By Stacey Gliniewicz

Owning a home can become overwhelming, especially when home repairs become costly.  We are nearly settled into spring, a time when we think about cleaning out our closets, completing the deep spring clean, and planting flowers.  What about those items that we don’t check often, but should?  It can be overwhelming remembering what to check and when.  Below is a list of twelve items to check to get you started, and to keep your home maintenance costs low:

1. Clean and adjust all ceiling fans (air goes down).
    
2. Start up sprinkler and check each zone. If you have kept your sprinkler running, check sprinkler heads and lines. Make sure the sprinkler heads are not damaged, leaking unnecessary amounts of water, and are watering the area you want them to.
    
3. Check and clean screens.  Make sure screens are in good condition, fit snugly, and there are no holes in the screens for bugs to enter.
    
4. Check paint and caulking around windows.
    
5. Trim and shape shrubbery and tree limbs.
    
6. General exterior clean up.  Check your window wells for garbage, and clean out. Prepare flower beds for planting.
    
7. Run and check garbage disposal.
    
8. Check floor vents and returns, set direction.  Time saver tip: at the same time you check your vents and returns, use a little bit of general purpose soap, warm water, and a rag to wipe off dust and dirt.
    
9. Repair minor drywall dings and touch up paint.
    
10. Clean out fridge condenser coils and drip pan.
     
11. Tighten door handles and hinge screws.
     
12. Test all toilets for leaks. (Tank to bowl, bowl to floor, & supply lines)

Not sure how to check an item on the list, or did you find a problem?  Call your local handyman or home maintenance service company. When you call, check for discounts as well.  Some service individuals or businesses will offer a discount on work that goes over a certain amount of time.

Be sure to check back for home maintenance check lists in the months to come!