We stay indoors a lot during the winter months, making it a great time to keep the inside of your home well maintained. At People’s Trust Insurance, we know a clean and cared-for home is also a safer home. You can get a jump on your spring cleaning by taking care of a few small items now.
These activities can even help you save money over time. Here’s a quick list of items you can take care of in a single weekend:
- Reverse ceiling fans. Many ceiling fans have a reverse switch so they can spin clockwise. Doing this when the heat is on will push down the warm air that rises to your ceiling. This may help lower your energy bill by allowing you to set the thermostat a little cooler but still get the same warming effect.
- A caulk inspection. Gaps in windows and door frames can let in a draft and cool down your home in the winter. If you have any gaps bigger than a penny, apply an exterior caulk to seal away the drafts – silicone caulk is great for outdoors because it withstands different weather. While you’re at it, check the caulk around your bathtub, sinks and showers. Remove and replace any caulk that’s discolored or mildewed.
- Get the musty smell out. Closets can start to smell musty when they get dirty. The winter is a great time to clean them by removing your clothes and giving the walls a good wash with your favorite cleaner. Also clean the floor and let the closet air out for a few hours. If the musty smell is related to moisture, check for any holes or gaps to seal.
- Warm up to fire safety. Some people light a fire to warm up in the Florida winter, so it’s a nice reminder to check your fire extinguisher. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher in at least one room and fill it, or replace it if it’s expired. Fire extinguishers with a triangle containing the letter “A” are great for the home since they are for clothing, paper, plastic, trash, and wooden-furniture fires.
- Make a list and check it. All home maintenance activities need to be done at least once a year, but it can be hard to remember what’s been done and when. The best way to remind yourself is to create a list of the major tasks you need to do to take care of your home. Create a spreadsheet with each chore and write out the number of times it needs to be done. Leave yourself enough space to make a note every time you do each activity throughout the year. The final step is to laminate your list and hang it somewhere you regularly check, such as the carport or laundry room.
General cleanup can also help keep your home and family safe. Getting rid of old newspapers and cleaning chemicals, or even old paint, can reduce your risks of a fire. Labeling and putting away cleaners and poisons can also keep your pets and children safe. It’s never too soon to start protecting your family.
This Blog is sponsored by:
People’s Trust Insurance Company