Winter Service Checklist

R Seasonal Home Service Club

Introduction to R Seasonal Home Service Club

Welcome to R Seasonal Home Service Club, your trusted partner in maintaining a safe and comfortable home throughout the year. Our club is designed to simplify your life by providing tailored services aligned with the changing seasons. Each season brings its own unique set of maintenance needs, and our expert team is committed to ensuring that your home is prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.

Spring ushers in the perfect opportunity for deep cleaning and landscaping, allowing you to refresh your living space. Summer focuses on outdoor servicing and air conditioning checks, ensuring your home stays cool and inviting. As autumn settles in, we provide comprehensive inspections and preparations for winter, safeguarding your property from the impending cold. Finally, winter services include heating system maintenance and snow removal, providing peace of mind during the colder months.

With our membership, you gain access to four seasonal service packages, each meticulously crafted to address the specific demands of your home at the appropriate time of year. Join us in creating a seamless, worry-free home maintenance experience, so you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying your living space to the fullest.

Inspections

Exterior

Home Exterior

  • When conducting an inspection of outdoor lighting fixtures, it is important to check for any signs of damage, wear and tear, or malfunction. Start by visually inspecting the fixtures for cracks, corrosion, or loose connections. Test each light to ensure they are working properly and producing sufficient illumination. Check the bulbs for any signs of dimming or flickering, and replace them if necessary. Inspect the wiring and connections to make sure they are secure and undamaged. Lastly, clean the fixtures and lenses to improve visibility and extend their lifespan. Regular maintenance and inspection of outdoor lighting fixtures can enhance safety, security, and aesthetics around your property.

  • Checking the grading around your home is essential to prevent water damage and flooding. Proper grading ensures that water drains away from your foundation, protecting it from moisture and potential structural issues. Inspect the slope of the land around your home to ensure that water is directed away from the house. Look for any low spots or areas where water may pool and make sure they are properly graded to encourage drainage. Regularly checking and maintaining the grading around your home can help you avoid costly repairs in the future and keep your home safe and dry.

Roof & Gutter

  • Regular visual roof inspections of your home in the spring are crucial to ensure that your roof is in good condition after the harsh winter months. By conducting a thorough examination of your roof, you can identify any potential issues such as missing shingles, cracked flashings, or water damage. This proactive approach can help you address problems early on, saving you time and money in the long run. Remember, a well-maintained roof is key to protecting your home from the elements and extending its lifespan. Schedule your visual roof inspection this spring to keep your home safe and secure.

  • Check for sagging or loose gutters caused by winter ice buildup that as a result cause improper draining and damage over time. left for a season or two, an unstable gutter can spill enough water to damage the foundation.

    Ensure downspouts drain at least 4 feet away from house.

Doors & Windows

  • Ensure the longevity and efficiency of your home by examining your exterior doors and windows for signs of weathering, cracked caulking, and potential energy loss during heating and cooling seasons. Don't let small issues go unnoticed and turn into bigger problems later on. Inspect windows for proper sealing and re-caulk if necessary.

  • When inspecting weatherstripping, ensure to look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracking, peeling, or gaps. Check for proper alignment and ensure that the weatherstripping is creating a tight seal around windows and doors to prevent air leaks and moisture intrusion. Replace any damaged weatherstripping to maintain energy efficiency and protect your home from the elements. Regularly inspecting and maintaining weatherstripping can help prolong its lifespan and save you money on heating and cooling costs in the long run.

  • Inspecting window wells is crucial to ensure they are free from debris, clogs, and structural damage. Regular inspection of window wells can prevent water seepage into the basement, pests infestations, and potential hazards. Look for signs of cracks, rust, or loose bolts that may compromise the integrity of the window well. Clear out any leaves, dirt, or debris to maintain proper drainage and prevent blockages. Make sure the window well cover is securely in place to keep out debris and animals. Regular maintenance and inspection of window wells can help prevent costly repairs and ensure the safety and functionality of your property.

  • Check for any tears, holes, or damage, and repair them as needed to prevent insects from entering your home. Additionally, make sure to clean the screens regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can accumulate over time. By inspecting and maintaining your window screens, you can enhance the overall appearance of your windows and improve ventilation in your home.

