makes you, your family and your friends feel when
you’re there.
ADDITION: 1 + 1 = FABULOUS!
Ever feel like your home would be perfect if only it had
that one room that’s missing? Perhaps it’s an extra bedroom
for when Mom comes to visit, or a bathroom downstairs
for guests when you’re entertaining. Maybe you already
have a family room, but it just needs to be a little larger
for your needs. If this sounds familiar, a home addition
may be the perfect solution for making life a little more
comfortable.
The great thing about a new room is that you can plan it
exactly the way you want it. If you’re adding a family room
or game room, why not build a fireplace as well? This will
quickly make it the most visited room in your house. If
you’re adding a bedroom either for visiting parents or a
returning college student, why not include an ensuite bath,
which will increase your home’s value as well as make for
more enjoyable visits for your guests.
As with any work done in your home, make sure that
you do your homework before contacting any contractors.
It’s a good idea to obtain estimates from three different
contractors before deciding which one to use. It helps to
be as specific as possible in your choices in order to get the
most accurate estimates. Use a spec sheet to ensure that you
are giving all three contractors the same exact information.
Using local contractors is another great way to ensure
that you’re getting someone with a good reputation in the
community. A good idea is to attend home shows where
you can actually meet the contractors face to face. It’s easier
working with someone when you have a good rapport.
The most important thing to remember in any home
design project is not to be too focused on the bottom line
only. Many times the lowest price does not result in the
best‑quality job. Do your research to find the best person
for your particular project. ■