March 20th is the official start of spring, and even if there’s snow on the ground, you know that warmer weather is right around the corner. March is also when we turn the clocks ahead and get that much-needed extra hour of daylight. This month is a great time to tackle some of those tasks around your house that often are neglected.

Here’s our home maintenance checklist for the month of March.

Checking Your Smoke and CO2 Detectors

Start by checking your smoke and CO2 detectors to confirm they’re working. The batteries should be replaced twice a year. The start of spring and again at the beginning of autumn are good times to do this. Being consistent will help ensure you remember to do this easy task that could save your life or that of someone you love.

Get Your Air Conditioner Serviced

With warmer weather approaching, now’s the time to contact your local HVAC company to have your air conditioner maintenance scheduled to help you can stay cool all summer long.

Qualified technicians can check if there are any problems with the parts or components to spot minor issues before they cause major problems.

Not only will servicing ensure your air conditioning is working properly, but also that it’s working efficiently. Even something as simple as a dirty radiator can slow the unit down and make it work harder.

Test Your Sump Pump

Spring brings lots of rain. If your home has a sump pump, this is the time of year when Mother Nature will be putting it to the test.

Homes use sump pumps to move excess ground water away from the home’s foundation to stop it from seeping into the basement. If your pump stops working, water could get in, causing mold, mildew, and even flood damage.

March is the perfect time to test your sump pump to verify it’s working. And while you’re in the basement, it’s a good time to look for signs of leaks. Look for cracks in the cement, check the washing machine hoses, and examine the windows for any signs of damage or leakage.

Eliminate Clutter

Get a jump on spring cleaning by removing things that have been piling up over the winter. Eliminating mess also eliminates stress. In fact, a study found that women who described their homes as cluttered were more likely to have higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Now’s the time to clean out the garage and basement, as well as drawers, closets, or anywhere you tend to dump things. You can try and sell unwanted items online, donate them to charity, or give them away to family, friends, or neighbors.

If you have work that requires referrals or have any questions, email KT Realty at info@kormendytrott.com or call 1 (800) 617-0090.