Interior

Home Interior

  • When it comes to maintaining the functionality of your interior doors and windows, it's crucial to periodically check their operation. This task involves making sure that all doors open and close smoothly without any obstructions or squeaks. Additionally, testing the locks and handles to ensure they are working properly is essential for home security. For windows, ensure they open and close easily and check for any drafts that may indicate a need for weather-stripping. By regularly checking the operation of your interior doors and windows, you can prevent potential issues and prolong their lifespan.

Plumbing

  • Checking the kitchen drains, valves, and supply lines is essential for ensuring smooth water flow and preventing leaks or blockages. Regular maintenance can help identify any issues early on and prevent costly repairs in the future. Inspect the drains for any clogs or buildup, check the valves for proper functioning, and examine the supply lines for leaks or damage. By staying proactive and conducting routine checks, you can keep your kitchen plumbing in good condition and avoid potential water damage.

  • Ensure to regularly inspect and maintain your bathroom drains, valves, and supply lines to prevent potential issues such as leaks or clogs. Regularly checking these components can help you catch any problems early and avoid costly repairs down the line. By scheduling routine inspections and maintenance, you can ensure that your bathroom plumbing system remains in optimal working condition, promoting the longevity of your fixtures and preventing any disruptions to your daily routine. Remember that prevention is key when it comes to maintaining your bathroom's plumbing, so don't forget to check your drains, valves, and supply lines regularly.

  • When inspecting a basement floor drain, it is important to check for any signs of clogs, leaks, or damage. Start by removing any debris or buildup in the drain to ensure proper water flow. Look for any signs of water pooling around the drain, which could indicate a leak. Check the surrounding area for water damage or mold growth, as these can be signs of a bigger issue. Ensure that the drain is properly connected and functioning to prevent any potential flooding or water damage in the basement. Regular inspection and maintenance of the basement floor drain can help prevent costly repairs in the future.

Exterior

Home Exterior

  • Winterizing hose bibs is crucial to prevent freezing and damage during the cold winter months. To winterize hose bibs, start by disconnecting hoses and draining any remaining water from the bibs. Insulate outdoor bibs with covers or foam to protect them from freezing temperatures. Consider installing frost-proof hose bibs for added protection. By taking these simple steps to winterize your hose bibs, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that your outdoor water fixtures are ready for springtime use. Stay ahead of the winter weather by preparing your hose bibs now.

  • Regular garage door maintenance is essential to ensure smooth operation and prolong the lifespan of your garage door. Here are some key tips for garage door maintenance:

    1. Inspect the hardware such as springs, cables, and rollers for any signs of wear and tear.

    2. Keep the tracks clean and well-lubricated to prevent friction and ensure smooth movement.

    3. Check the balance of the door to prevent strain on the opener and motor.

    4. Test the safety features, such as sensors, to make sure they are functioning properly.

    5. Consider scheduling professional maintenance at least once a year to address any potential issues before they escalate.
      By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your garage door in optimal condition and avoid costly repairs in the future.

  • De-Winterize Patio Furniture

Roof & Gutter

Services

  • Check for sagging or loose gutters caused by winter ice buildup that as a result cause improper draining and damage over time. left for a season or two, an unstable gutter can spill enough water to damage the foundation.

    Ensure downspouts drain at least 4 feet away from house.

HVAC

  • To ensure optimal airflow and efficiency, it’s crucial to clean the area around your AC condenser unit regularly. Here are some guidelines to follow:

    *Clear leaves, branches, and outdoor debris to prevent clogging of the air intake.

    *Maintain a plant-free zone: Keep at least an 18-inch plant-free zone around the unit to avoid airflow obstructions.

  • Hose down the unit: Use a gentle stream from a garden hose to rinse off dirt and debris.

Interior

Home Interior

  • Regularly test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home to ensure they are in proper working condition. This simple task can save lives by providing early warnings in case of fire or gas leaks. Make it a habit to test these devices at least once a month by pressing the test button and listening for the alarm sound. Additionally, remember to replace the batteries every year and replace the entire unit every 7-10 years. Your safety and that of your loved ones depend on these life-saving devices, so make testing them a priority in your household routine.

