Spring is officially upon us and the heat of Summer is just around the corner. Prior to turning on your air conditioning unit for the year, it’s important to have your ductwork checked and regular maintenance performed. Tucked beneath the floorboards and in the walls of our homes, many of us forget about this all-important aspect of our HVAC systems. When your ductwork is functioning well, you can expect lower energy use and save on your heating and cooling bills.

Along with routine maintenance to your HVAC system, we recommend a few ways to make sure your ductwork is ready for summer and higher energy use:

Regular Cleaning

Throughout the year, dust, dirt and other allergens can buildup in your ductwork causing the air quality in your home to suffer. Clogged ducts also mean inefficiency, causing your air ducts to work harder to sustain the temperature in your home. At least once a year we recommend a thorough, professional cleaning of your duct system to remove any buildup. To clean your ductwork, a team of professionals will use specialized tools to ensure each component of your HVAC system is cleaned and ready for use. This cleaning, along with regular filter changes, will help ensure the air you and your family breathe is dust and mold free.
 

Duct Sealing

Leaky ductwork is wasted money. Not only are you losing the air that is pumping through your system, but you’re also causing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home. To ensure your system is functioning at full capacity, call a professional. An HVAC professional will walk through your system and check for any leaks. If leaks are found, they may use a sealant or metal tape to stop the leaks or add insulation if needed. If the leaks are due to faulty or ill-fitting parts, the HVAC professional will replace the parts, ensuring a properly sealed connection.

Keep Out Critters

Along with unwanted leakage, ductwork that is not properly sealed can invite unwanted pests. With many homes ductwork exiting the home on a lower level, there are ample opportunities for critters to make there way in the ductwork. This can be combated by having a professional out to check for gaps in the ductwork. Once the gaps are sealed, they may also suggest the installation of mesh screens near the outside openings of your ductwork to prevent any unwanted guests from getting in.

Condensation Removal

As the temperature and humidity rise, so does the chance for ductwork sweating. While some light condensation on your ductwork is fine, if you notice consistent moisture on your system, you may want to have it looked at. This buildup of moisture can cause an issue such as mold and mildew growth or water damage. Moisture on your ductwork can be caused by poor sealing or poor insulation. A professional HVAC technician can help pinpoint the problem and provide solutions to keep your home and family safe.

Now’s the time to have your ductwork maintained and ready for summer!

Call the team at ServiceMark for all your HVAC needs. Our team of exceptional heating, cooling and plumbing technicians and support staff are ready 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help ensure your home is comfortable and safe this summer. With same-day service and certified technicians who arrive on time, every time, guaranteed, you’ll be in good hands with the ServiceMark team!

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Spring is right around the corner, and along with sun and warmth comes spring allergens and humid summer air. Before the weather changes, it’s a good time to perform regular AC maintenance to ensure your system is in tip-top shape.

Don’t Wait! Get Your HVAC Serviced Before the Hot Weather Arrives! Schedule your AC service appointment with ServiceMark today!

Calling on a certified HVAC system specialist will ensure your system is maintained properly. There are many components involved in an HVAC system that require the tools and knowledge only an experienced technician has. When a technician comes to your home for preventative maintenance, they may do the following:

Perform a Tune-Up

Proper refrigerant levels are what keep the cold air flowing in our homes. A technician will check for refrigerant leaks and provide a recharge if necessary. They will also clean and lubricate all moving parts. When AC systems are well lubricated, they are less prone to friction and will use less energy when running.

Inspect Fans/Blowers

Fans and blowers that are not working properly due to buildup or lack of lubricant can decrease your home’s energy efficiency. While performing spring AC maintenance, your technician will turn on the unit and check how the fans are running. If they seem slow or sluggish, they may lubricate the parts or suggest a replacement.

Clean Cooling Components

Dirty cooling components, such as the cooling coils, can reduce your system’s ability to cool your home. This reduction in cool air means a longer run time and more energy use. Your HVAC technician will clean these coils along with the evaporator, condensation lines, and condenser to bring them back into proper working order.

Check and Replace Filters and Other Components

Throughout the year, our HVAC systems work to pull dust and allergens out of the air we breathe. These particles end up in the filter. To make sure HVAC systems are working as they should, filters need to be replaced regularly. Filters are especially helpful during the spring when allergens are floating through the air.

If it is found that the fluid levels are low, or wiring needs repair, your technician will also fix these issues to ensure your AC system is in good working order before summer use.
 

