Inspection Services
MAINTENANCE TIPS
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- Remove all debris from gutters and detach elbows to make sure the downspout is
attached to the drainpipe. Over the years the drainpipe may settle and leave space
through which water can escape. Reattach gutters or downspouts that have become
loose. Inspect your gutter system for leaks during a moderate shower to determine
whether further repairs are necessary.
- Make sure there is no standing water around your home. If this problem is not
remedied your foundation will begin to leak and disintegrate. You may need to
contact a qualified inspection service to get more information on your options such
as installing new drainpipes, etc.
- Spring is also the time to check your household for insect infestation. You may need
to contact a qualified inspection service to get more information on extermination.
- Careful maintenance of your air conditioning unit can ensure that you remain cool
and comfortable. Check your furnace filter(s) at least once a month to keep small
dust particles out of the machine. Many air conditioning systems include an outside
air component called a compressor or heat exchanger, which encloses a large fan.
Some special precautions should be taken to ensure a long life for your
compressor. All shrubs or bushes should be kept a minimum of 30" away from this
fan in order to provide proper ventilation. Make sure that the dryer vent is not
blowing into the unit. Lint from this vent could clog the heat exchanger. In general,
it is a good idea to have all heating and cooling systems serviced annually. Regular
servicing can extend the life of the unit and lower your utility bill.
home.
- It is a good idea to arrange for a professional inspection of major systems of your
home in order to guard against discomfort and costly emergency repair fees. These
include your gutter, roof and chimney.
- Inspect your roof and replace any broken or curled shingles. Make sure the
shingles are secure enough to keep rain and snow out of your roof.
- Insulate pipes in your basement to prevent freezing and rupture. If you rely on a
sump pump to keep your basement clear of water be sure to test and lubricate it
according to your user's manual.
could lower your energy bill as much as 15%. Insulating windows with laminate kits
is another good way to cut down on energy use. The extra layer of protection over
the windowpane can also cut down on condensation that occurs when the war moist
air inside your home comes in contact with the cold glass. Elimination of excess
moisture will reduce mold growth and decomposition of your window frames.
- Change your furnace filter monthly to ensure that it remains in good working order
throughout the winter season.
- Make sure your attic is well insulated to prevent heat from escaping through your
roof.
- With the constant use of heat to warm your home, you should be especially aware
of the possibility of a fire. It is very important to test and replace the batteries in
your smoke detectors regularly.
- Heavy ice and snowstorms can clog sewer vents on your rooftop leading ot foul
odors, poor drainage of plumbing fixtures and possible explosion of the sewer gas.
To guard against this you may want to install vent covers that resist freezing.
Another possible precaution is to insulate the portion of the pipes that pass through
the attic with fiberglass insulation. To detect sewer gas entry into your home, check
your basement floor dains. If you notice a fecal odor you may need to refill them
with a few quarts of water each week. A few tablespoons of vegetable or mineral oil
on top of the water in the drain will slow the evaporation process.
2006 Copyright
Carters Home Inspection Services LLC