Home Maintenance
Your home is a complex machine constructed from more than 3,000 individual components. Just like your car, it needs to be maintained regularly to keep it operating at peak performance, and avoid preventable problems down the road.
Below is a list of important maintenance issues that should be addressed regularly. Some maintenance items may require hiring a professional service company.
- New homes in Minnesota re now required to have mechanical ventilation systems. Ask your builder what type of ventilation system you have and how to maintain the system.
- If your home is too humid in the summer and too dry in the winter, your ventilating system may be running excessively. However, the ventilation must not be reduced to the point of compromising indoor air quality. Check the owner’s manual and the Department of commerce website for more information.
- Clean filters in your furnace, air conditioner, kitchen exhaust fan, air cleaner and ventilation system to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers to ensure that they are operating properly.
- If there is more than a minor buildup of snow on your roof, the snow needs to be removed to prevent ice dams from forming, which can cause damage to your roof. Any ice buildup on your roof should be removed as soon as possible. If son is left to accumulate, the weight of the snow may damage your home. Certain roof designs require more maintenance than others.
- Keep gutters and downspouts free of leaves and debris. Make sure that your landscaping is sloped away from the foundation.
- Don’t dig until you call Gopher State One at 800.252.1166 or 651.454.0002 to locate underground utility lines.
- Check caulk around windows & doors, and re-caulk when necessary to prevent water damage.
- Vacuum the ducts behind warm air and return air grilles. Don’t obstruct grilles with furniture or other items.
- Shut off exterior faucets and drain pipes before temperatures drop to freezing.
- Know where your main water shut-off valve is located and how to use it. Never leave you home without heat during cold weather as water pipes may freeze and burst.
