It is definitely recommended you have your garage door inspected periodically. The garage door is the largest moving object and potentially the most dangerous one in our homes, yet it often goes for years without needed maintenance. Usually it’s when the door stops working that the call for help is sounded.

Typically for around $100, a garage door professional will do an inspection and tune-up, which should include adjusting springs and cables, lubricating moving parts, tightening all hardware, tracks and hinges, inspecting the safety sensors and opener gears, as well as troubleshooting other issues. By staying on top of needed maintenance, you’ll protect yourself from potentially expensive repairs down the road.

One frequent problem with garage doors is a broken spring. Springs generally last anywhere from 5 to 7 years before needing replaced. Living in a cold-weather climate can cause springs to wear out even faster. Other common issues include squeaky hinges, stripped gears, and liquid or debris covering the photo sensors, which can keep the garage door from shutting properly.

You can keep your garage door operating smoothly on your own in between inspections by lubricating the tracks with 3 in 1 oil or a white lithium grease spray. Adding a lubricant like petroleum jelly to the bottom of the rubber door seal can help keep it from sticking to the ground when the temperatures drop below freezing.

You can also test the functionality of your garage door on your own in manual mode. Disconnect the opener by pulling on the red release cord or lever. The door should lift up easily. If it is difficult to lift, there could be a problem with the spring tension and you should contact a professional.

One very important safety feature on most garage doors is the reversing action they take if there is something blocking the door as it closes. You can test the reversing feature by placing a small piece of wood on the floor in the center of the door and pushing the button to close the door. When the door comes in contact with the wood, it should immediately reverse back to the open position. If it doesn’t, contact a qualified service provider for repair.

Though these are some simple steps you can take on your own to keep your garage door operating smoothly and safely, you should avoid contact with springs and cables unless you understand fully how those components will react. Never take bolts out or hardware off your door. Because of the high tension involved with garage doors, serious injuries can occur if handled improperly. When in doubt, call out a qualified professional.

How do you keep track of them all? The best way is to create a simple schedule for the entire year, listing all of your home’s filters and when to check, clean and/or replace each one. This is also a good place to jot down the filter specs (product number, description, size, etc.) so you’ll know exactly what to buy when it’s time for replacement. To help get you started on your yearly filter schedule, here’s a list of the most common HVAC devices and when their filters should be checked.

Forced-Air Furnace

Check the filter monthly during the heating season. If you have central air conditioning, also check the filter each month throughout the cooling season. Replace the filter at the beginning of each heating season (and cooling season, if applicable) and anytime the filter looks dirty during your monthly checks. Hold the filter over a bright light to see how dirty it is. Tip: Install filters with the arrows (printed on the filter frame) in the direction of the system’s airflow.

Evaporative Cooler

Many newer evaporative coolers (a.k.a. swamp coolers) have air filters that clean the intake air before it gets to the cooling pads. Some also have water filters that remove minerals and sediment from the supply water. As with the cooling pads, filters should be checked, cleaned and/or replaced based on the site conditions and how much the unit is used. With heavy use, check the filters and pads once a month during the cooling season. The same goes for portable indoor units.

Air Conditioner

Conventional central AC units typically don’t have air filters on the AC unit itself. However, many units should have their condenser and evaporator coils cleaned regularly per the manufacturer’s directions. As mentioned above, the furnace or other air handler inside the house has a filter that needs a monthly inspection. Window AC units usually have a washable air filter that should be inspected and cleaned at least once a month during the cooling season.  Contractor Kevin Stevens of KMS Woodworks said on Hometalk.com, “Running the fans in an open recirculating mode will still cause the filters to ‘load’ with dust and debris, whether the AC is adding cooling or not. A lot of homes vary in the levels of ‘dust’ that are present based on traffic patterns, pets, cleaning practices, etc. The real test is to inspect and swap them out based on your particular case.”

Ventilation Fans

Range hoods in the kitchen may have one or more filters that help capture grease, vapor and odors. With recirculating (non-ducted) units, the filter is especially important; without it, the hood is just a fan that blows unfiltered cooking exhaust into the room. Some filters are washable and others are simply disposable. The maintenance schedule on filters entirely depends on the type and amount of cooking you do, but inspecting the filters at least every few months is recommended.