Test the System

After the service is performed, your technician will run a system test to make sure it is running properly. This test will check the efficiency of the system and the different components, as well as the cycle run time. If the technician has completed all servicing needs, your system should be back to running at the manufacturer’s standards, meaning your system will be running efficiently. A system tune-up can save you money on energy bills and increase the longevity of your AC unit.

If your AC unit is in need of a tune-up, call ServiceMark. Our expert heating and cooling technicians are committed to your comfort and are available for 24-hour service, seven days a week. Schedule your AC service appointment with ServiceMark today!

Don’t Wait! Click To find our AC Tune-Up Offers!

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Considering installing an air conditioning unit in your home? Many people are aware of the big air conditioning units typically seen outside of homes, but there is another built-in option: a split system air conditioner. Also known as a ductless air conditioner, split system air conditioners consist of two components, one inside and one outside of the home. With no need for ductwork, these split systems are a great option for homes that rely on floorboard heat or radiators.   

Two-Unit System

A split system air conditioner sometimes referred to as a mini split system, consists of two separate parts. The outside unit contains a condenser/compressor that connects to the indoor unit through a small copper line, typically encased in plastic. The indoor unit consists of an air handler, evaporator coils, and a blower. For energy efficiency, homes that rely on split air conditioning systems may have multiple indoor units, making it easier to regulate temperature in different spaces of their homes.

How it Works

Split system air conditioning units are closed systems, working in a loop to cool air and evaporate the liquid found in humid summer air. The outside compressor applies pressure to the refrigerant in the lines connected to the indoor unit. This pressure cools the refrigerant and sends it through the lines to the indoor unit. The refrigerant is then used to cool the evaporator coils. Air from within the home is then pulled into the system. The air that passes through the system is cooled by the evaporator coils and pushed out into the home via the blower. The indoor unit has a thermostat that connects with the outdoor unit, telling it when the desired temperature has been reached.

Benefits

Ductless

Split system air conditioners are ductless, offering homes that are not equipped with duct-style heating to install air conditioning in their home. These systems also work well in spaces where ductwork has not been run, such as an attic or an unfinished basement.

Effective

Some may be concerned about the effectiveness of a mini split system, noting its size compared to the larger outdoor-only units. There is no need to worry, a typical split system air conditioner can sufficiently cool an average-sized house. These systems are more effective than a window or portable unit, which tend to cool a minimal amount of square footage and not an entire home.

Energy Efficient

With the ability to have multiple indoor units placed throughout the home, mini split systems allow homeowners to cool smaller spaces of their homes, reducing the energy used in comparison to cooling an entire home.

Split Air Conditioning Installation

Once installed, a split air conditioning unit is relatively easy to maintain. But the installation of this type of unit requires a professional installer familiar with ductless air conditioning installation. Let the team at ServiceMark help bring you the comfort you deserve. Our expert heating and cooling technicians are held to the highest standards. And, by completing more than 100 hours of training each year, you can rest assured knowing they are up to date on the latest technologies.
 

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When investing in a new hot water heater for your home, there are many options on the market. Should you go with a traditional water heater and constantly heat water, or is a tankless water heater a better option? We’ve compiled a list of the pros and cons of using tankless water heaters to help you decide which is best for you and your family.

Pros of a Tankless Water Heater

Save Money & Energy

Tankless water heaters save energy and save you money. Although traditional hot water heaters are insulted, this insulation does not prevent all heat loss. To provide on-demand hot water, a traditional hot water heater works to constantly heat the water in the tank. This constant heating can do a number on your energy bill and drive up your monthly cost. With a tankless water heater, you’ll have hot water, on-demand, without the added cost and energy use of a traditional hot water heater.

Longer Lifespan

Tankless water heaters are known to last much longer than the traditional hot water heater—up to two times longer, in fact. While a traditional water heater has a lifespan of 10-12 years, a tankless water heater can last up to 20. If you plan to stay in your home for the long haul, investing in a tankless water heater can save you from a costly replacement down the road.

Space

Space may be the most valuable reason to consider a tankless water heater. While traditional water tanks take up a lot of space with their 40-60-gallon tanks, tankless water heaters have a smaller profile. These heaters take up less than half the space of a traditional water heater, saving you precious space in your home.

Cons of a Tankless Water Heater

Water Output

With 40-60 gallons in reserve at all times, a traditional water heater has the capacity to function on a grander level, allowing multiple people use of hot water while showering, washing dishes, and running the washing machine all at the same time. With the smaller output of a tankless water heater, the capacity to run multiple heat flows at once is limited.  

