By SCANA Energy

Spring has sprung, and that means it’s time for you to prepare your home for the warmer months ahead. We’re making it easy for you to complete the most essential spring to-dos so you can relax and enjoy the season. Here’s a list of spring chores to help keep your home in good shape and save money too.

1 - Clean your gutters

Even if you gave your gutters a thorough cleaning back in the fall, winter weather can cause debris to build up again. Now’s the time for another deep cleaning to protect your roof (and your home) from water damage and unwanted pests who can live and breed in clogged gutters.

2 - Inspect your roof

Check to ensure that your roof hasn’t experienced any water damage from winter weather and look for any missing or broken shingles. Be sure to note any moss or lichen on the roof, as this could indicate damage below the surface. If you don’t feel comfortable using a ladder to get a closer look, don’t worry. You can grab a pair of binoculars to see if anything is in need of repair.

3 - Drain your water heater

Eliminate buildup in your natural gas water heater tank by draining the sediment. This will not only save you money on energy, but it will also help your water heater last longer. Here’s how:

• Make a note of your water heater’s current temperature and turn the thermostat to the lowest or “Pilot” setting. Allow the water heater to cool down for 20 to 30 minutes.

• Turn on the hot water in a sink or bathtub to prevent water from being trapped in your pipes.

• Attach a garden hose to the drain at the base of your water heater and place the end of the hose in a bucket.

• Open the drain and allow the water to flow out, continuing the process until you don’t see any sediment in the water.

• Once the water is clear, turn the drain off, remove the hose and turn the water supply back on before relighting the pilot light.

• Turn off the hot water spigot in the sink or bathtub and test the water after 20 minutes to ensure the water heater is working.

4 - Replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries

It’s important to keep your home safe year-round, but spring is a great time to check and replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. It’s a simple task that plays a critical role in keeping your family safe.

5 - Get your grill ready

Spring is also the start of peak grilling season. Get your grill ready ahead of schedule by removing grime from the burner holes with a needle. You can then spray the grates with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water to wash away the remnants of last summer’s barbecues.

6 - Change your HVAC filters

Before you know it, you’ll be turning on your air conditioner to beat the summer heat. Take the time now to change the filters. It’ll save energy and improve the air quality in your home.

7 - Clean your gas appliances

Spring is a time for starting fresh, and that means cleaning your gas appliances. Tasks like removing the lint from your dryer and cleaning your oven and range can translate to a lower gas bill. Even if you clean your dryer’s lint trap after each use (which is highly recommended), additional lint can build up in the dryer’s vent. A clear vent helps your clothing dry more quickly and reduces the risk of fire.

Follow the tips above and you’ll be on the path to lower bills and a cleaner, safer home. For more tips on keeping a safe and happy home, visit SCANA's website.