Bathroom vent fans typically don’t have filters, but it’s a good idea to inspect and clean the intake grill and make sure the vent cap on the outside of the house is unobstructed and that the flap works properly, sealing over the duct when the fan unit is off.

Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV)

HRVs (and ERVs) typically have a filter for both incoming and outgoing air, and these need to be cleaned or replaced regularly. Consult the owner’s manual or manufacturer for maintenance schedules.

A Note About Filters

Homeowners have a lot of questions about filters, particularly furnace filters. At the same time, filter manufacturers make numerous claims on their packaging regarding efficiency and longevity, and these claims are misleading and often not verifiable in real-life situations. Some filters are indeed better than others, but not all types are ideal for every furnace. For example, if your furnace is designed (or the blower is set) for a standard filter, you might experience reduced airflow if you switch to a high-efficiency filter. This can also stress the blower motor because it has to work harder to move air through the filter.

If you’re having problems with dust and other particles, a better filter probably will help, but make sure you get the right filter for your equipment. Ask your HVAC pro during your next system checkup, or call the furnace manufacturer for recommendations.

Identify and Repair All Leaks and Cracks

The following are common building-related sources of water intrusion:

• Windows and doors: Check for leaks around your windows, storefront systems and doors.
• Roof: Improper drainage systems and roof sloping reduce roof      life and become a primary source of moisture intrusion. Leaks are also common around vents for exhaust or plumbing, rooftop air-conditioning units, or other specialized equipment.
• Foundation and exterior walls: Seal any cracks and holes in exterior walls, joints and foundations. These often develop as a naturally occurring byproduct of differential soil settlement.
• Plumbing: Check for leaking plumbing fixtures, dripping pipes      (including fire sprinkler systems), clogged drains (both interior and exterior), defective water drainage systems and damaged manufacturing equipment.
• Ventilation, heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems: Numerous types, some very sophisticated, are a crucial component to maintaining a healthy, comfortable work environment. They are comprised of a number of components(including chilled water piping and condensation drains) that can directly contribute to excessive moisture in the work environment. In addition, in humid climates, one of the functions of the system is to reduce the ambient air moisture level (relative humidity) throughout the building. An improperly operating HVAC system will not perform this function.

Prevent Water Intrusion Through Good Inspection and Maintenance Programs

Hire a qualified InterNACHI inspector to perform an inspection of the following elements of your building to ensure that they remain in good condition:

• Flashings and sealants: Flashing, which is typically a thin metal strip found around doors, windows and roofs, are designed to prevent water intrusion in spaces where two building materials come together. Sealants and caulking are specifically applied to prevent moisture intrusion at building joints. Both must be maintained and in good condition.
• Vents: All vents should have appropriate hoods, exhaust to      the exterior, and be in good working order.
• Review the use of manufacturing equipment that may include water for processing or cooling. Ensure wastewater drains adequately away, with no spillage. Check for condensation around hot or cold materials or heat-transfer equipment.
• HVAC systems are much more complicated in commercial buildings. Check for leakage in supply and return water lines, pumps, air handlers and other components. Drain lines should be clean and clear of obstructions. Ductwork should be insulated to prevent condensation on exterior surfaces.
• Humidity: Except in specialized facilities, the relative      humidity in your building should be between 30% and 50%. Condensation on windows, wet stains on walls and ceilings, and musty smells are signs that relative humidity may be high. If you are concerned about the humidity level in your building, consult with a mechanical engineer, contractor or      air-conditioning repair company to determine if your HVAC system is properly sized and in good working order. A mechanical engineer should be consulted when renovations to interior spaces take place.
• Moist areas: Regularly clean off, then dry all surfaces where moisture frequently collects.
• Expansion joints: Expansion joints are materials between bricks, pipes and other building materials that absorb movement. If expansion joints are not in good condition, water intrusion can occur.

