With spring right around the corner, it’s a good time to perform a routine safety check on your home. Performing small housekeeping tasks like changing your smoke detector batteries or cleaning your dryer vent can save you time, money and ensure your home remains safe. We’ve compiled a list of common safety hazards and how you can work proactively to prevent these from happening in your home.
Dryer Safety & Upkeep
A commonly overlooked appliance that requires occasional upkeep is your dryer. One of the most common ways to take care of your dryer is to clean out the vent and lint filter. Cleaning this regularly will prevent build up that can lead to fire hazards and keep your dryer in top shape.
We recommend thoroughly cleaning your dryer vent and duct system at least twice a year. We find that most homeowners perform these clean ups around November and March, just in time for the weather change. Don’t forget to clean your lint screen before each use to avoid further issues with your appliance.
Water Heater Safety
Water heaters are such an important appliance in your home. When it comes to upkeep for your water heater, there are a few different parts we recommend checking.
Temperature & Pressure Release Valve
This element of your water heater helps prevent your tank from exploding and keeps your temperature at a safe level. These parts can be prone to failure, so we recommend checking this yearly. Here are two ways to check & perform upkeep:
Pull up on the handle, make sure water freely flows and stops when you let go. If nothing happens or the water continues to run/drip, it’s time to replace the valve.
If the valve is working, flush water through to eliminate residue that may have built up over the past year.
Temperature Settings
It is very important to ensure your water heater is set to the right temperature. We recommend checking to ensure your water heater is set to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will prevent bacteria and the risk of an explosion.
If your water heater is gas powered, please make sure you clear the surrounding area of anything that could be combustible. We also recommend installing a carbon monoxide monitor if you do not already have one near your water heater. These tips will help maintain your home’s safety.
Refrigerator Safety
Just like any appliance, if you don’t keep up with your refrigerator regularly, you may experience issues. We recommend cleaning inside, outside, behind and under your refrigerator to eliminate dust and debris that could lead to potential fire hazards or food borne illnesses. If you have small children or pets, we also recommend anchoring your appliance to the wall to prevent your fridge from falling.
We recommend cleaning the inside of your refrigerator every 3-4 months. When cleaning the exterior, make sure all cords are intact and stored safely to avoid damage to your appliance.
If you're seeking a reliable Handyman servicing South Central Pennsylvania or Northern Maryland areas, don't hesitate to reach out! Our team is fully licensed, insured, and equipped to tackle tasks of any size with efficiency and expertise.
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