August Maintenance Tips
August 2, 2011
- Remove pest magnets. Debris such as tools, firewood, lumber, yard waste and toys all create an ideal environment for pests. These areas are common hiding places for many types of pests including spiders and invites them into the home. Lumber, yard waste and fire wood can also trap moisture against the house that attract spiders, mice and wood-destroying insects.
- Make sure your garbage cans seal tightly. If you haven’t yet had problems with dogs, rats or raccoons getting into your trash you may be lucky. A tightly sealed garbage can may prevent unwanted access to your trash and save you the hassle of clean-up. If your cans don’t seal tightly, consider using tie-downs or replacing the cans. It is also a good idea to periodically hose out your garbage cans.
- Eliminate any sources of standing water. Standing water is an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Unused planters, low spots, and children’s toys are some likely sources of standing water. Remove them to help eliminate mosquitoes.
- Inspect and maintain your water heater. Do it during business hours on a weekday so you can get help if you find problems. Check the water heater thoroughly for leaks, rust spots or buldges. Inspect under the water heater with a flashlight to look for leaks. If any leaks, rust spots or buldges exist, contact a plumber. Test the valve that controls temperature and pressure on tank-type water heaters. Do this once a year because, if the valve becomes stuck in the on or off position, an explosion can result. Work carefully because the water in the tank is extremely hot. Put a bucket under the water heater’s overflow pipe to catch the drainage. The valve is at the top of the water heater and is recognizable because it has a small handle. Lift the test handle for five seconds to release a little water, then close it. If the valve refuses to close, or if nothing comes out, call a plumber immediately to replace it.