Protection From Water Damage

• Interior finish materials: Replace drywall, plaster, carpet and stained or water-damaged ceiling tiles. These are not only good evidence of a moisture intrusion problem, but can lead to deterioration of the work environment, if they remain over time.
• Exterior walls: Exterior walls are generally comprised of a number of materials combined into a wall assembly. When properly designed and constructed, the assembly is the first line of defense between water and the interior of your building. It is essential that they be maintained properly (including regular refinishing and/or resealing with the correct materials).
• Storage areas: Storage areas should be kept clean. Allow air to      circulate to prevent potential moisture accumulation.

Act Quickly if Water Intrusion Occurs

Label shut-off valves so that the water supply can be easily closed in the event of a plumbing leak. If water intrusion does occur, you can minimize the damage by addressing the problem quickly and thoroughly. Immediately remove standing water and all moist materials, and consult with a building professional. Should your building become damaged by a catastrophic event, such as fire, flood or storm, take appropriate action to prevent further water damage, once it is safe to do so. This may include boarding up damaged windows, covering a damaged roof with plastic sheeting, and/or removing wet materials and supplies. Fast action on your part will help minimize the time and expense for repairs, resulting in a faster recovery.

Carpet cleaning can improve the appearance of your home and extend the life of your carpet, but perhaps the most valuable benefit from the process is improving you and your family’s health. According to the American Lung Association, if members of your household suffer from conditions that can affect their breathing, such as snoring or asthma, it’s especially crucial that you vacuum your carpets at least three times a week. Beyond vacuuming regularly, you may also benefit from having your carpets professionally cleaned at least once a year. If you’re not fully convinced of the benefits of professional carpet cleaning, consider the following top three ways the process leads to a healthier home:

1. Carpet cleaning eliminates trapped pollutants.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a dirty carpet can retain several sources of indoor air pollutants, including pet dander, cockroach allergens, lead, particle pollution, and everyday dirt and dust. Toxic airborne gases can adhere to these particles and also get trapped within the carpet. These toxic gases can be released through everyday activities such as vacuuming and walking across the carpet, which can cause them to contaminate the air in your home. Professional carpet cleaning services kills these bacteria through special shampooing formulas and can remove deeply trapped pollutants with high-powered vacuums.

2. Carpet cleaning can clear out dust mite infestations.

Many homes have dust mite infestations, yet most homeowners aren’t aware of the infestation, because the creatures are microscopic. Dust mites themselves aren’t allergens, but they often leave behind feces and body fragments which are. Because of the microscopic size of these particles, they can easily be inhaled when the area is disturbed, which can exacerbate allergies. Many professional carpet cleaning companies utilize a technique known as steam cleaning when performing carpet maintenance work, which exposes your carpet to high temperatures that dust mites can’t survive.

3. Carpet cleaning can help prevent mold growth.

Especially in areas with high humidity levels, dirty carpets are at a high risk of developing mold growth when exposed to moisture. In precipitous weather, moisture frequently gets tracked into the home and can sink deep in the carpet fibers if not dried and vacuumed immediately. Having your carpet cleaned regularly can prevent mold and mildew growth, because professional carpet cleaners have high-powered drying tools that annihilate moisture. By eliminating moisture, you can prevent mold growth that can be harmful to your health if ignored for too long.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that forms from incomplete combustion of fuels, such as natural or liquefied petroleum gas, oil, wood or coal.

Facts and Figures

• Most CO exposures occur during the winter months, especially in December (including 56 deaths, and 2,157 non-fatal exposures), and in January (including 69 deaths and 2,511 non-fatal exposures). The peak time of day for CO exposure is between 6 and 10 p.m.
• Many experts believe that CO poisoning statistics understate the problem. Because the symptoms of CO poisoning mimic a range of common health ailments, it is likely that a large number of mild to mid-level exposures are never identified, diagnosed, or accounted for in any way in carbon monoxide statistics.
• Out of all reported non-fire carbon-monoxide incidents, 89% or almost nine out of 10 of them take place in a home.

Physiology of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

When CO is inhaled, it displaces the oxygen that would ordinarily bind with hemoglobin, a process the effectively suffocates the body. CO can poison slowly over a period of several hours, even in low concentrations. Sensitive organs, such as the brain, heart and lungs, suffer the most from a lack of oxygen.

