As Ferris Bueller once said, “Life moves pretty fast.” Our schedules seem to be packed with more activities, responsibilities, and chores. Homeowners face what may seem like a never-ending list of maintenance chores, many which arrive seasonally. Save yourself time, hassle, and headaches by turning to professionals for seven essential home maintenance chores.
HVAC Check-up
When cooler temperatures hit, you want your heat to turn on without any issues and continue working throughout the fall and winter months. You don’t want the heat to stop running when there’s a foot of snow outside and it’s so cold it feels like your eyelashes are frozen to your face. HVAC inspections can help prevent breakdowns. In general, the technician will inspect the overall condition of the equipment, electrical connections, venting, air filter, and test the thermostat.
Fireplace and Chimney Inspection and Cleaning
The Chimney Safety Institute of America reports that the National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 states, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.” Even if you don’t use the fireplace, it’s important to schedule an inspection and cleaning because birds and small animals can get in and build nests that need to be removed. You also want it inspected for structural issues.
Gutter Inspection and Cleaning
At least twice every year, gutters need to be inspected and cleaned to remove collected debris. Clogged gutters can lead to serious problems including pools of water at the home’s foundation causing moisture and seepage into a crawlspace or basement. Turn this chore over to professionals so you don’t have to climb a ladder or deal with anything that may be living in those dirty gutters.
Window Cleaning
The beginning of fall and spring are the two perfect times to get those house windows sparkling. Window cleaning, especially for a home with more than one level, can be dangerous as well as time-consuming. Hiring professional window cleaners means you don’t have to do the dirty work and that the job will be done correctly with the right equipment and products.
Septic Tank Inspection
If your home has a septic tank, the system needs an annual inspection by a professional to measure the accumulated layers of sludge and scum, reports How Stuff Works. This inspection, often done in the spring, also includes a check of the drain field, pipes, and other system parts. On average, the septic tank needs to be pumped out every one to three years.
Aerate the Lawn
Before the first leaves fall, aeration can help revitalize your lawn. Lawn aeration pokes small holes into the soil so there’s improved flow of water, nutrients, and air to the roots. This helps the roots gain strength and works to improve the overall lushness of the lawn. Because it’s a chore only done once or twice a year, hiring it out eliminates the need to store equipment.
Tree and Shrub Care and Trimming
Like lawn aeration, the equipment needed for tree and shrub trimming may not be something a homeowner wishes to invest in or store year-round. From loppers to pruning shears, not only do you need tools, but you need to know when and how to trim each tree and shrub. This can be confusing because it’s likely your property has multiple varieties and each may need a specific type of care.
Let United Window Cleaning check two items off your home maintenance chore list. Contact us to schedule both your gutter and window cleaning. Our trained professionals will get the job done right the first time, so you can get back to doing the things you enjoy.