Annual Check Up’s For Homeowners

Just about the time we set back the clocks, it’s also time to do some annual service and maintenance on your home. Whether you are buying a new home, keeping your current home or selling a piece of property, these tips can be very useful for all types of first time home buyer loans .

For starters, carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are a big plus in any home with gas. According to the CPSC, in 2002 there were 188 deaths from
CO. Make sure they have fresh batteries if you already have them or install them if you don’t. They are an inexpensive plug in that can save lives. CO is invisible and deadly. Buy the cheap, battery powered ones, as they are disposable and expire in 7 years. If they ever go off, believe them since you can smell or see CO. Get out and call the fire department.

Consider any backdrafting hazards in your home. Be sure all appliances have adequate air supply and cold air return on furnaces are not picking up combustion gasses.

Some other great items to check for annually are:

- Service your heating system (if applicable – oil, gas, propane etc)
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries
- Check/clean your fireplace/chimneys as they may be your back up source of heat
- Light pilots on fireplaces with millivolt ignition systems/change batteries if equipped
- Clean gutters, keep any drains clear of debris
- Weather-stripping and caulking windows, doors, trim, siding etc

With these simple tips, you can weather set your home and make sure your home is clean and stays safe no matter what time of year is it.