My SD Moms 
(StatePoint) Running a home can be a full-time job. Unfortunately, many of us don’t have that kind of time. This new year, resolve to check off all the items on your to-do list without working harder. You can accomplish this by finding smarter solutions to maintain your home efficiently.
Pest Control
When it comes to pest control, a false sense of security during the cooler months can get you in trouble, as all homes are susceptible to pest invasion year-round.
The experts at Terminix say the best way to prevent rodents from entering your home is by sealing holes and cracks outside your home. Install a good, thick weatherstrip on the bottom of all doors. Be sure the door from the garage is sealed extra tight.
If you’re using firewood indoors, never bring more inside than you need at one time. Firewood can harbor insects like beetles, spiders, ladybugs, ants, cockroaches and centipedes.
It’s important to have a professional periodically inspect for signs of pests and take preventative control measures.
System Maintenance
Creating monthly and annual maintenance schedules for your home’s major systems and appliances can save you time and money later, according to the experts at American Home Shield.
Start by adding these tasks to your monthly calendar: clean the dishwasher drains to prevent clogs and breakdowns, flush the garbage disposal with water and baking soda to prevent odor and grime, and change the filters for your air conditioner and heating system to improve air quality.
Annual maintenance should include checking your washer’s hoses for leaks, cleaning the lint from your dryer ductwork, caulking leaks around windows and doors, and having your heating and cooling systems professionally serviced.
Look into home warranty plans with a broad network of professional service contractors and the ability to place service requests 24/7. A home warranty provides coverage for breakdowns of home system components, such as HVAC and plumbing, and also major appliances.
Deep Clean
Keeping your rooms clean can make a house a livable, comfortable home. Prevent clutter with organizational tools like baskets, shoe racks and coat hangers.
To avoid extra mopping, consider asking guests to remove their shoes before walking through your home. Such measures may save you from spot cleaning, but nothing can save you from the task of home cleaning in the long term. For a thorough, deep clean and to ensure small details aren’t overlooked, consider using a professional cleaning service.
Tough Jobs
No other item in your home can affect the appearance of your home like carpeting. Schedule a carpet cleaning for a fresh start to the year, and have the carpets cleaned every six to twelve months. Likewise, a trained technician can ensure proper care of surfaces like hardwood floors, tile and grout and also upholstered furniture.
Without adding too much work to your already busy schedule, you can resolve to give your home the care it deserves. For more information on professional brands that can help, visit www.servicemaster.com.
