Spring Home Maintenance Plan (March-May)
Spring along the Wasatch Front means snowmelt, the first warm days, and bringing outdoor systems back online. Two tasks a month keeps it manageable.
March: Wake Up the House
1. Flush the water heater.
Why: Utah's hard water leaves mineral sediment that cuts efficiency and shortens the tank's life.
DIY: Turn off the power (or set gas to pilot), attach a hose to the drain valve, and flush until the water runs clear.
Call a pro: A plumber can flush it and check the anode rod.
2. Clean the dryer vent.
Why: Lint buildup is a fire risk.
DIY: Unplug the dryer, pull off the vent hose, vacuum it out, and clear the outside vent flap.
Call a pro: A dryer-vent service for long or rooftop runs.
April: Cooling Prep & Exterior
1. Tune up the AC or swamp cooler.
Why: Service it before the first heat wave, not during July's rush.
DIY: Replace the air filter, clear debris from the outdoor unit, and test it on a warm day. For a swamp cooler, replace the pads and check the water line and pump.
Call a pro: An HVAC technician.
2. Check the outside of the house after winter.
Why: Repeated freezing and thawing cracks caulk, concrete and siding.
DIY: Walk the house looking for cracked caulk, loose siding and damaged gutters, then power wash the siding and driveway.
Call a pro: A handyman.
May: Outdoor Systems
1. Start up the sprinklers.
Why: Lines and backflow valves can crack over winter.
DIY: Open the main valve slowly, run each zone, look for broken heads or soggy spots, and set a schedule that follows your city's watering guidelines.
Call a pro: A sprinkler company, especially for a cracked backflow valve.
2. Clean windows and screens.
Why: More light and airflow.
DIY: Wash the screens, clean the glass, and patch any torn screens.
Call a pro: A window cleaner for second stories.