Energy Requirement

Whether you choose an electric water heater or a gas water heater, you need to be aware of the immense output of energy needed upon starting a tankless water heater. Since a traditional water heater has reserves, it uses lower amounts of energy over time to heat its water. A tankless water heater requires a large amount of energy to begin producing the hot water needed. In some instances, you may need to choose electric over gas, or vice versa, for your tankless water heater depending on how much instantaneous energy is available through your gas or electric connection.

Cost

Although a tankless water heater will last you much longer, they do cost more upfront than a traditional water heater. Depending on which models you compare, tankless water heaters can cost anywhere from $200-300 more than a traditional water heater. But, with the added savings in your monthly energy bill, this additional cost may not affect your purchasing decision.

Whether you choose to go with a traditional or tankless water heater, ServiceMark can help. Our master plumbers receive more than 100 hours of technical training each year, so you can rest assured they are up-to-date on all the latest in residential system design and technology, helping you choose the best option for your space. Contact the ServiceMark team today!

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ServiceMark Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Now Part of Horizon Services

[King of Prussia, PA, August 2018] — Locally operated Horizon Services is excited to announce that the residential division of ServiceMark Heating, Cooling & Plumbing will integrate with Horizon Services’ teams in Pennsylvania and Delaware, while continuing to operate under the ServiceMark brand. With matched reputations for outstanding residential service, both teams look forward to sharing expertise for the benefit of their customers and fellow employees.
Founded in 1987, Horizon Services supports homeowners throughout Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania and New Jersey with outstanding comfort solutions and award-winning customer service. Horizon’s leadership team anticipates a host of new opportunities for expanded service and branding in its home marketplace.

ServiceMark’s long-standing reputation for excellence is rooted in its 65-year history of customer-focused care. Supported by a highly-trained team of technicians and customer service professionals, customers in residential markets trust ServiceMark to provide outstanding comfort solutions.

“We’re honored to have been selected to move ServiceMark’s residential division forward as a business and a brand,” says Dave Geiger, founder and CEO of Horizon Services. “Just like Horizon, their team has a wealth of knowledge and experience that will benefit customers of both brands.”

“We respect the reputation and drive of Horizon Services,” says Brian Nefferdorf, current Operations Manager of ServiceMark Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. “We’re thrilled to work with their team, and look forward to sharing best practices.”

A unique family legacy also reinforces this growing relationship. John Cameron Jr., Sales Manager for Horizon Services, first entered the industry as part of John H. Cameron & Sons, Inc. Cameron’s family business later became a part of the ServiceMark group. Says Cameron, “It’s a great feeling to reunite so many familiar faces. Each group offers unique insight and expertise. I look forward to more shared success.”

About Horizon Services

Locally operated Horizon Services is the award-winning cooling, heating and plumbing service trusted by customers throughout the region since 1987. Eight-time Lennox award winners for service and support, Horizon delivers exceptional comfort solutions that respect each customer’s home, time, and wallet. Find out more at Horizon Services.

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The home water heater is a non-issue UNTIL you get hit with that first icy shower in the morning, or see a giant puddle in the basement when you come home from work. Then you must think fast: repair or replace?

If it’s a conventional storage-tank water heater nearing the end of its 10 to 12-year average life-span, replacement is the obvious way to proceed. New models are up to 20% more efficient and can save up to $700 in energy costs over the projected life of the new unit. However, if your water heater is only a few years old, repair may be the way to go. Not sure whether to repair or replace?

Here’s how to decide:

How to Self-Diagnose Water Heater Problems

Conventional water heaters are simple. Cold water enters the tank and is heated by an electric element, a gas burner or an oil-fired burner. A thermostat regulates the temperature, in the tank, usually between 120 to 140 degrees. As the water heats, pressure builds inside the tank. When you turn on a tap, pressure sends hot water out of the faucet.

Because water heaters contain a few moving parts, only a few things can go wrong.

• The pilot light on gas water heater flickers out.
• Circuit breaker for electric heater trips.
• Burner or heating element fails.
• Thermostat breaks.
• Relief Valve sticks.

Repairing or replacing any of those parts is relatively inexpensive and a quality plumber can do the job for $150 to $500.  But if the tank is more than 10 years old, or if it’s leaking, a new water tank likely is in your future.

