June brings on a whole new round of home maintenance tasks as the summer gets into full swing. Creating a to-do list can go on and on. But there's only so much you can do at a time. Check out our home maintenance checklist for June to help you prioritize your list so you can mark off tasks as you go along.
Install a New HVAC Filter
To keep your cooling unit working in top condition, install a new HVAC filter for your central and window units every month during the cooling season; or, clean them if they are washable.
Test Your Smoke Detector
Over 50% of deaths from accidental fires in the home are linked to smoke inhalation. It's recommended you change your smoke detector's batteries every six months. Lithium powered or long life smoke detectors batteries are designed to last up to 10 years, so this will be one less task you'll have to complete on your to-do list for next June if you decide to purchase long life smoke detectors.
Clean Out Your Dryer's Vents
One of the easiest ways to keep your dryer running efficiently is to clean out its lint trap, screen and vent. The build up of lint over time can prevent your dryer from circulating enough air, which can cause it to use more energy trying to dry your clothes. Another reason why it's important to keep your dryer lint free is because build up poses a fire hazard due to overheating. Clean out the lint from your dryer using a vacuum cleaner with an attachment. Also, use a dryer vent duct brush to clean hard-to-reach areas within this area.
Remove Old Paints and Flammables
As the temperatures rises, old paints and flammables can potentially cause a fire or an an explosion if they are stored improperly inside or outside the home. It's important never to store highly flammable liquids like kerosene or gasoline in the house or in an area of the basement where it's close to an ignition source, such as a water heater, dryer, washer or gas heater. These types of liquids are best stored in the garage or in an outside storage area. Further, store gasoline and kerosene in a heavy-duty approved container with a spring-loaded, self-closing handle equipped with a safety-relief plug. Avoid storing flammable liquids in glass jugs, cups, or old bleach bottles.
For health and safety reasons, paint should always be used in a ventilated area and stored with its original lid. Spray paint, lacquer thinner, and paint brush cleaner are all highly flammable liquids that shouldn't be stored in rooms exposed to high heat or heat producing units. Naphtha and toluene can be ignited by static electricity from your clothing. So store these products in secured containers away from the home in a detached storage area.
Sharpen Up Your Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal can easily break down and clog your drains so cleaning them is something that you should be doing monthly. Tossing a few ice cubes into the garbage disposal is a very easy, effective method for sharpening your garbage disposal blades and scouring any greasy film coating the nooks and crannies of the unit. If you haven't done this already, definitely make sharpening your garbage disposal blades a priority in June to keep it in working order.
Test the Tightness of Your Fridge's Door
Having a loose fridge door makes its compressor work harder during the summer months and causes food spoilage. Test your fridge's door tightness with a five dollar bill. Place the bill where the seal meets the fridge, close the door, and then pull the bill out to test the door's friction.
The days are getting longer, the temperature is rising, and your appliances and cooling units have to work harder to handle the challenges of a hot summer. Following the above maintenance tips in June can prevent costly repairs, energy and food loss as well as safety hazards if done promptly and correctly.
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