High concentrations of carbon monoxide can kill in less than five minutes. At low concentrations, it will require a longer period of time to affect the body. Exceeding the EPA concentration of 9 parts per million (ppm) for more than eight hours may have adverse health affects. The limit of CO exposure for healthy workers, as prescribed by the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration, is 50 ppm.

Potential Sources of Carbon Monoxide

Any fuel-burning appliances which are malfunctioning or improperly installed can be a source of CO, such as:

• furnaces;
• stoves and ovens;
• water heaters;
• dryers;
• room and space heaters;
• fireplaces and wood stoves;
• charcoal grills;
• automobiles;
• clogged chimneys or flues;
• space heaters;
• power tools that run on fuel;
• gas and charcoal grills;
• certain types of swimming pool heaters; and
• boat engines.
  

CO Detector Placement

CO detectors can monitor exposure levels, but do not place them:

• directly above or beside fuel-burning appliances, as appliances may emit a small amount of carbon monoxide upon start-up;
• within 15 feet of heating and cooking appliances, or in or near very humid areas, such as bathrooms;
• within 5 feet of kitchen stoves and ovens, or near areas locations where household chemicals and bleach are stored (store such chemicals away from bathrooms and kitchens, whenever possible);
• in garages, kitchens, furnace rooms, or in any extremely dusty, dirty, humid, or greasy areas;
• in direct sunlight, or in areas subjected to temperature extremes. These include unconditioned crawlspaces, unfinished attics, un-insulated or poorly insulated ceilings, and porches;
• in turbulent air near ceiling fans, heat vents, air conditioners, fresh-air returns, or open windows. Blowing air may prevent carbon monoxide from reaching the CO sensors.

Do place CO detectors:

• within 10 feet of each bedroom door and near all sleeping areas, where it can wake sleepers. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) recommend that every home have at least one carbon monoxide detector for each floor of the home, and within hearing range of each sleeping area;
• on every floor of your home, including the basement (source:  International Association of Fire Chiefs/IAFC);
• near or over any attached garage. Carbon monoxide detectors are affected by excessive humidity and by close proximity to gas stoves (source:  City of New York);
• near, but not directly above, combustion appliances, such as furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces, and in the garage (source:  UL); and
• on the ceiling in the same room as permanently installed fuel-burning appliances, and centrally located on every habitable level, and in every HVAC zone of the building (source:  National Fire Protection Association 720). This rule applies to commercial buildings.

In North America, some national, state and local municipalities require installation of CO detectors in new and existing homes, as well as commercial businesses, among them:  Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont and New York City, and the Canadian province of Ontario. Installers are encouraged to check with their local municipality to determine what specific requirements have been enacted in their jurisdiction.

How can I prevent CO poisoning?

• Purchase and install carbon monoxide detectors with labels showing that they meet the requirements of the new UL standard 2034 or Comprehensive Safety Analysis 6.19 safety standards.
• Make sure appliances are installed and operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes. Have the heating system professionally inspected by an InterNACHI inspector and serviced annually to ensure proper operation. The inspector should also check chimneys and flues for blockages, corrosion, partial and complete disconnections, and loose connections.
• Never service fuel-burning appliances without the proper knowledge, skill and tools. Always refer to the owner’s manual when performing minor adjustments and when servicing fuel-burning equipment.
• Never operate a portable generator or any other gasoline engine-powered tool either in or near an enclosed space, such as a garage, house or other building. Even with open doors and windows, these spaces can trap CO and allow it to quickly build to lethal levels.
• Never use portable fuel-burning camping equipment inside a home, garage, vehicle or tent unless it is specifically designed for use in an enclosed space and provides instructions for safe use in an enclosed area.
• Never burn charcoal inside a home, garage, vehicle or tent.
• Never leave a car running in an attached garage, even with the garage door open.
• Never use gas appliances, such as ranges, ovens or clothes dryers to heat your home.
• Never operate un-vented fuel-burning appliances in any room where people are sleeping.
• During home renovations, ensure that appliance vents and chimneys are not blocked by tarps or debris. Make sure appliances are in proper working order when renovations are complete.
• Do not place generators in the garage or close to the home. People lose power in their homes and get so excited about using their gas-powered generator that they don’t pay attention to where it is placed. The owner’s manual should explain how far the generator should be from the home.
• Clean the chimney. Open the hatch at the bottom of the chimney to remove the ashes.  Hire a chimney sweep annually.
• Check vents. Regularly inspect your home’s external vents to ensure they are not obscured by debris, dirt or snow.In summary, carbon monoxide is a dangerous poison that can be created by various household appliances. CO detectors must be placed strategically throughout the home or business in order to alert occupants of high levels of the gas.

