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MAINTAIN / REPAIR
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IMPROVE |
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Home SAFETY
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Inspect: Check dryer vents for lint buildup
Maintain: Clean vents & behind dryer frequently as lint build up causes fires per the CPSC |
Replace plastic or foil, accordion-type ducting material with rigid or corrugated, semi-rigid metal duct
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Inspect: Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors to insure they work
Maintain: Replace batteries once a year, and detectors every 7 to 10 years |
Upgrade to new building codes that require the fire warning system to run off house electricity and sound alarm when there is a problem anywhere in the house
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Inspect: Heating systems should be inspected annually
Maintain: Performance is improved when filters are changed every 3 months
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Periodically review the cost / benefit trade-offs of upgrading your heating system to one that is more efficient as it can reduce fuel costs significantly. |
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Inspect: Humidifiers/de-humidifier filters should be cleaned weekly
Maintain: Filters should be changed according to manufacturer recommendations.
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De-humidifiers can be placed on a wall shelf to allow gravity fed drainage into a utility sink or pipe to the outside.
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Inspect: Electrical outlets / fixtures to insure they are working properly; faulty wiring in the wall can pose a fire hazard
Maintain: Repair any electrical outlets / fixtures not working ; add electrical outlet covers where appropriate
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Upgrade old electrical service (still using fuses?) and/or add additional service as today's appliances use more energy. Add GFCI where there is water
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Energy Savings |
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Inspect: Have a home energy audit done
Maintain: Add insulation, ventilation and/or home sealing (recommend working with an experienced contractor)
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Replacing siding / windows are top home improvements made as they return good value on sale (2007 report; 2006 report)
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Inspect: Inspect windows and doors for drafts
Maintain: Replace/install weatherstripping and caulking
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Replacing windows is one of the top home improvements made (2007 report; 2006 report)
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Inspect: Check all light bulbs
Maintain: Replace burned out bulbs
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Install new "Compact Fluorescent" light bulbs that use 75% less energy & last up to 10 times longer
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Inspect: Have fireplace chimney professionally cleaned & make sure damper closes tightly
Maintain: Make repairs recommended by chimneyinspector |
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Kitchen & Bathrooms
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Inspect: Check for leaky faucets in the kitchen and bathroom(s) AND check for water damage where there are / have been leaks.
Maintain: Repair / replace washers or faucets and water damage found (damage will grow if not addressed when found).
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My Handyman recommends replacing leaky faucets as once the first gasket fails, the others are prone to fail soon.
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Inspect: Check caulk / grout to insure they remain water tight, and probe for water damage.
Maintain: Replace caulk, grout and/or underlying damage where there is any indication of water barrier no longer working.
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Inspect: Check water / waste hoses to dishwasher, disposal, washing machine
Maintain: Replace worn / brittle hoses before they fail |
Add shut-off valve at top of washing machine to easily stop / repair water leaks. |
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Inspect: Inspect refrigerator to make sure it is airtight
Maintain: Adjust latch as needed and vacuum coils twice a year |
Keep refrigerator stocked as a full refrigerator uses less energy
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Stairs / Hallways |
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Inspect: Check stair railings to make sure they're secure
Maintain: Add/secure railings & adjust height for children / seniors
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Inspect: Review lighting in high traffic areas
Maintain: Add/increase lighting to avoid accidents; seniors need more light and help with recognizing floor transitions
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Living Room / Dining Room / Family Room
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...see safety and energy savings
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Attic / Basement (see Energy Savings)
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Inspect: Check the temperature pressure relief valve
Maintain: Drain hot water heater and remove sediment from bottom
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Set hot water temperature to 150 F or lower if you have no dishwasher OR small children / elderly at home
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Inspect: Check basement walls and floors for dampness
Maintain: Repair leaks as needed
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Inspect: Clean out & check sump pump for proper functioning
Maintain: Clean out pump annually and on regular schedule when there is frequent use.
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Inspect:: Check attic & attic stairs for heat loss
Maintain: Insulate as needed, with proper ventilation
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Garage |
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Inspect: Check for poisonous / flamable products and other safety hazards
Maintain: Dispose of old newspapers, magazines, oily rags, etc. Move dangerous materials out of children's reach; organize sports, gardening & other items for easy / safe access (hang ladders horizontally so children do not climb on them)
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Upgrade storage capability to get everything off the floor and where appropriate, behind doors or in an outdoor shed that is locked.
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Inspect: Check access to garage, workshop & dangerous areas
Maintain: Install locks to prevent access by children
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Install an alarm on the door leading to the garage / workshop that sounds if left open for more than a few minutes. |
