5 Must-Have Activities on Your Spring Cleaning Checklist

There are multiple aspects of your home that should be checked each year during spring cleaning. For example, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors, and smoke detectors should be checked and sometimes replaced. Failing to inspect or replace these items can be a disaster waiting to happen, so it is vital to include this activity on your spring cleaning checklist. It is also important to check some of these items for product recalls. The following tips can help you get an idea of what you should be looking for and when you may need to replace common household items.

1. Check your smoke detectors: The U.S. Fire Administration recommends testing your smoke detectors once per month and changing the batteries twice per year. There are different types of smoke detectors, so always check your manufacturer’s instructions before making any repairs.
2. Inspect carbon monoxide detectors: If your home uses fuel-burning appliances, it should be outfitted with several carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide is an invisible and odorless gas that can kill you within minutes. The National Fire Protection Association recommends installing detectors on each floor of your home and within 15 feet of fuel-burning appliances to reduce the chances of false alarms. You should ensure these alarms are clear of dust and debris. Replace batteries or ensure the detectors are plugged into wall sockets.
3. Inspect fire extinguishers: Depending on the size of your home, you may need more than one fire extinguisher. However, fire extinguishers can expire or break down from wear and tear. They must be checked regularly to ensure they are not past the expiration date. Inspect the pressure gauges and look for rips and tears in the hose and nozzle. The needle on the pressure gauge should be in the green area.
4. Replace first aid kit items: Every home needs a first aid kit. Unfortunately, items in this kit can expire and need to be periodically replaced. You should also check for items that may be missing from the first aid kit. Any excess or expired medications should be tossed.
5. Switch out dirty air filters: Check and replace your air filters while doing your spring cleaning. Dirty air filters can become clogged with allergens and other particles that may be harmful to your health. It can also lower the spike in blood pressure you may experience after seeing your first electricity bill during the summer months.

Should You Check These Household Items for Product Recalls?

Always be on the lookout for recalls on some of these products. For example, manufacturing defects can render smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors useless. Last year, Kidde recalled its combination smoke/carbon monoxide alarms over a defect that kept the device from working. Check the manufacturer name and model, then plug it into the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website.