Ten simple steps you can take to keep your septic system working properly:

1. Locate your septic tank and drain field. Keep a drawing of these locations in your records.

2. Have your septic system inspected at least every three years.

3. Pump your septic tank as needed (generally, every three to five years).

4. Don’t dispose of household hazardous waste in sinks or toilets.

5. Keep other household items, such as dental floss, feminine hygiene products, condoms, diapers, and cat litter out of your system.

6. Use water efficiently.

7. Plant only grass over and near your septic system. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs might clog and damage the system. Also, do not apply manure or fertilizers over the drain field.

8. Keep vehicles and livestock off your septic system. The weight can damage the pipes and tank, and your system may not drain properly under compacted soil.

9. Keep gutters and basement sump pumps from draining into or near your septic system.

10. Check with your local health department before using additives. Commercial septic tank additives do not eliminate the need for periodic pumping and can be harmful to your system.

How does it work?

A typical septic system has four main components: a pipe from the home, a septic tank, a drain field, and the soil. Microbes in the soil digest and remove most contaminants from wastewater before it eventually reaches groundwater. The septic tank is a buried, watertight container typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. It holds the wastewater long enough to allow solids to settle out (forming sludge), and oil and grease to float to the surface (as scum). It also allows partial decomposition of the solid materials. Compartments and a T-shaped outlet in the septic tank prevent the sludge and scum from leaving the tank and traveling into the drain field area. Screens are also recommended to keep solids from entering the drain field. The wastewater exits the septic tank and is discharged into the drain field for further treatment by the soil. Micro-organisms in the soil provide final treatment by removing harmful bacteria, viruses and nutrients.

Your septic system is your responsibility!

Did you know that, as a homeowner, you’re responsible for maintaining your septic system? Did you know that maintaining your septic system protects your investment in your home? Did you know that you should periodically inspect your system and pump out your septic tank? If properly designed, constructed and maintained, your septic system can provide long-term, effective treatment of household wastewater. If your septic system isn’t maintained, you might need to replace it, costing you several thousands of dollars. A malfunctioning system can contaminate groundwater that might be a source of drinking water. And if you sell your home, your septic system must be in good working order.

Pump frequently…

You should have your septic system inspected at least every three years by a professional, and have your tank pumped as necessary (generally every three to five years).

Use water efficiently…

Average indoor water use in the typical single-family home is almost 70 gallons per person per day. Dripping faucets can waste about 2,000 gallons of water each year. Leaky toilets can waste as much as 200 gallons each day. The more water a household conserves, the less water enters the septic system.

Flush responsibly…

Dental floss, feminine hygiene products, condoms, diapers, cotton swabs, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, paper towels, and other kitchen and bathroom waste can clog and potentially damage septic system components. Flushing household chemicals, gasoline, oil, pesticides, anti-freeze and paint can stress or destroy the biological treatment taking place in the system, as well as contaminate surface waters and groundwater.

How do I maintain my septic system?

· Plant only grass over and near your septic system. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs might clog and damage the drain field.

· Don’t drive or park vehicles on any part of your septic system. Doing so can compact the soil in your drain field or damage the pipes, the tank or other septic system components.

· Keep roof drains, basement sump pump drains, and other rainwater and surface water drainage systems away from the drain field. Flooding the drain field with excessive water slows down or stops treatment processes and can cause plumbing fixtures to back up.