When Replacement is Your Only Option

Over time, water minerals react with steel, corroding water heater tanks from the inside out. When water heaters spring a leak, usually at the bottom of the tank, repair is no longer an option for you.

On the bright side, today’s modern water heaters are far more energy-efficient than older models. Manufacturers now inject foam insulation between the tank and its outer shell, resulting in higher heat retention. New glass liners make tanks less prone to corrosion. All of these changes do make the UNIT LARGER, so your HVAC contractor or plumber will have to carefully measure and size-up the space where the new unit will be placed.

You’ll pay up to $1,500 to purchase and install a standard new gas-fired or electric residential water heater. A high-efficiency model that meets Energy Star standards saves up to 20% in energy costs and may cost slightly more.

Tankless, Heat pump, and Solar Water Heaters offer even bigger savings! These products could cost three to five times more to buy and install, so consider payback carefully.
 

Maintain Your Water Heater

Whether you repair or replace, water heaters will perform better and last longer if you flush the tank once a year to remove sediment. This creates a bonus for you because, without all that gunk inside, your water heater will operate more efficiently, saving you money.

Also, check the anode rod — sometimes called the sacrificial rod — every three years. The anode rod, which is an aluminum or magnesium probe inside the tank, serves to collect corrosive elements and should be replaced when caked or eaten away. A new one costs about $30. The plumbers at ServiceMark Heating Cooling & Plumbing do strongly suggest that these maintenance functions be performed by a professional.

If you have any questions concerning your home’s water heating system or need pricing of repair versus replacement, simply call ServiceMark at 800-474-5200 and we will be happy to assist you.

The post How Do I Know When It’s Time for a Water Heater Replacement? appeared first on Service Mark Solutions.

HOMEOWNER STATED:

“I am the owner of a single- family house with a 15-year-old heat pump. Recently the unit stopped defrosting. I had a service technician come to inspect the unit. He said the electronic board that controls the defrost cycle is not working and must be replaced. The estimated cost is about $350. However, due to the advanced age of my heat pump, the service technician recommended replacing my entire unit — inside and outside.

How much is it to replace my system?

The cost of replacement is about $5,000 to $7000.

Generally speaking, I love my current heat pump. It is very reliable and very economical. I have extremely low monthly utility bills and the unit does a good job in winter and summer.

This leads me to my two questions:

1. Do heat pumps really need to be replaced at such an early age? Everyone I talk to seems to say heat pumps generally only last about 10 to 12 years. Anything more and you are on borrowed time. Everyone tells me that the service technician is right — replace the unit, don’t fix the part.

I don’t get why a heat pump should need complete replacement after only 10 to 12 years — in my case 15 years. It seems like you should be able to repair and fix the unit many times before you will ever match the cost of replacing it. I know many older furnaces would last for 30 plus years.

Our society seems to be a very “throw away” society these days.

2. Wouldn’t it be wise to invest money into repairing a heat pump, before replacing it?”

Do you feel that both units should be replaced as a “matching set”? Or can you just replace one unit at a time? My outside unit is the one with the problem. The inside unit is fine. Although it is even older than the outside unit — probably 20 plus years old. But once again, everyone seems to tell me the same thing — replace both units. I don’t seem to understand the logic behind replacing both units.”

ServiceMark is going to echo the advice of your service provider and the otherwise folks with whom you’ve consulted. I must tell you, however, that your 15-year-old compressor/condenser has done its job and doesn’t owe anybody anything. It has served you well but it’s time for it to go for a couple of reasons.

Sure, it seemed to you to work well and operate at a level that did not weaken your bank account, but all things are relative.

Let’s look at it in its 15-year time frame and compare it to what happens today.

In our experience, heat pumps have a reputation for lasting from 8 to 12 years. Some last longer, some less. That’s because they do double duty; both heating and cooling. Those furnaces (that you eye enviously) that last over 30 years are only working less than half the time the heat pump does — no A/C — so proportionately the heat pump’s right up with them. When I see a heat pump working well at the age of yours, I always say the good news is, it’s still working and bad news is, it’s still working. The older a heat pump is in today’s world the more electricity it will use to do its job.

There is a formula that is used in the industry to calculate the energy in against the heating and cooling that comes out of it. It’s called the SEER rating and stands for seasonal energy efficiency rating. You see them written on the sides of the newer units and they are numbers that hover around 10 and up. The SEER number indicates the amount of electricity that goes into the unit against the amount of heating or cooling capacity that comes out; the higher the number, the more efficient it is.

