My friend Ron Bruno (Boro Home & Building Inspections) reminded me that it's spring season, THE BEST time to do some deep cleaning and home maintenance. There are physical and emotional benefits to cleaning and maintaining your home.
  
Spring Indoor Maintenance Checklist:
 
* Deep cleaning: Many people experience allergy symptoms in the springtime. Cleaning your house removes excess dust, pollen, and other allergens from the house.
 
* Declutter: Spring is an excellent time to get rid of items no longer needed. Consider donating or selling unused items at a yard sale.
 
* Clean windows: Clean the glass and screens, and clean the window channels with a brush or vacuum to enable them to open and close more easily.
 
* Dust the ceiling fans: Dust off all fan blades and fan housing.
 
* Air out furniture cushions, pillows and linens. If you don’t have allergies to pollen, grass, etc., these items can be placed outside and hung on a clothesline on a warm day.
 
* Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace any detectors that are ten years old or older.
 
* Change HVAC air filters. Changing filters every 30 to 60 days is recommended.
 
* Attic: Inspect the attic for signs of potential mold and moisture issues (gray or black stains on the wood framing). Make sure you have adequate ventilation and insulation to avoid problems that may develop in the warmer months ahead.
 
* Basement: Check for signs of insects and moisture. You may need to operate a dehumidifier in the warmer months.
 

* Performing spring home maintenance will help ensure your home is a safe and efficient place to live. A well-maintained house can lead to a higher resale value if you decide to sell your home in the future.