Why should I maintain my septic system?

A key reason to maintain your septic system is to save money! Failing septic systems are expensive to repair or replace, and poor maintenance is often the culprit. Having your septic system inspected (at least every three years) is a bargain when you consider the cost of replacing the entire system. Your system will need pumping every three to five years, depending on how many people live in the house and the size of the system. An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property’s value and could pose a legal liability. Other good reasons for safe treatment of sewage include preventing the spread of infection and disease, and protecting water resources. Typical pollutants in household wastewater are nitrogen phosphorus, and disease-causing bacteria and viruses. Nitrogen and phosphorus are aquatic plant nutrients that can cause unsightly algae blooms. Excessive nitrate-nitrogen in drinking water can cause pregnancy complications, as well as methemoglobinemia (also known as “blue baby syndrome”) in infancy. Pathogens can cause communicable diseases through direct or indirect body contact, or ingestion of contaminated water or shellfish. If a septic system is working properly, it will effectively remove most of these pollutants.

According to recent reports from the EPA and World Health Organization, radon gas is responsible for approximately 20,000 deaths in the U.S. and 100,000 deaths worldwide each year. This equates to about 15% of all lung cancer deaths. Statistically, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers and the second leading cause for smokers.

According to The Environmental Protection Agency, over 8 million U.S. homes have dangerous levels of radon gas. The Surgeon General is urging the media, state health departments, and the press to participate in National Radon Action Month by helping to promote awareness of this silent killer. Testing for radon is easy and inexpensive. Radon problems can be fixed in most homes for under $1,000.

January 2012 (which is National Radon Action Month) is the perfect time of year to test for radon gas.  Testing in the summer time is difficult because occupants tend to keep windows and doors open for longer durations which could skew the results of the test.  Since winter time is when people tend to spend more time indoors, it makes sense to test during this time.  It’s a good idea to conduct a long-term or multiple short-term tests because radon levels can vary from season to season.

All homes should be tested for radon regardless of the age of the home, geographic location, or type of construction.  Radon problems have been found in every state in the U.S. and since you cannot see, smell, or taste radon, the only way to know if your home is affected is to conduct a test.  The EPA recommends that you conduct a test at least once every two years because radon levels can fluctuate over time.  If you find that your radon levels are above the EPA’s limit of 4.0 pci/L, a qualified contractor can install a radon reduction system to fix the problem.  In most cases, the work can be completed in a single day.

Radon gas causes more deaths each year than any other in-home hazard including fires, carbon monoxide, drowning, poisoning, falls, and even guns!  National Radon Action Month is an ideal time to make your household a safer place.  You can learn more about 2012 National Radon Action Month and local activities that you can participate in and help create awareness about this deadly carcinogen at by visiting http://www.epa.gov/radon/nram/index.html

MC2 Home Inspections is dedicated to helping consumers test for Radon in their homes. Our Radon testing includes the use of a CRM (Continuous Radon Monitor) rather than the typical charcoal canister method. The CRM provides a detailed hourly view of the Radon levels in the home, provides more accurate readings and is less likely to be tampered with during the testing period. If you live in the Indianapolis area and would like to have your home tested for Radon, call us today to schedule an appointment.

“Your home really can tell you where it hurts,” said Angie Hicks, founder of Angie’s List. “You just need to understand what it’s saying.”

Paying attention to the basics of home care is a lot like brushing your teeth or exercising and eating well, Hicks said. “Taking care of the basics will save you stress, time and money. Neglecting them won’t just cost you more down the road, it could actually put your family in danger,” she said.

Angie’s seven signs your house needs professional care:

Up on the roof: A small issue with your roof doesn’t mean you need to replace the whole thing. But letting the little things go only means you’re in for big bills later. If you notice loose shingles, have attic leaks, suspect chimney issues or see other signs of damage up high, call in a reputable roofer, gutter or chimney expert or a handyman to give you great advice about what you need done.