Your 15-year-old unit is probably 10 SEER or less. Since January 23, 2006, every unit sold in the U.S. has to be at least SEER 13. That’s efficient and to do that the heat pump engineers had to go to a different coolant and had to redesign the units – both inside and out. That’s why both have to be replaced.

Pouring money into your old unit is not economical in the short or the long run in view of the requirements. You could nurse your old soldier along with $350 here and $200 there for maybe a couple of years, but then the technician will come out, look at the unit and deliver the bad news, which is it’s shot and that’s all there is to it. Now, all the money you put into the older unit is money gone and you’re right at square one for the new unit.
 

We would be willing to bet you’ll be pleased!

Kudos to our friends at “On The Level,” Annapolis, MD. for sharing this important information.

Please call ServiceMark with all your HVAC questions and we’ll continue to provide the proper answers and guidance.  

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1. THEY OFFER HIGHLY FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS

Whereas traditional heat pumps and central air conditioning systems force cooled and heated air through ducts, ductless systems deliver air directly into different zones. They are comprised of a small outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that require nothing more than mounting capabilities and access to electricity.

Sometimes referred to as split systems, multi-split systems, or split-ductless systems, ductless cooling and heating offers home and business owners a cost-effective way to replace inefficient window units, space heaters, and electric baseboard heaters. They can be installed in home additions, new construction, condominiums, and apartments, or to improve temperature control in specific rooms. Ductless systems can even be fit for buildings that currently use ducted forced-air systems.

2. THEY SAVE YOU MONEY

One of the biggest reasons why homeowners switch to ductless cooling and heating is overall cost savings. In recent years, utility costs across the country have skyrocketed. When a home’s temperature depends upon an inefficient system, monthly bills can quickly climb out of control. Ductless systems operate on less power – they are smaller than traditional forced-air systems, and because the temperature-controlled air is delivered directly into a room, there is no loss in efficiency. Multi-split systems also allow homeowners to create “zones” in their home, which means they no longer have to cool or heat rooms that aren’t occupied.

In addition to saving money on utilities, homeowners may also be eligible for tax credits or utility rebates for the year they install a ductless system. There are many programs at the federal, state and local level that allow homeowners and businesses to take advantage of these additional savings.

3. THEY IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY – HAPPY BREATHING!

Often times, the quality of indoor air can actually be lower than the quality of outdoor air (source). With traditional HVAC systems, air ducts must be professionally cleaned on a regular basis, and even after cleaning, dust and allergens are left behind. Ductless systems, on the other hand, offer multi-stage filtration that can drastically reduce dust, bacteria, pollen, allergens and other particulates in the air.

4. THEY ARE QUICK AND EASY TO INSTALL

Installing a traditional, ducted system can take several weeks and disrupts daily activities in the home. Ductless systems are far less invasive to install, and depending upon the number of indoor and outdoor units required, can be up and running in as little as one day.

Multi-split systems run on small pipes that require a mere three-inch hole. That means homeowners don’t have to worry about rebuilding walls or ceilings around ductwork and there is no loss of precious square footage.

5. DUCTLESS COOLING LOWERS YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

The small size of a ductless cooling system and its zoning capabilities allows for greater energy efficiency. Ductless cooling and heating systems follow ENERGY STAR guidelines, which means they are far more energy efficient than the minimum standards set forth by the U.S. federal government. Improved efficiency saves money, of course, but it also helps reduce your total carbon output.

Additionally, ductless systems take advantage of advances in chemistry to reduce effects on the environment. Ductless systems use a refrigerant called R410A, which is known for its zero ozone depletion potential. This means the system will have less impact on the environment throughout its lifecycle.

Ductless cooling and heating systems are energy efficient, environmentally friendly and completely customizable. They offer homeowners the ability to cool and heat specific zones of their home to the exact temperature they desire, providing consistent and exceptional year-round comfort.

This article was written by Mitsubishi Electric US Inc., Cooling & Heating Division.

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Now that we’re enjoying the Spring weather, it’s time to think about the little things we can do ourselves to protect our homes.

