Home Maintenance Myth # 10 - Dishwasher Cleans Itself

 

Your Dishwasher Cleans Itself

It may seem like your dishwasher is self-cleaning, but that isn't the case. To keep it running well and smelling fresh, you should periodically clean the dishwasher.

Remove any debris from the tub and filter to make sure it drains properly. Then place a couple of cups of vinegar in a clean bowl near the center of the bottom rack and run the dishwasher on a normal cycle without detergent. This will help sanitize and deodorize the washer. If your dishwasher still has a funky smell, it might be time to clean out your filter. 

Home Maintenance Myth # 9 - Add Pool Chemicals Anytime

 

It Doesn't Matter What Time of Day You Add Chemicals to your Pool

If taking care of a pool is part of your home maintenance, be sure to add chemicals after the sun goes down. That's because adding chemicals when the sun is strongest can result in UV rays reducing the effectiveness of certain chemicals, especially chlorine.

Home Maintenance Myth # 8 - Replace Furnace Filters Once A Year

You Only Need to Replace Furnace Filters Once a Season

You may think you can save money on furnace filters by replacing them just once a season, but actually your filter should be replaced more often.

"If you live in a dry, dusty environment, chances are you'll need to replace them about once a month," according to National Property Inspectors. "If you live in an area that's more humid and features lush landscaping, you'll be able to get away with replacement every three months or so."

Pro tip: If you can't see a light shining through your furnace filter, it's time to replace it.

Home Maintenance Myth # 7 - Bathroom Fan is Maintenance Free

 

The Bathroom Exhaust Fan is Maintenance-Free

If cleaning out the bathroom exhaust fan isn't one of your regular home maintenance tasks, add it to the list.

First Quality Roofing and Insulation notes mold and mildew can form in the fan. In addition, dust will build up over time and cover the motor. So make sure to clean and vacuum the fan cover and mechanical parts every six to 12 months.

Home Maintenance Myth # 6 - Carpet Feels Dry, It's Safe

 

If Your Carpet Feels Dry, It's Safe 

The bad news is, even if your carpet feels dry after a water incident, that doesn't mean it's completely dry.

That's because standing water can seep beyond the carpet and underlay, and into the sub-floor. Mold can grow in wood and concrete sub-floor environments, and letting it linger can lead to serious and expensive issues.

Home Maintenance Myth # 5 - Press Button To Test Smoke Alarm

 

The Test Button is the Best Way to Check Your Smoke Alarm

By pressing the test button on your home's smoke alarm, what you're really doing is testing whether the sound is functioning properly, according to Security First Insurance.

Instead, to properly test your smoke alarm, place a newly burned out match under the device. The smoke should cause the alarm to sound. Experts suggest you test your smoke alarm at least once in the spring and once in the fall. 

Home Maintenance Myth # 4 - More Insulation is Better

 

More Insulation is Better

Adding insulation is a home maintenance task many homeowners will tackle at some point. However, more isn't always better.

"While you want enough insulation to prevent heat escaping into the attic, going overboard can actually cause problems," according to National Property Inspectors. "For instance, overloading your attic with insulation can cause the lower layers to compress, which diminishes its effectiveness. You can also end up blocking your eave or soffit ventilation, leading to heat or moisture buildup and mold problems." 

Home Maintenance Myth # 3 - Only Clean Gutters In Fall

 

Gutters Only Need to be Cleaned in the Fall

If you think you only need to clean your gutters in the fall, think again. Gutters can get clogged with debris any time of year. That prevents them from directing the flow of rainwater away from your home, risking damage to your home's interior and exterior.

"Clogged gutters can also become attractive homes to insects, rodents and mold," according to Las Vegas-based First Quality Roofing and Insulation. "That's why it's a good idea to have your gutters cleaned in both the summer and fall."

Home Maintenance Myth # 2 - Turn Off AC When You're Not Home

 

Save Energy by Turning Off the Air Conditioner When You're Not Home

You may think you're saving on energy costs if you turn the AC off when you leave the house in the morning, but this isn't the best way to save money.

According to National Property Inspectors, "When you come back home and turn your system back on, your AC unit will have to work overtime to cool your house back down, negating any energy savings you've accrued."

Instead, just adjust your thermostat five to 10 degrees warmer when you leave home.

Happy 4th of July From Team Hoffmann

 

60 Best Fourth of July Recipes to Please Any Crowd

From main courses on the grill to bright side dishes showcasing seasonal ingredients.

Whether you’re hosting a 4th of July party this year, bringing a dish to a festive potluck, or simply serving up your family's favorite grilling recipes, July 4th recipes are a major part of celebrating Independence Day. To help you plan your July 4th menu, we've rounded up the best recipes for some of the most popular 4th of July foods, including barbecue staples such as hamburgers, hot dogs, apple pie, and lemonade. After all, it wouldn’t be America’s birthday without them. In addition to traditional American fare, we’ve also included ideas for easy 4th of July appetizers, kid-friendly recipes, festive desserts, and patriotic drinks.

Regardless of how large or small your gathering, the kitchen equipment available, and how much time you want to spend prepping, you can easily plan a festive meal around your 4th of July activities. Our suggestion: a light picnic lunch before lounging by the pool, a grilled dinner eaten on outdoor furniture, and a late night bonfire while toasting marshmallows under the fireworks. If that’s not an ideal summer day, we’re not sure what is. For the moments in between, we suggest selecting a few dip recipes, stocking up on chips, and serving cool summer drinks to keep you satisfied and refreshed as you run around with the kids under the sun. Click Here for more...