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    Top Home Maintenance Tips

    HVAC Tips

    Change your HVAC Filter Regularly

    Consult your manufacturer’s manual for filter sizes and how frequently they recommend changing filters.

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    Have Your HVAC System Inspected Annually

    We recommend inspections in the spring or fall to prepare for higher use in the summer and winter.

    Keep Outdoor Units Free of Debris

    We recommend inspections in the spring or fall to prepare for higher use in the summer and winter.

    Indoor Tips

    Prevent Water Pipes From Freezing

    Insulate pipes in unheated parts of your home. In extremely cold temperatures, allow faucets to drip.

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    Check for Cracks & Gaps

    Inspect your windows and doors for cracks and gaps regularly. Repair or replace as needed.

    Check for Leaks

    Check for leaks in toilets, tubs, sinks, and dishwashers regularly. When necessary, re-caulk and regrout.

    Clean and Refinish Wood Floors and Walls

    Wood requires cleaning and occasional refinishing.

    Outdoor Tips

    Maintain Grading

    For new homes, maintain the grading your builder/seller established to ensure water drains away from the foundation of the home.

    For older homes, make sure changes to landscaping allow water to drain away from your home.

    Adhere to Proper Landscaping

    Plant trees and shrubs at the proper distance from your home, and conform to generally accepted landscaping practices for your area.

    Drain & Blow Out Irrigation Systems

    Drain, blow out, and disconnect all hoses before the first freeze.

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    Check & Clean Gutters Regularly

    Leaves, nests, and even toys can clog or damage gutters, which can lead to water damage. Check and clean them regularly.

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    Moving Tips

    Moving into your home can be a whirlwind of activity. Here are some of the most important things you can do before, during, and after you move.

    Before You Move In

    Notify Utilities

    Contact the following utilities and let them know when you plan on moving in so they can begin service.

    • Electricity
    • Gas
    • Water
    • Trash
    • Internet

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    Notify for your Change of Address

    Contact the following and let them know your new address.

    • Banks
    • Credit Card Companies
    • United States Postal Service
    • DMV/RMV
    • Home & Auto Insurance
    • Your Employer

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    Do a Final Walk-Through

    Double-check items like electrical outlets and plumbing fixtures to assure everything is in agreed-upon working order.

    While You Move In

    Change or Rekey Your Locks

    Before you move everything in, change or rekey all locks.

    Keep All Important Documents With You

    It’s easy to lose things throughout a move. Make sure you know where your most important documents (e.g., passports, Social Security card) are at all times.

    Don’t Overwork

    Avoid injuries by taking your time, staying hydrated, and considering professional movers.

    After You Move In

    Register in the 2-10 Homeowner Portal

    When you register, you can view and review your coverage details; confirm your contact info; and get access to additional troubleshooting advice, exclusive appliance discounts, and home maintenance tips through our newsletters and blogs.

    Register Now

    Locate Your Water Main

    Knowing where your water main is before you need to know can prevent costly damage.

    Locate Your Gas Shutoff & Breaker Box

    Knowing where these items are can save your life. If you ever smell gas, leave the house immediately and call your local gas utility right away.

    Purchase a First-Aid Kit & First Extinguisher

    Purchase a fire extinguisher for each floor of your house, along with one each for the kitchen and garage. Place these items somewhere that’s easy to access quickly in case of emergency.

    Install Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

    Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can save your life. If your home comes with them, check that they work and install new batteries.

    Connect to Your Local Community

    Getting to know your neighbors and getting involved can improve your homeownership experience.

    • Introduce Yourself
    • Register to Vote
    • Throw a Housewarming Party
    • Register Your Kids for School
    • Get to Know Your HOA

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    Seasonal Maintenance Tips

    Year-round maintenance improves your experience of homeownership. Here are the most important pieces of seasonal maintenance you should do every year.

    Spring & Autumn Maintenance Tips

    Have Your HVAC Professionally Inspected

    A professional inspection can keep your HVAC in good shape for high-use seasons.

    Inspect Your Roof

    Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles and flashing. Missing or damaged shingles and flashing can causes leaks.

    Inspect Your Foundation

    Look for cracks, water stains, and leaks. Seal cracks with an appropriate waterproof caulk.

    Check your grout and caulk

    Regrout or re-caulk your tubs, sinks, and toilets if you notice cracking or flaking.

    Check Sprinkler Heads for Damage

    Repair as necessary. Make sure sprinkler heads are pointing away from your home’s foundation.

    Summer Maintenance Tips

    Drain Your Water Heater

    Draining your water heater helps remove sediment, which can help your water heater perform better and reduce the likelihood of breakdowns.

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    Keep Your HVAC Unit Free of Debris

    Turn off your A/C at the breaker. Remove any leaves from inside the unit. Then using a standard garden hose, spray down the fins (sides) to remove dirt and grime.

    Check Your Septic Tank

    Have a professional check your septic tank once a year to avoid costly failures. Signs of failure may include overly lush grass, consistent dampness, and foul odors.

    Inspect Exterior Siding & Trim

    Look for any damage. Touch up with paint as needed.

    Prune Trees & Shrubs

    This is especially important if they overhang your roof or are near downspouts.

    Inspect Attic for Pests

    If necessary, consult a professional about removal.

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    Inspect Cabinets & Countertops

    Inspect cabinets and countertops for damage. Clean, tighten hardware, re-caulk or refinish as needed.

    Clean Your Dryer Vent

    Clean on the inside and outside. This is different from your lint trap!

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    Clean the Refrigerator’s Condenser Coils

    Cleaning condenser coils helps the refrigerator perform more efficiently and reduces the likelihood of overheating.

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    Winter Maintenance Tips

    Insulate Exposed Water Pipes

    Water pipes in your garage, basement, crawl space, or under cabinets may require insulation.

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    Let Faucets Drip in Extreme Cold

    Allowing faucets to drip can help prevent water pipes from freezing in extremely cold temperatures.

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    Change Batteries in Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector

    Don’t take any chances. Change these batteries every year.

    Test Sump Pump

    Pour a few gallons of water into the sump pit to make sure the pump turns on. If it doesn’t kick on, it’s time to replace it.

    Cover Your Air Conditioner

    Falling ice, branches, and other debris can damage your outdoor A/C unit. Waterproof A/C covers can help, but make sure no small animals take shelter inside the unit under the cover. Consider weighing your cover down or placing a large piece of plywood on top of the unit to protect it from the elements.

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