While it seems like winter has just arrived in Atlanta, it’s never too early to begin thinking about spring maintenance for your home. While this annual chore is typically not an exciting or fun task, it’s necessary to keep your home running smoothly and efficiently throughout the year. Making a plan now to tackle these items both inside and outside of your home will allow you to get them over and done with in a short amount of time.

Warm weather can bring a variety of pests with it, from termites and ants to bees and roaches, who are looking for water or relief from the heat. Ensure that all of your doors and windows are sealed properly, as well as along baseboards, around pipes and behind sinks. Double check any window or door screens to ensure they don’t have any holes or tears that may allow small pests to make their way inside as well. Also, inspect the exterior of your home for any cracks or holes that may need to be sealed or filled. Pay close attention to where any utility lines or other items may enter your house from outside.

In addition to checking for normal pests that may find their way inside your home, you should also be on the lookout for termites. While they’re harder to spot, they can wreak havoc on your home. Check for evidence such as brown tunnels in the ground near the home’s foundation or sagging floors and ceilings.

Plan to have your air conditioning unit serviced before you think you’ll use it for the first time. Be sure to change your filter at least every three months while the unit is being used. Not only will this limit dust and potential allergens in your home, but it will help your system to run more efficiently, which will save you money on your electricity bills.

Windows are an important item to inspect before warmer months. Ensure that they’re in good, working condition by checking that they work properly, they fit tightly and that the weather stripping hasn’t torn or cracked. Eliminating any places that air may leak into our out of your home will help to reduce your energy bills.

Inspect the exterior of your home for any places that may need new glazing compound, caulking or painting.

Be sure to check your roof for any winter storm damage that may have been caused by ice, snow, large branches or other items. While you’re inspecting your roof, be sure to clean out your gutters and ensure that they’re free of debris.

While these tasks may not seem like top priority on your weekends off, it’s important to remember that they can save you money and stress in the long run.