Spring cleaning is just around the corner and you might be dreading it. Don’t. Spring cleaning is a welcome Canadian tradition. It signifies the changing of the seasons, and brings to mind airy afternoons with open windows and sunshine—well, the ‘spring’ part does, then there’s the actual cleaning bit.

Most spring cleaning lists check off the obvious chores, but there are some less obvious tasks that should be a part of your springtime routine. To keep your house in tip-top shape—give the following systems an annual check.

• Prepare your air conditioning unit. Ensure debris is removed, drainage holes are clear, and filters are changed as necessary. This is a great time to schedule a routine maintenance appointment with a qualified technician. This routine check will keep your system working at peak performance levels. Give us a call at 519-885-2740 or contact us here to schedule your appointment.

• Check your dehumidifier. Ensure that it is clean and in good working order.

• Clean bathroom fans and ceiling fans. Ensure the power is off, take covers off and clean with soapy water and a good brush. Make sure they are completely dry before restoring power.

• Check toilet flappers and seals. If they are showing some age, replace them before they start leaking.

• Inspect faucets, hoses and pipes. Remove all faucet handles and inspect screws for rust. Check hoses leading to dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerators. And inspect outdoor faucets for leaks.

• Inspect caulking and weather-stripping around windows and doors. Proper seals will keep out the heat and humidity of summer and save you money on your energy bills. (A plastic drinking straw and some duct tape makes for a handy extension tube for caulking those hard-to-reach places.)

• Clean out gutters and downspouts of winter debris and check them for damage from ice. The weight of ice can cause sagging, which can be corrected by pitching it back to level with fasteners. Ensure they slope properly towards the down spouts. Consider installing screens or protectors over gutters.

• Check foundation erosion. Build up low spots with soil and slope away from foundation. Ensure all downspout outlets are at least 3 feet from the side of your house.

• Give your roof and shingles a once-over. Inspect for lifting shingles, holes, water damage or signs of critter damage around vents, chimney and exhaust areas. Use proper safety equipment or call in the pros.

• Check smoke detectors, carbon-monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers. Check batteries (which should be changed twice a year) and dust or vacuum the detectors to keep them working at peak performance. Ensure extinguishers are fully charged and readily accessible.