07/09/2021
7 Maintenance Tasks to do in July
1- Seal up your home, using caulk to seal cracks is one of the most cost effective ways to improve air quality, prevent moisture problems, and help extend your HVAC lifetime. Pay close attention to doors, windows, attic panels, electrical outlets, ceiling fans, and switch plates.
2- Scrub the decks, patios, porches. A quick sweep with a broom, pressure wash, or leaf blower can shake off all that winter debris and dust and keep your outdoor areas looking great. A mild dish soap and water wash of patio furniture with some sun drying can refresh your patio furniture for a great summer. If you don’t have a pressure washer, you can rent one from Home Depot or Lowes for around $40 a day.
3- Refresh your pool. A quick pH test (strips available on amazon) will let you know how to treat your pool. pH level should remain between 7.2 and 7.8 for the cleanest and safest water. If you need to shock the pool, it’s best to do it at night when the sun won’t burn off the treatment. (Add the shock treatment to a bucket of water NOT your skimmer first) A good skim will remove any leaf debris, and should be done as needed. If pool maintenance isn’t your thing, you can definitely get a pool maintenance company for around $243 a month.
4- Inspect your windows. Check the screens for holes and frames for gaps. Those pesky bugs will get in otherwise.
5- Washer & Dryer Maintenance. Add ¼ cup bleach to an empty washing machine and run a hot cycle with an extra rinse cycle will clean out any mold, mildew, and gunk. If you have a front loading machine, make sure to clean the gasket, and then leave the door open to let it air dry. The dryer lint screen should be removed and washed, then allowed to air dry. Check the dryer vent tube for excess lint. If you have moisture sensors, clean them with soap and water to remove residue to help you not have damp clothes.
6- Drain your water heater. Flushing your water heater helps improve your unit’s efficiency & life span. Draining the water heater once a year helps clear pout build up of sediments and minerals. To drain your water heater, turn off the electricity or gas to the unit, close the cold water supply valve, and affix a hose to the drain valve. Snake the hose outside and open the drain valve first, followed by the pressure relief valve. This will allow water to drain from the tank. Once the tank is empty, open the cold water valve again and let the water run clear from the hose. Close the drain and pressure relief valves, allow the tank to refill, and detach the hose. You’re now ready to turn your clean water heater back on.
7- Plant your fall garden. Or have a professional gardener come get your fall harvest planted for you.