A short list of home maintenance projects a homeowner can do easily:

1. All ceiling fans should be reset to turn COUNTER CLOCKWISE, as you look up at them. This action should help you even out the room temperature and help the heavier cold airlift up from the floor and spread throughout the room.
2. Replace or clean your dryer vent. Lint tends to build up over time making it harder for the dryer to operate and a large buildup of lint can prove to be dangerous in that it is combustible and could ignite under certain circumstances.
3. Clean the siding of your home especially on the NORTH SIDE where the green algae film will start to form.
4. If you are able to safely inspect your chimney, now’s the time to look for and repair cracks in the mortar. This “tuckpointing” prolongs the brick life and protects the chimney structure.
5. Replace your HVAC air filter and make sure the ARROW is pointed toward the direction of the air flow. If it’s been a year since you had professional service, now would be time to check out and tune up your air conditioning, or heat pump system and get it ready for the coming season. Secure an appointment by scheduling online or calling!
6. This time of year tends to have more rain, so it’s time to clean gutters and downspouts to make sure all water is directed away from the home.
7. Why not use this time of year to automatically change the batteries in all the smoke and CO2 detectors? Test each unit to make they are in good working order.
8. Where necessary, we advise some re-caulking and re-painting around windows and doors where the paint is starting to peel, and the caulking is dry and breaking down.
9. Pull that refrigerator out and away from the wall and vacuum behind it. You might be surprised what long lost item could be hiding there!

The HVAC experts at ServiceMark Heating Cooling & Plumbing are homeowners too, so we fully realize how much time and effort is put into home maintenance. We advise calling an expert when needed for roofing repair or proper HVAC maintenance to ensure you do not bite off more than you can handle. After all, you deserve some down time too!

HVAC problems? Pick up the phone and call us – we are ready to keep you comfortable 24/7.

The post Popular and Easy to do Home Maintenance Tips for the Spring appeared first on Service Mark Solutions.

After this year’s long, dark and unpredictable winter, spring’s bright sun and warm winds are a breath of fresh air. The only downside? All that sunshine spotlights your leaf-filled gutters, cracked sidewalks and the dead plants in last year’s flower beds. Dwight Barnett, a certified master inspector with the American Society of Home Inspectors, shared this checklist to help you target the areas that need maintenance so that you can get things done quickly and safely and get out to enjoy the warmer weather.

Examine Roof Shingles

Examine roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during winter. If your home has an older roof covering, you may want to start a budget for replacement. The summer sun can really damage roof shingles. Shingles that are cracked, buckled or loose or are missing granules need to be replaced. Flashing around plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys need to be checked and repaired by a qualified roofer.

Probe the Wood Trim

Use a screwdriver to probe the wood trim around windows, doors, railings and decks. Make repairs now before the spring rains do more damage to the exposed wood.

Check the Gutters

Check for loose or leaky gutters. Improper drainage can lead to water in the basement or crawl space. Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear and free of debris.

Use Compacted Soil

Low areas in the yard or next to the foundation should be filled with compacted soil. Spring rains can cause yard flooding, which can lead to foundation flooding and damage. Also, when water pools in these low areas in summer, it creates a breeding ground for insects.

Examine the Chimney

Examine the exterior of the chimney for signs of damage. Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.

Inspect the Concrete

Inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement. All exterior slabs except pool decks should drain away from the home’s foundation. Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. When weather permits, power-wash and then seal the concrete.

Move Firewood

Remove firewood stored near the home. Firewood should be stored at least 18 inches off the ground at least 2 feet from the structure.

Check Outside Faucets

Check outside hose faucets for freeze damage. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, it is likely the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be replaced. While you’re at it, check the garden hose for dry rot.

Service the AC Unit

Have a qualified heating and cooling contractor clean and service the outside and inside equipment associated with the home’s air conditioning or heat pump system. Clean coils operate more efficiently, and an annual service call will keep the system working at peak performance levels. Change interior filters on a regular basis. And remember to cut away weeds or shrubbery that could inhibit air discharge and keep the area open.

Check Power Equipment

Check your gas and battery-powered lawn equipment to make sure it is ready for summer use. Clean equipment and sharp cutting blades will make yard work easier.

ServiceMark would like to thank both Dwight Barnett and HGTV for helping us to share this Spring Home Maintenance Guide with you. Some of these points should require a professional to evaluate and perform services if needed. We strongly caution NOT going up on your roof or trying to service an air conditioning system yourself. There are many reputable roofing firms to help you and ServiceMark employs ONLY NATE CERTIFIED technicians trained to help you prolong the life of your home’s HVAC system and keep it operating at peak efficiency which helps reduce monthly utility expenses.

Please do not hesitate to call with any questions or good ideas and additions to these recommendations and know that all your friends at ServiceMark breathe a collective sigh of relief that real Spring weather is on the horizon.

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