  • When it's winter and you need to stay cozy, it's important to know how to turn the pilot on in your fireplace. Follow these steps to safely light up your fireplace and create a warm atmosphere in your home. Remember to always handle gas appliances with caution and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific fireplace model. Enjoy the comfort and ambiance of a crackling fire during the cold winter months by successfully lighting the pilot in your fireplace.

HVAC

  • r home service provides seasonal air filter changes to keep you up to date and your system running at its optimal performance. Say goodbye to worrying about the air quality in your home and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with regular maintenance. Trust r home service to ensure that your HVAC system is running efficiently and effectively all year round. Let us take care of your air filter changes so you can breathe easy and enjoy a comfortable environment in your home. Partner with r home service for all your HVAC maintenance needs and experience the difference in air quality and system performance.

Plumbing

  • Checking the kitchen drains, valves, and supply lines is essential for ensuring smooth water flow and preventing leaks or blockages. Regular maintenance can help identify any issues early on and prevent costly repairs in the future. Inspect the drains for any clogs or buildup, check the valves for proper functioning, and examine the supply lines for leaks or damage. By staying proactive and conducting routine checks, you can keep your kitchen plumbing in good condition and avoid potential water damage.

  • Ensure to regularly inspect and maintain your bathroom drains, valves, and supply lines to prevent potential issues such as leaks or clogs. Regularly checking these components can help you catch any problems early and avoid costly repairs down the line. By scheduling routine inspections and maintenance, you can ensure that your bathroom plumbing system remains in optimal working condition, promoting the longevity of your fixtures and preventing any disruptions to your daily routine. Remember that prevention is key when it comes to maintaining your bathroom's plumbing, so don't forget to check your drains, valves, and supply lines regularly.

  • Sump pump and check valve testing is a crucial maintenance task for any home with a basement or crawl space. Regularly testing your sump pump ensures that it will function properly when needed, such as during heavy rainfall or flooding. The check valve is equally important as it prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit after the pump has shut off. To test these components, you can pour water into the sump pit to activate the pump and observe its performance. Check that the water is being properly discharged and that the check valve is preventing any backflow. It is recommended to conduct this testing at least once a year to avoid any potential water damage in your home.

Appliances

  • Cleaning refrigerator coils is an essential task to ensure optimal performance of your fridge. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the coils, making it harder for the refrigerator to cool efficiently. To clean refrigerator coils:

    1. first unplug the fridge to ensure safety.

    2. Locate the coils, which are usually found either at the back or underneath the unit.

    3. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove the dirt and dust from the coils. You can also use a coil cleaning brush or a damp cloth to wipe away any stubborn debris.

    Regularly cleaning the coils will not only help your fridge run more efficiently but also extend its lifespan.

  • Cleaning your dryer vent is crucial for preventing fires and ensuring efficient drying. A clogged dryer vent can lead to overheating and potentially ignite lint buildup. By regularly cleaning your dryer vent, you can improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fire hazards.

    It is recommended to clean your dryer vent at least once a year or more frequently if you notice longer drying times or excessive lint buildup.

    Hiring a professional service or using a DIY cleaning kit can help maintain a clean dryer vent and keep your home safe.

    Remember, a clean dryer vent is essential for the safety and performance of your dryer.

  • A stove exhaust filter, also known as a range hood filter, is a crucial component of your kitchen’s ventilation system. Its primary function is to capture grease, smoke, and particles emitted by cooking activities, preventing them from circulating back into the air and potentially causing unpleasant odors, health issues, and damage to your kitchen.
    Types of Stove Exhaust Filters:

    • Charcoal filters: These filters use activated charcoal to absorb odors and particles and are commonly used in recirculating mode.

    • Carbon filters: Similar to charcoal filters, carbon filters capture impurities and are used in recirculating mode.

    • Metal mesh filters: These filters feature a metal mesh design that traps larger particles and debris and are used in exhaust mode.
      Maintenance and Cleaning Frequency:

    • Clean your stove exhaust filter every 1-3 months, depending on your cooking habits.

    • Use a gentle cleaning solution and a soft-bristled brush to remove grease and debris.

    • Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
      Benefits of Proper Maintenance:

    • Improved Air Quality.

    • Extended Filter Life.

    • Reduced Odors.
      Remember to check your filter’s manufacturer instructions for specific cleaning guidance.