Don’t forget, Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 9. As we prepare to spring forward, it’s a great time to perform some spring home maintenance. Haller’s handy checklist will help keep your home safe and in tip-top shape this season. Need some help? Contact Haller today!
1. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors & Smoke Alarms
Your carbon monoxide (CO) detectors and smoke alarms are your home’s first line of defense against invisible dangers. Testing them regularly ensures they’ll work when you need them most. Press the test button on each device to confirm it’s functioning properly. If it doesn’t beep or sounds weak, replace the batteries immediately. It’s a good habit to swap out batteries at least once a year, even if they seem fine—better safe than sorry!
Beyond testing, check the manufacture date on your CO detectors and smoke alarms. Most CO detectors should be replaced every 5 to 7 years, while smoke alarms typically last 10 years. Over time, their sensors can weaken, making them less effective at detecting threats. If it’s time for an upgrade, consider installing low-level CO monitors for enhanced protection—these can detect dangerous CO levels long before standard alarms go off, keeping your family even safer.
Not sure if your detectors are up to date? Haller can help by installing new, reliable CO monitors and smoke alarms to give you peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or replacement!
2. Have Your A/C System Inspected
Spring is the perfect time to get ahead of the game and have your A/C system inspected. As the temperatures rise, you don’t want to be left sweating it out in a hot house because your system’s not up to snuff. A professional inspection from Haller ensures your A/C is running efficiently, saving you energy and money in the long run. Plus, a clean, well-maintained system can improve air quality and extend the lifespan of your unit.
During the inspection, a Haller technician will check for any potential issues—like dirty filters, refrigerant leaks, or worn-out parts—before they become major problems. Trust us, catching those issues early is always easier (and cheaper!) than dealing with an A/C breakdown in the middle of a heatwave.
3. Clean Gutters & Downspouts
We’ve all heard the saying “April showers bring May flowers,” but with all that rain comes a real need to keep your gutters and downspouts clear. Over the winter, leaves, twigs, and other debris can build up and clog your gutters, leading to water backup and potential damage to your roof, siding, or foundation. If your gutters are clogged, rainwater won’t flow properly, and that could cause some serious issues around your home.
Cleaning your gutters every spring (and sometimes fall, depending on your surroundings) ensures that water can flow freely away from your home, protecting your roof and foundation from costly water damage.
4. Check Your Sump Pump
When spring rains come pouring down, the last thing you want is a flooded basement. That’s why checking your sump pump is a must. The sump pump works behind the scenes to keep water from accumulating in your basement or crawl space. If it’s not working properly, you could end up with unwanted water damage.
Take a few minutes to check the pump for any debris or blockages that could prevent it from doing its job. Test the system by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and making sure the pump kicks on and drains the water properly. If your sump pump isn’t working—or if it’s on its last legs—don’t wait until a downpour hits to find out. If you do run into any sump pump issues, Haller is here for you!
5. Change Ceiling Fan Direction
Did you know your ceiling fan’s direction affects your home’s comfort and energy efficiency? If you switched your fan to a clockwise rotation for the winter, it’s time to switch it back! In the spring and summer, your ceiling fan should rotate counterclockwise to push cool air down, creating a refreshing wind-chill effect that makes the room feel cooler without actually lowering the temperature.
This simple adjustment can help you rely less on your air conditioning, reducing energy use and potentially lowering your cooling costs. The U.S. Department of Energy states that using a ceiling fan allows you to raise your thermostat by about 4°F without sacrificing comfort—meaning big savings over the course of the season.
How to Change Your Ceiling Fan’s Direction
- Turn Off the Fan – Always turn the fan off before adjusting the settings to avoid any accidents.
- Find the Direction Switch – Most ceiling fans have a small switch located on the base near the motor.
- Flip the Switch to Counterclockwise – When standing directly under the fan, you should feel a strong breeze when it’s set correctly.
- Adjust Your Speed Settings – A higher speed will create a stronger cooling effect, perfect for those warm spring and summer days.
Bonus Tip: Clean Your Fan Blades!
While you’re up there, take a moment to dust off the fan blades. Over time, dust and allergens collect on the blades, and when the fan is turned on, that dust gets circulated throughout your home. A quick wipe-down can improve air quality and prevent unnecessary allergies.
Small adjustments like this can make a big difference in home comfort and energy efficiency. Need help optimizing your home’s cooling system? Contact us today to schedule an A/C tune-up or get expert advice on keeping your home comfortable all season long!
6. Flush Your Hot Water Heater
Flushing your hot water heater is an often overlooked part of home maintenance. Over time, sediment builds up inside the tank, which can affect performance and even lead to damage. While professional maintenance is always a great option, flushing your water heater is something many homeowners can do themselves. And remember, when it comes to water heater maintenance or replacement, the Haller team is here for you!
Click here to check out our Step-by-Step Guide and learn how to flush your water heater!
Spring Forward with Confidence!
As we welcome longer days and warmer weather here in central and eastern PA, taking the time to complete these essential home maintenance tasks will set you up for a smooth and stress-free season. From ensuring your A/C is ready to keep you cool to preventing water damage and optimizing energy efficiency, these small efforts can have a big impact on your home’s comfort, safety, and longevity.
Need a hand with your spring maintenance checklist? Whether it’s an A/C tune-up, sump pump repair, or water heater service, Haller is here to help! Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your home running at its best all season long.
