Three Things Every Homeowner Should Clean Before Winter

While there is a long list of maintenance items homeowners should be doing annually these are three that we see neglected often. The consequences, by far, outweigh the time and cost of the maintenance.

1. Clean out your dryer vent. This is a simple chore that is best done before the cold temps and snow get here. We are much less likely to venture outside once old man winter arrives. Many fires occur every year from clogged dryer vents.
2. Clean your gutters.  Once winter hits with freezing temps and ice and snow problems occur. Gutters and downspouts cannot drain and will freeze and back up. This will cause ice dams and dangerous conditions which can be extremely costly to repair.
3. Clean your chimney. If you burn wood or pellets, you should have your chimney inspected and  cleaned prior to burning. Compromises in the liner can allow dangerous exhaust to enter your home. Clogged flues will not draft properly and can cause chimney fires. 

If you would like any further maintenance tips and /or any further information about our services please visit our website www.insideoutnh.com or give me a call.  Please feel free to share this email with interested colleagues or clients!

Thank You

Jamie Durand, Owner

InsideOut Home Inspection

603-548-6852

insideoutnh@gmail.com

Money Saving Tips

A great list of some basic money saving tips for first time home buyers or long time home owners.

http://www.thesimpledollar.com/18-things-a-new-homeowner-should-do-immediately-to-save-money/

Well Water

   If you are purchasing a home with a private well, then water quality testing should be important to you and your family. Many contaminants often have no taste, odor or color. Their presence can only be determined by laboratory testing. DES recommends that prospective homebuyers test the water in a home with a private well before purchase. Water quality in wells is typically stable and testing every 3-5 years is recommended. Bacteria and nitrates are exceptions and it is recommended they be tested every year. Here are several links with beneficial information for byers and home owners with private wells.
http://des.nh.gov/organization/divisions/water/dwgb/wwb/

http://www.nelsonanalytical.com/

http://www.nhwaterwell.com/

http://wellowner.org/basics/

http://water.epa.gov/drink/info/well/index.cfm

Portable Generators

Having a generator ready for power outages in New England is a great idea. It can provide peace of mind and allow your family to be comfortable and safe at home during severe weather. Making sure we understand how to operate them and operate them safely is imperative.  After all keeping us safe and secure is the goal! The article below details some basic rules for operating a generator safely.

 

 

http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/GeneratorSafety.shtml

Cord Wood

Stacking and storing your cord wood

 

Summer is quickly coming to an end and in New England the urge to be prepared for the long winter months ahead will soon kick in. Making sure your heating wood is properly stacked and ready to burn is a growing concern for many. This article offers some general guidelines to make sure your wood is ready and you don't get left out in the cold.

 

http://www.woodheat.org/stacking-firewood.html