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Solar water heaters are a cost-efficient way to generate hot water for your home.  Almost any climate is compatible with these heaters . . . all you need is the sun!  The systems usually include a storage tank and solar collectors.  Give Atlantic Solar a call at 540-577-4249 for more information on how these systems can help you save money!

JUNE

April showers can lead to water issues.  You can use the month of June to stay on top of some common concerns.

• Check your home’s fascia and trim for decay. These areas can become weathered and could lead to water damage.

• Is there any evidence of leakage around your water heater?  If so, or any rust is present, it’s time for a new water heater.  Give PM Contractors a call - it will be done in a jiffy!

• Make sure that all family members know where the shutoff valves are for the plumbing.  All valves should be tested to see if they are in working order.

• Watering your lawn is important, but remember to be careful with the sprinklers.  Keep the water spray away from the walls and foundation of the house.

• Check the function of the sump pump. If you don’t already have a back-up, add a battery-operated pump as plan B.

• Look in your attic for water stains after heavy spring storms.

• Check your yard for any holes or containers that might hold water.  As June begins to warm up, the mosquitoes could become a problem.  Decrease that risk by filling the holes and keeping birdbaths clean and filled with fresh water.

• Practice an emergency/weather drill with your family.  A little practice and preparation goes a long way!

GREEN Tip for the month:

Solar water heaters are a cost-efficient way to generate hot water for your home.  Almost any climate is compatible with these heaters . . . all you need is the sun!  The systems usually include a storage tank and solar collectors.  Give Atlantic Solar a call at 540-577-4249 for more information on how these systems can help you save money!

MAY

So you’ve inspected the property . . . and found a few things to fix!
May is a great time to make a few repairs and to prep your home for the summer heat.

• Check the deck, railings, porch and fencing for rotting wood.  Spring is a wonderful time to re-paint the fence or seal the deck if needed.  And they’ll be protected from the summer’s extreme heat!

• Clean the gutters and downspouts and make sure that they are attached and sloping appropriately.

• Review your property for any tree limbs that are close or are touching utility lines.  If you find this situation, call a professional tree technician or your local utility company to trim those limbs.  This will prevent any possible electrical hazards.

• Remove dead branches that could fall on your home during a summer storm and clean up any debris that lying around your property.

• Make a plan for your plants, flowers and seedlings based on the shade/sun exposure for your yard and house.  Plants can be an inexpensive way to spruce up and personalize your home.

• If your lawn is spotty, spring is the time to seed and sod.  Be careful to water these areas properly to make the most of your hard work!

• Repair any torn screens so that your home will be insect-free and you can enjoy the summer breezes.

• Inspect and clean dust from the covers of your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

• Replace old extension cords that could become fire hazards.

• Pool equipment and the concrete around the pool should be inspected.  Memorial Day is right around the corner!

GREEN Tip for the month:

Looking at ways to save energy?  Aren’t we all!  How about trying to line dry your clothes?  This allows you to tap into the most natural energies available:  the wind and the sun.  Clothes dryers are not energy-efficient, so put up a clothesline.  You can do this almost anywhere, and you’ll be surprised at the savings you’ll see reflected in your energy bills!

Looking at ways to save energy?  Aren’t we all!  How about trying to line dry your clothes?  This allows you to tap into the most natural energies available:  the wind and the sun.  Clothes dryers are not energy-efficient, so put up a clothesline.  You can do this almost anywhere, and you’ll be surprised at the savings you’ll see reflected in your energy bills!

It is springtime, and everyone is getting ready for summer.  Whether you are saving for a family vacation, trying to get in shape for the beach or enjoying a child’s baseball game, it’s a busy time of year for all!  But don’t neglect some important maintenance tips from PM Contractors that could save your home and your wallet in the long run.

APRIL

April is the perfect month to take a look at your home and property to make sure everything is in proper working order.   Winter can take its toll so it’s important to look for small problems that could become bigger issues if left unfixed.

Check the electrical system:

• • Inspect the main electrical panel.  Any signs of burn marks, loose connections or damaged insulation should be reviewed by a qualified electrician.  PM Contractors can help you!
  • Always have at least one fire extinguisher on hand.  Make sure it is ready to be used!
  • Old or worn receptacles should be replaced and it’s time again to test your GFCI outlets again!  Be sure to test these once a month.
  • Make sure your electric appliances are connected to appropriate power surge protectors.
  • Ensure that all light bulbs in the house are the correct wattage for each fixture.
  • Install safety covers to help protect children from shock.

• Test your air conditioning system. You don’t want to wait until it is 95º and there’s not a repairman available.   Have PM Contractors inspect and maintain your system as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Check for roof damage.  Look for missing, loose or curling shingles.  Replace the shingles if it’s just a small spot of damage.  If more than 20% of your roof has shingle problems, it’s time to re-roof!
• Make sure that water is draining away from your home’s foundation.  If water is pooling near the house, your basement could be at risk for water and/or mold.
• Check your foundation any sign of termites and/or damaged wood.
• Take a look at your driveway.  Does it have cracks or is it uneven?  If so, then it’s time to repair the concrete or fill in gravel holes.

GREEN Tip for the month:
April is a great month to plant a garden.  Why not try organic gardening?  It’s not expensive, in fact, it should be less expensive.  Creating good, nutrient-rich soil is a great way to have healthy, viable plants.  Check out composting and the benefits of it to your garden and the planet!