Keeping Your Home Running Smoothly Through All Seasons
Living in Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs means dealing with dramatic temperature swings and varying weather conditions that can put extra strain on your home’s systems. Here’s what every homeowner should know about maintaining their home’s vital systems.
Heating System Maintenance
Your heating system requires regular attention to perform efficiently, especially during our cold mountain winters. Here are key maintenance tips:
• Schedule annual furnace inspections before the cold season begins
• Replace or clean air filters every 1-3 months
• Keep vents and returns clear of furniture and debris
• Listen for unusual sounds that might indicate problems
• Monitor your energy bills for unexpected increases
Plumbing Care Essentials
Our region’s varying temperatures can be tough on plumbing systems. Protect your pipes with these practices:
• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas
• Know the location of your main water shut-off valve
• Address drips and leaks immediately
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can damage pipes
• Keep outdoor spigots protected during freeze events
Prevention Is Key
Regular maintenance helps avoid emergency repairs and extends the life of your systems:
• Test your heating system before winter arrives
• Clean gutters and downspouts regularly
• Check for proper drainage around your foundation
• Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from utility lines
• Monitor water pressure levels
Remember that professional service technicians can spot potential issues before they become major problems, potentially saving you significant repair costs down the road.
When to Call Professionals
While some maintenance tasks are DIY-friendly, certain situations require professional expertise:
• Annual heating system inspections
• Complex plumbing repairs
• New system installations
• Persistent problems despite basic troubleshooting
• Emergency repairs
By following these guidelines and maintaining regular professional maintenance schedules, you can help ensure your home’s systems operate efficiently throughout Colorado’s challenging seasons.