January tends to be a quiet month when it comes to getting projects done around the house.  After all, everyone is recovering from the holidays and, of course, it’s usually too cold to want to do anything.

Well, for this month, we have provided a short list of maintenance chores to make sure your home’s systems are running at peak efficiency.

•  Change furnace air filters or clean permanent filters at the furnace.
• Look for condensation on windows and doors and correct by reducing moisture in home.
• Check for loose air ducts or leaks at duct seams and repair by securing or sealing with HVAC tape.
• Clean refrigerator coils with a vacuum cleaner.
• Check the refrigerator seal for tightness – close the door on a dollar bill – half in and half out.  If it pulls out easily, the hinge or seal may require adjustment or replacement.
• Check for cold drafts at electrical outlets and switches.  Install foam insulators as necessary.

Taking the half hour or so it would require to go through this list can go a long way in keeping your utility bills in check and your home’s systems operating properly.

And don’t forget, if you would like a top to bottom review of all your home’s components, we are just a phone call away.  We would be happy to provide you with a comprehensive home maintenance inspection to ensure your home is operating as it should.

Lawrence Watkins is a NYS Licensed Home Inspector and the President of Specsure Property Inspections.  As a leading full service residential home inspection and commercial property inspection company proudly serving Buffalo, Lewiston, Orchard Park and all of Western New York (WNY) for over 20 years, we are pleased to provide timely and simple DIY tips and hints for today’s homeowner.

For more information you can reach us at 716-881-1914 or via email at info@specsure.com.