Leaks don’t fix themselves: Leaky faucets and running toilets will just get worse, so do yourself a favor and get those fixed before major damage occurs. If you notice a jump in your water bill but haven’t increased your usage, you likely have a hidden leak, which, left undetected, could lead to mold, wood rot and severe water damage. Don’t work with anyone who isn’t happy to show you his or her plumbing license.

Caulk it up: The caulking around your tub and shower prevents moisture penetration, which can lead to mold, tile and wall damage and warped cabinetry. Keeping everything watertight will save you a bundle, so be sure to repair any caulking failures. But don’t stop there. All homes get cracks and voids in their outside walls over time. Look closely at where two boards come together, because cracks often start there. Also look for damage from animals that are looking for a way in. Caulk any cracks you see to avoid water penetration, subsequent wood rot and to keep the critters out.

Sparks fly: Lights that dim on their own schedule aren’t just annoying, they’re a clear signal that you have an electrical problem. Experts say too many homeowners tolerate this situation for too long, which puts their homes at risk for electrical fire. Another often tolerated too long issue is when using one device causes another to switch off because you’ve tripped a breaker or blown a fuse. This is a sign you have a capacity or circuit box issue. Less dangerous but still signal worthy are springy outlets that don’t hold plugs. If you have any of these issues, call in a licensed, reputable electrician.

Drafty doors and windows: Improperly sealed windows and doors will bring cold air inside during the winter and let cooled air out in the summer, costing you big bucks on your energy bill. An energy audit can tell you where your leaks are and how to seal them up.

Filter it out: HVAC experts say 60 percent of their service calls result from systems stressed by dirty air filters. Changing air filters regularly (every quarter or so; more if you have pets) can save you up to $100 each year on your energy bill, and will keep you from needing emergency repair. Many highly reputable heating and air conditioning companies offer maintenance plans that include an annual inspection. Doing this will give you an early alert to any issues you have with your entire HVAC system so you can stave off breakdowns.

Pump it up: Take a look at your sump pump from time to time. If it’s in good shape and its batteries are good, it could save you thousands of dollars in flood damage. But you don’t want to find out it needs repairs after the water starts rising. Get an annual inspection and check the batteries at least quarterly.

Angie’s List (http://www.angieslist.com) collects consumer reviews on local contractors and doctors in more than 550 service categories. Currently, more than 1.5 million consumers across the U.S. and Canada rely on Angie’s List to help them make the best hiring decisions.

But homeowners often replace worn, damaged gutters with new ones, only to neglect the routine maintenance they require, and end up with more damaged gutters.

What are the benefits of clean gutters?

• A lack of maintenance will lead to damage, which would require gutter repair or replacement. Properly maintained, gutters should last 20 years, if not more.
• Clogged gutters can cause problems with water damage, by allowing water through the foundation level, window wells, or roof line. This can then lead to mold.
• Clean gutters can help prevent landscaping erosion and cracks in your home’s foundation.
• Gutters filled with debris fill faster with water and ice and weighted down can collapse. Gutters can also overflow with ice and snow, leading to ice damming. This can lead to water being trapped on the roof, forced under shingles and up the roof line.

Angie’s List, the nation’s premier provider of consumer reviews, asked highly rated gutter cleaning companies for the inside scoop on proper maintenance and how to extend the life of your gutters.

• Twice a year: Gutters and downspouts should be inspected and cleaned at least twice a year – once in the spring and again in the fall after the leaves have stopped falling. Homes in heavily wooded areas may need a cleaning three or four times a year. Expect to pay about $100 or more per cleaning, depending on the size of your home.
• What you should look for: Regularly walk around your home and look for leaking or sagging gutters, loose or damaged fasteners, and streaking in front or back of the gutter.
• Check gutter screens/guards: Gutter protection systems can help keep debris from settling in the gutter – allowing water that does collect to flow freely through the downspouts. But that doesn’t mean these products are maintenance-free. Check regularly that these are not damaged or clogged with leaves.
• Time to replace? If you notice your gutters pulling away from the fascia board (the board that holds the gutter) or your gutters to continue to overflow after having already been cleaned, it could be time to replace them. The cost to replace aluminum gutters is between $4 and $7 per foot.
• Don’t forget gutter miter seams: Be sure gutter miter seams, the corner seam where gutters bend, are caulked properly. Miter seams not caulked can eventually lead to the gutter board or soffits rotting out. Pay special attention to drips from seams occurring over walkways, or leaks that may be causing harm to the adjoining wood fascia. These should be repaired.

