Are you prepared for spring cleaning?

Spring cleaning is more than an annual tradition. It’s the necessary response to a long winter of tightly sealed homes and trapped indoor allergens. Wiping the slate clean of accumulated dust and dander provides a fresh start prior to peak allergy season.

To ensure your household can breathe easier in the coming months, add these three oft-forgotten tasks to your spring-cleaning regimen.

Dust Off Your Books
You probably wipe down your bookshelves, but what about the books themselves? Left unchecked, accumulated dust and dander can damage book covers and turn pages yellow over time. You can safely remove these allergens with a microfiber cloth or soft-bristle brush.

Clean the Range Hood
As cooking fumes pass through your range hood and filter, grease and food particles are left behind. This buildup should be removed every few months to ensure efficient ventilation. To clean:

• Power down the hood.
• Spray it with a 1:1 vinegar and water solution and let it sit for 15 minutes.
• Wipe the hood clean with a microfiber cloth.
• For stubborn buildup, use a soft-bristle brush and a gentle degreaser.
• Change the filter if necessary.

Sweep the Chimney
Chimneys often serve as exhaust points for heating appliances such as furnaces and water heaters. So even if you haven’t used the fireplace, your chimney could be full of soot and creosote. Chimneys can also make warm winter homes for nesting critters that leave behind droppings and other debris.

Cleaning the chimney eliminates these issues, improving exhaust efficiency and reducing the risk of fire. It’s best to call a professional who has the specialized knowledge and tools to do the job safely and thoroughly. They can also inspect the structural integrity of the chimney, flue and combustion chamber and provide certification for insurance purposes.

Do you want to learn about financing options for home repairs or upgrades? Reach out today.