Spring Maintenance Tips for Apartments
The arrival of spring is a perfect time to clean the house and get it ready for the good weather. To thoroughly and successfully spring clean your home, follow the basic rules and spring maintenance tips for apartments below.
Water Quality
Being able to enjoy quality water and not polluted water in your home is essential. There are different types of water treatments so that their consumption properties are optimal and daily practices that you can carry out on a daily basis to improve its conditions. Try not to use the toilet as a trash can. This way you will avoid the contamination of the water and the overload of the treatment plants. Use grates in the sink, bidet, shower, and sink.
To remove the chlorine taste from tap water, fill a bottle with water and leave it in the fridge overnight to remove the highly volatile chlorine. Throw the coffee grounds from the coffee pot in the trash: although they have a reputation for cleaning the drains, they actually make the work of water treatment plants difficult and add pollution to rivers. Use the right doses of washing machine and dishwasher detergent, gels, and shampoos and try to make them less aggressive for the environment. To avoid limescale build-up in appliances, use low-temperature programs. If the water in your house is very hard, install anti-scale filters or softeners.
One of the spring maintenance tips for apartments is to connect filters to the tap of the sink or install them in the tap. These filtering devices retain the different pollutants and eliminate bad odors and flavors. The tap filters allow you to obtain pure water with a neutral taste instantly. Filters installed under the sink reduce chlorine in the water using a 10-second filter. Some have a double-action; that is, they remove impurities and prevent limescale.
What are its main advantages? They work in an automatic and very economical way, save in general water consumption, and purify water to be used for drip irrigation. It can also be infiltrated directly into the ground or into a ditch once purified. In general, make sure that the products you use for home maintenance and personal hygiene do not contain polluting elements. It is about choosing cleaning products based on biodegradable active ingredients, which limit the impact on the environment.
Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are one of the main problems faced by apartments and homeowners. The first recommendation is the permanent maintenance of all roof surfaces and gutters. If it is a slab roof, it is necessary to check if it has cracks. What type of deterioration has it suffered over the years? If roofing repairs are needed, it is ideal to hire an expert roofer. You should also check to make sure it is free of debris. It is advisable to periodically apply a sealant according to its deterioration. These products not only eliminate leaks but also increase their durability. Plus, many of them are environmentally friendly. For each type of roof, be it asbestos, metal, tile, etc., there is a sealant that can guarantee a good job.
When you think about spring maintenance tips for apartments, do not forget to check roofs, terraces, and patios. Bad winter weather may have damaged the roofs, the flooring of the terrace, or the patio of the house, so it is advisable to review their condition. Remember that a home insurance policy will cover some of the damages that may have occurred during the cold months.
Check enclosures and downspouts to make sure that they have not loosened so that water does not enter or cleaning the downspouts and gutters of leaves are important activities at this time of year when rain is frequent and can cause damage. Remember that there are many waterproofing techniques. The important thing is to apply the appropriate one as the case may be. Although it does not cause cracks, if leakage, you have to pay close attention to the angle of inclination of the roofs. Each roof element, depending on the type, has its own technical specifications, and it is essential to comply with them as indicated on its technical sheet.
Bathroom Repairs
The bathroom is one of the most used rooms in a home and therefore needs more maintenance. Here are some extensive spring maintenance tips for apartments specifically relating to the bathroom.
After living in the house for a while, the bathroom deteriorates due to use, but only to the point that you need a facelift, such as a bathtub and shower installation. This facelift can be simple to make certain repairs within the bathroom. Another simple thing to do is clean the shower area and the showerhead, which can be one of the dirtiest places because it’s a source of humidity and bacteria. To clean the shower head cheaply and easily, immerse it in an airtight bag and distilled vinegar poured inside.
With the passage of time and the use of the bathroom, the joints of the tiles deteriorate and blacken, becoming very unsightly. Repairing the joints of the bathroom tiles is a simple task to perform and that falls within the bathroom repairs that we can do ourselves. The first step will be to properly clean the area before proceeding with the repair of the tile joints, and it will be necessary to have a tube of putty ready to be used.