Angie’s List hiring tips:

• Licensed & insured: Working on gutters requires the use of a ladder, which can be dangerous. When hiring a professional, check that the company is licensed and insured – ask to see their policy – do they have worker’s compensation protection for employees? Check that YOU have enough homeowners insurance.
• Be informed: If you have to replace your gutters, there are many types available today (aluminum, vinyl, copper, stainless steel) so be sure you learn about the pros and cons of each.
• Read the fine print: When purchasing new gutters, be sure to read all the details before signing a contract. Check the warranty – look for a warranty that runs at least 20 years.

The over abundance of distressed homes on the market has certainly contributed a great deal to these numbers. So just what do these numbers mean? Well, from a home inspectors standpoint, it would appear to indicate a significant downward spiral in home maintenance. It also underscores the importance of obtaining a professional home inspection during the home buying process.

Falling home prices and equity are of great concerns to many homeowners and home buyers. Many people are simply putting off repair and maintenance work as they are not sure they want to spend money in this market situation.

If you’re worried about falling home prices, here’s some good news: Ongoing home maintenance can actually help protect your investment, ward off even more expensive repairs and make your home more comfortable for you and your family. More importantly it will also help to make your home more appealing and easier to sell. Many current home owners do not think about the ramifications of not performing home maintenance until they are ready to sell their home. It is important for all home owners to realize, 87% of all home buyers obtain a home inspection before finalizing the deal. If your home has been neglected, a potential buyers home inspection can be your worst nightmare.

A home is a very valuable asset that, for many people, is the biggest investment they will ever make. That’s why it is so important to keep up with repairs and maintenance, especially if you’re concerned about declining home values in your area.

Home maintenance may seem mundane, particularly when compared with large scale renovations, but it’s well worth the time and money. Routine maintenance protects the value of your home just as regular servicing prolongs the useful life of your car and regular checkups maintain your physical health.

What’s more, home maintenance can save you money since small problems that are neglected can very easily turn into much larger problems that will be much more costly to fix later down the road.

Here’s a list of some very basic home maintenance tasks that can help you keep your home in tip top shape:

● Replace broken or missing roof shingles to prevent water damage and extend the life of your roof, which is one of the most expensive components of your home.

● Check your heating and cooling system annually. Replace disposable filters every month or as recommended by your HVAC service technician.

● Hire a professional chimney sweep to inspect and clean your fireplace once a year. Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use.

● Scrub concrete decks, walls and walkways annually with a bucket of warm water and baking soda, and a stiff brush or push broom. It is also important to seal your concrete using a quality silicone based concrete sealer every two to three years. This will help to prolong the life of your concrete as well as protect you from those unsightly cracks and heaved sections that will eventually pose a liability to you.

● Clean exterior doors, window frames and screens after the rainy season ends. An annual cleaning and inspection of the exterior portions of your doors and windows will alert you to moisture rot. Caught early, this is an inexpensive repair. Ignored, and this becomes a much more expensive repair.

● Clear your rain gutters of debris and repair any breaks once or twice a year. Force a stream of water upwards to clear a blocked downspout. Keeping your gutters and downspouts clear also helps to prevent foundation issues. When gutters are clogged with debris, rain water spills over the gutter and lands about a foot away from your foundation. Excessive moisture around any foundation will eventually lead to some form of foundation problem. Along with your roof, your foundation is one of the most expensive items in your home to repair.

● Empty your hot water heater annually or as recommended by the manufacturer. (Some newer models can be drained from the bottom to save water.) This simple chore can help your water heater last many years longer.

● Paint the exterior and interior of your home every few years or as needed. Indianapolis weather wreaks havoc on the exterior of your home. A fresh coat of paint can not only improve the look of your home, but also help to prevent moisture damage and deterioration to exposed wood from peeling/flaking paint.