The National Fire Protection Association recommends installing smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.  If you home is new, it likely already has them in each recommended location, if not, it is a small expense and effort for maximum protection.Maintaining smoke detectors is as important as installing them. Vacuum the alarm to remove dust. Change batteries unless you have the long-life variety. Replace smoke alarms every decade as they have a 30-percent failure rate at that time per the National Fire Protection Association.

Keep a record of installation and maintenance. Additionally, smoke alarms, sprinklers and extinguishers can help protect you and your home.

You should review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy annually. If you rent, your landlord’s insurance only covers the structure of the building, not your personal belongings. Therefore, ensure your valuables are protected from fire damage.

3. Check or add Carbon Monoxide detectors

Carbon monoxide is a threat to your home that you cannot see, smell or taste, thus nicknamed the “Silent Killer.”

Although carbon monoxide detectors are designed to be maintenance-free, dust, dirt and other foreign matters can accumulate inside the device’s sensing elements and change its sensitivity. Always follow the manufacturer’s specific recommended practices for maintenance and testing, and ensure it is equipped with an end-of-life alarm.

Test the carbon monoxide detector at least once a month by pushing the “test” button on the device….at the same time you test your smoke detector.

 

4. Clean and Seal Countertops

For your granite, marble and natural stone countertops to maintain their luster and resist stains, they require maintenance. Professionals generally advise sealing darker product surfaces once a year since they are very dense and stains are nearly invisible.

Lighter surfaces require more attention and should be sealed every three to six months, depending on frequency of use.

It is important to clean any spills from liquids quickly as possible to avoid having them penetrate the surface.

Consult your local home improvement store specialist for recommendations on products to use.

 

5. Deep Clean your Refrigerator

There appears to be a “National Day” for everything, and November 15 is National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day.

Start by throwing out the ice and cleaning the ice tray. Many refrigerators have water and air filters that should be changed at least every six months. If those filters are neglected, you’ll end up with contaminated drinking water.

When you choose to clean the refrigerator, don’t neglect the outside of it — especially the cooling coils. Pull out the refrigerator and vacuum and mop the area.

 

6. Dishwasher

Yes, even the dishwasher needs maintenance. Take out the racks and clean them, ensuring that no food is stuck. Clear any debris around the spinner, gasket and holes, and then clean them thoroughly.  Many newer models require the addition of salt for softening the water and better drying.

Scrub clean the base and the edges, and bleach any areas that display mildew or mold. Your dishwasher may have a filter and should be cleaned every three to six months depending on usage, but refer to your specific model’s owner’s manual for guidance to ensure performance is not affected.

Consider one of the products that work using the dishwasher wash cycle.

 

7. Deep Clean your Stove, Oven and Range