As with tile joints, over time stains appear in the bathtub that makes it older and more outdated than it really can be. Removing these ugly stains from the bathtub can be done easily and cheaply by applying vinegar with a sponge. If the stains resist, a paste can be made by mixing bicarbonate with vinegar and applying it to the stain that does not want to be removed with a scouring pad. Let the paste act and later remove it with water.
If you hear water constantly seeping into the toilet and the tank, and it doesn’t seem to fill u, then you may need a flush valve repair. The solution is to fit the kit with a new valve, which will not take more than a few minutes after understanding the process.
The first thing is to close the water flow to the tank or reservoir and then the old discharge valve must be removed. Remove the water that remains in the tank with a sponge, clean the seat of the old valve, and remove the remains of sediment. If your kit comes with a sealing ring, glue it to the seat and replace the valve. Once installed, put the cord through the guide ring and fasten it to the lever rod so that when actuated it allows the valve to release the water. To better understand how to install the discharge valve, watch a video that explains the step-by-step process.
Sewage Repairs
The sewage from an apartment usually consists of viruses and bacteria. These can result in diseases. It also consists of high levels of phosphorous and nitrogen. This promotes algae growth. For that reason, you need your septic pumps system to be well maintained, and it should also function appropriately to remove these disease-causing contaminants. If you do not maintain your septic system properly, it could risk the health of anyone who lives in your apartment. It could also cause damage to the environment and subsequently cost you money.
The main reason for providing proper treatment to sewage from septic tanks is to prevent infection and disease and to contribute to the ecological well-being of groundwater. If the sewage from an apartment, for example, was not being properly treated and purified, it could be contaminating the waters near the seashore, increasing the possibility that bathers would acquire diseases such as hepatitis, gastritis, or infections of the eyes and ears. If the septic tanks are working properly, they will effectively remove most of the contaminants.
Another good reason to be concerned about septic tank maintenance is to save money. This is one of the spring maintenance tips for apartments that you should really consider. Malfunctioning septic tanks are very expensive to repair or replace, and poor maintenance is usually the reason for this. Septic tanks typically need pumping every three to five years, depending on the number of people residing in the home, the size of the septic tank, and the frequency of use of the home throughout the year (seasonality). Defective septic tanks can depreciate property values, inconvenience neighbors, and even lead to legal claims.
Make sure to have it inspected by a professional at least once every three years. The professional will first locate the system, open the access covers, check for signs of clogging or binding, measure the layer of mud and the water level, identify if there are leaks, check the mechanical components, and pump the septic tank if necessary.
For maintenance, periodically apply bacteriological products that help accelerate the decomposition of organic solids that, biodegraded and converted into water, will prevent obstructions and bad odors, facilitating percolation towards the subsoil and giving a long life to your pit. For cleaning, and upon inspection, septic tanks may need to be pumped every five years or more, depending on the ongoing maintenance provided to them. This is one of the essential spring maintenance tips for apartments.
Efficiency of Heating and Cooling Systems
Air conditioning systems require a preventive maintenance program that must be carried out twice a year, preferably before the most demanding seasons: summer and winter. This makes the springtime a great time of year to check off this item from your spring maintenance tips for apartments list.
Heating and cooling systems are complex and have different moving parts. The most common today is the mini-split type, which has two units: one indoor and one outdoor, each with different maintenance needs. It is important that each element receive preventive maintenance by a trained professional, who, in addition to cleaning, will look for electrical, motor, or elements that have suffered wear and tear.
Replace filters frequently. In environmental conditions, the atmosphere has more pollutants derived from its activities, from skin particles to material residues, dust, or chemical residues that can saturate the HVAC filter. Based on the evaluation, the filters should be replaced every two to three months. Depending on the model of the equipment, the filters can be disposable or washable, and the latter only requires water and mild soap to clean.
