by Kym Byrnes
The ringing in of the new year is a good time to make a list of things around the home, in the home, and for your body that need to be checked or updated. Don’t put it off. A little bit of maintenance can go a long way in preventing emergencies.
Personal Health
There are dozens of checks and tests to get each year based on your sex, age and health history. Start the new year with a checklist of health tests you should have in 2019, including blood pressure and blood sugar levels, prostate exam, mammogram, colonoscopy, Pap smear and so on. Not sure what tests and checks you should have this year? Schedule a check-up with your primary care physician, who can help create your health checklist.
Chimney Sweep and Inspection
Creosote builds up after use, so be sure to get your chimney cleaned and inspected. The inspection will also ensure the chimney itself is structurally sound.
Furnace Filters
Change or clean furnace filters for better heating and improved air quality.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Change batteries in smoke and CO detectors.
Septic System Maintenance
Did you know that you have to maintain your septic system? There’s usually not a problem — until there’s a really big problem. But schedule a septic flush as necessary. If you haven’t maintained your system, you may want to schedule a consultation with a local septic company and learn what needs to be done on a regular basis to keep your septic system healthy and functioning.