Refreshing your home in the spring is about more than organizing closets and cleaning floors . As winter melts away and warmer weather returns , proactively checking your home ’ s systems will help keep it running efficiently while remaining a comfortable and safe space for you and your loved ones .
UPGRADE FIRE AND CO SAFETY SOLUTIONS While you ’ re ticking through your list of spring maintenance to-do ’ s , don ’ t forget about the smoke and carbon monoxide ( CO ) alarms . Proper smoke and CO alarm placement , regular maintenance and alarm replacement are essential to keeping your family safe . The National Fire Protection Association ( NFPA ) recommends that alarms be installed on every level of the home , including the basement , as well as in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area . Alarms should be tested regularly , and if the device is batterypowered , batteries should be changed at least every six months .
To make maintaining your smoke and CO alarms easier , upgrade to a 2-in-1 smoke and carbon monoxide alarm , such as the al 10-Year Battery Combination Alarm . This 10-year sealed battery alarm eliminates battery replacement and late-night battery chirps for a decade . Easy to install , 10-year alarms come equipped with a mounting bracket and installation kit – making safety simple for you and your family .
CHECK FOR WINTER WEAR AND TEAR Winter ’ s extreme temperatures can take a toll on the outside of your home and its appliances . Examine the outside of your house and roof to check for fallen branches or debris that could block gutters or downspouts and cause a drainage problem . Inspect the driveway and sidewalks for new potholes or cracks that may have developed in the cold , and ensure all exterior lights are working properly .
TUNE UP YOUR COOLING SYSTEM When the weather gets milder , schedule a professional maintenance service to ensure that your heating , ventilation , and air conditioning ( HVAC ) systems are operating optimally and won ’ t quit after the first warm spell . If you don ’ t already have one , upgrade to a smart thermostat , like a Honeywell Home Smart Thermostat , which allows you to adjust your temperature from anywhere and set different temperature schedules for various times of the day . ENERGY STAR certified thermostats can provide comfort when you ’ re home , and energy savings when away .
CHANGE YOUR AIR FILTERS Over a long winter , your heating system ’ s air filters naturally accumulate dust and other airborne particles , which can clog your air filter , impact indoor air quality and affect system performance . Regularly replacing your air filters is a great way to help maintain indoor air quality and support a comfortable environment for your family . Clean air filters also allow for better air flow , reducing the stress on your home ’ s HVAC system and promoting energy efficiency .
SECURE WINDOWS AND DOORS Warmer weather often breeds more home break-ins as burglars like when windows are open at night or garage doors are open during yard work . But you can help lower the threat by hardening the target . Walk around outside of your home to inspect doors and windows for working locks and be mindful not to leave valuables in sight . If you have cars parked in your driveway , keep them locked and garage door openers should be tucked away .
To help protect what matters most and learn more fire safety tips , visit firstalert . ca . For assistance with HVAC or home security assessments , contact your local professional service . - First Alert , www . firstalert . com
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