The best way to keep HVAC systems in top condition is to receive preventive maintenance from a trained professional who offers warranties and provides comprehensive service. However, if you need furnace repair and water heater repair, you can still call the professional to have this done for you. You should definitely consider this as one of the ideal spring maintenance tips for apartments.
Ensuring Fire Safety
The possibility of having a fire at home is something that rarely occurs, and yet this possibility is unfortunately real. It could happen if a pan is forgotten on the stovetop, if the iron is left on, if a plug makes a bad connection, or if an armchair gets too close to the fireplace. The danger is always lurking around the home, and that is why fire alarms are so important. A fire alarm system includes smoke detectors and fire extinguishers to prevent fires at home.
Knowing the risks is the first measure to know how to identify the potential causes that may originate a domestic accident and to further increase the level of safety. Fire alarms are essential preventive measures to put in place. Have your fire detectors tested, and replace the batteries if necessary. Consider these steps as some of the important spring maintenance tips for apartments.
Air Conditioner Installation
Before the arrival of summer, it is necessary to carry out the appropriate maintenance work on the fans and air conditioning equipment. Equipment must be cleaned, filters must be replaced, and ducts must be checked before it is time to use the equipment in a few months. If your A/C has broken down, then you need to hire air conditioning installation services. The first thing is to choose the type of air conditioning that best suits your home. Make sure that it is efficient as it relates to electricity consumption to save on the electric bill.
The most commonly installed split-type air conditioners have two main parts, namely the diffuser, which is the part that emits the cold and is usually installed inside the house, and the pump, which is installed outside. On top of that, you need a way to drain the condensation. It can consist of a direct drain. Other times, the tube ends in a tank, or container, that has to be emptied periodically.
You will have to choose two locations, one being the right one for the diffuser inside the house. This is done to optimize the cooling so that it reaches everywhere in the apartment. It must be on a clean and unobstructed wall, which supports the weight of the device and where it can be placed at a little more than two meters so that it does not disturb. The right one for the pump outdoors is the other location. Keep in mind that they can no longer be installed on facades due to the danger that they could fall into the street.
Spring Cleaning the Inside of Your Apartment
As the weather warms up, one thing many apartment owners have in mind is spring cleaning. This is a time to get rid of some of the things in your home. However, you should have a specific plan on how you want to do this. The first thing to do is to tackle rooms that have been neglected. This could be a room where you have not un-boxed your stuff yet.
Every day, do a little cleaning to declutter each room. If you have not used something for over a year, then you don’t necessarily need it. You can give it to charity or get rid of it. Organize the things you want to throw away, the things you want to keep, and the ones you want to give to charity. Hire a company that does residential trash pickup to get rid of the things you want to trash.
Opening the windows wide, allow the light to enter, and the air in all the rooms to be completely renewed. In the event that you have balconies, terraces, or gardens, remove the accumulated dirt so that it does not get into the house. Then, they are ready to welcome the good weather too.
At least once per season, it is advisable to thoroughly clean the upholstery of sofas, armchairs, and other furniture that is covered with fabric. Also take the opportunity to change the bedding, curtains, and sofa, and cushion covers for fresher ones (and if you are sensitive to allergies). For those who suffer from allergies, this is one of the most essential spring maintenance tips for apartments.
Consulting Your Landlord
When you live in an apartment or other rental property, it is important to have an amicable relationship with the landlord. Therefore, prior to cleaning, repairing, and throwing out stuff, it is best to consult with your landlord to see what you can or cannot do. You don’t want to overstep your boundaries and responsibilities because you don’t want to have to hire a landlord attorney unless absolutely necessary.
Now that you have an idea of the things to focus on, it is time to start planning for your spring cleaning. When you live in an apartment, there may be fewer things to do, but it is still important. Choose the most significant spring maintenance tips for apartments first after organizing a plan on how to proceed.