Florida Homebuilder Centerline Homes | Real Estate Blog

Winter Maintenance Tips For Your Home

• Clean out your homes gutters and downspouts
• Familiarize family members with the main gas valve, electric, and water shutoffs
• Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer
• Make sure all electrical holiday decorations have tight connections
• Check the attic for adequate ventilation
• Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter
• Check the water hoses on the clothes washer, icemaker and dishwasher for cracks, rot or bubbles
• Test all ground-fault-circuit-interrupter (GFI) outlets

Clean out gutters and downspouts
One good method is to spray water down the downspouts to wash away leaves and other debris.

Extreme caution should be exercised when working on or around the roof. Consider hiring a professional.

Familiarize family members with the main gas valve, electric, and water shutoffs
Responsible family members should be familiar with the location and operation of valves. If you are unsure of the location and operation of these valves, contact a professional.

Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer
Poor maintenance allows lint to build up in the exhaust duct reducing efficiency and could lead to a fire.

Make sure all electrical holiday decorations have tight connections
If possible, use 3-prong plugs and cords.  Unplug decorations and electronics when not in use.

Use of extension cords should be temporary.
To reduce the chances of overheating, electric cords, including extension cords, should never be bundled together or run under rugs and carpet.

Check the attic for adequate ventilation
Check the exterior wall to make sure the ceiling insulation is not blocking the outside air from the soffit vents from getting into the attic. Make sure the attic has plenty of vents. Caution should be taken in all attic spaces that are unfinished.

Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter
Keeping this clean of cooking grease will help keep a stovetop fire from spreading.

Check water hoses on the clothes washer, refrigerator icemaker and dishwasher for cracks and bubbles
Replace hoses that show signs of leaking or dry rot.

Test all ground-fault-circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlets
These should be tripped and reset once a month. If they do not trip or reset, have the outlet changed by a qualified electrician. These types of outlets are required around wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens to offer protection against shock. Only a qualified electrician should make changes in your home's electrical system.

Proper home maintenance is important to protect your biggest investment. Whenever in doubt of a task consult a professional for assistance.

See our other home maintenance tips for additional ideas around the home.