Spring has sprung and your home is due for a thorough cleaning, but there are a few tasks you should add to your spring cleaning checklist to lower your risk of having an insurance claim while you’re at it! These 10 spring cleaning tips will improve your home and help prevent home insurance claims!
In the house:
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1. Change and Test Smoke Detectors
Spring is a good time to change the batteries in your home smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. It is also a good idea to test these units (once a month is recommended) while you are replacing the batteries to ensure they are still working correctly before it is too late.
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2. Clean the Dryer
It is good to clean the lint hose on your dryer once a year, as some lint may get past the trap. Clean the dryer exhaust duct and under the machine as well. This will help reduce the likelihood of a fire starting and it can even save you money, as you won’t need to run the dryer as long.
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3. HVAC Filters
This should be done several times a year, but while you are in the cleaning spirit, it is smart to clean filters in your furnace so it is still on your mind and doesn’t get overlooked come winter.
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4. Air Conditioning
Now that the furnace is cleaned for the season, it’s time for the air conditioner. Have a professional tune up your AC before you cool down this summer. This could help your AC run better and cooler, and will ensure there are no issues that will come up, leaving you in the heat.
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5. Water Heater
Since you are already checking appliances, give your water heater an exam to see if there are any leaks or corrosion that need repaired. Fixing these issues as they arise will keep repair costs low and help prevent any major damages.
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6. Windows and Doors
Before you head outside to start your yard work, check all the seals on your windows and doors to see if there are any cracks in the cauking, where leaks can form and cause damage. If you find any dried out seals, re-cauk them to keep out moisture.
Outside of the house:
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7. Trees
Trim any dead branches that may be on your property or near powerlines to prevent them from causing damage as the result of a storm. Trim any healthy trees to keep them under control and away from wires.
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8. Roof
Check for any damages that may have been caused during the winter from ice or snow and repair them to reduce the chance of leaks.
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9. Gutters
While you have the ladder out to check the roof, it is a good idea to clean out the gutters too. This will keep the water flowing away from your house and prevent the possibility of water damage and leaks.
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10. Shrubs
Trim any shrubs or bushes near or around your house to deter thieves. Home break-ins increase during the summer months and bushes that are untrimmed provide coverage for criminals.
While these tips will help to prevent any serious damage that could lead to a claim, the best way to guarantee you are protected in the event of an accident is to have the right coverage for your specific needs. The best way to get the best price for that coverage is to call and speak with our knowledgeable insurance experts at 724-929-2300 to review your current policy or get a free quote fast.