April is transition time. Basketball gives way to baseball, greenery starts to wake up, and longer days draw our attention to the great outdoors. In Colorado, it also means it can be 80° one day and snowing the next. So while you’re planning for outdoor living to come, don’t overlook winter’s last gasps. Here are some things to consider.
Keep Your Generator in Good Shape
Spring snowstorms are heavy and wet, bringing down branches and power lines. If you have a gasoline-powered backup generator, make sure it’s still ready to go and you have plenty of fuel on hand. If you don’t need it, it’ll be there for your lawnmower (or snowblower).
Click here for generator maintenance tips.
Schedule Tree and Shrub Service
Walk around your property and check for weak or overhanging tree limbs and other damage that creates hazards for power lines and property. Don’t try to trim branches close to power lines yourself. A professional tree service has the tools and experience to handle it safely.
Maintain Your HVAC System
Forced air heating and central air usually use the same duct work and filtration system, so clean or replace air filters as needed and make sure your AC is ready for the cooling season to come.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts can clog with debris and may have been damaged by ice and snow over the winter. Be sure they’re intact and flowing well. Blocked gutters can ruin a roof and soffits and leaky downspouts can cause drainage problems resulting in foundation damage. Waterlogged soils can drown foundation plantings and cause shock hazards around outdoor outlets and fixtures, too.
Start Scheduling Outdoor Projects
Get a head start on outdoor improvements before contractors are jammed up with requests. Outdoor living and kitchen spaces involve planning, especially if electrical or plumbing is involved. Early spring is the time to install underground plumbing and electrical before you start planting gardens and beds. Be sure to mark where the lines are so you don’t damage them when digging.
Get Pros Involved
Electrical and plumbing work are jobs best left to licensed professionals. Consult with them early in the planning and design stage to avoid unpleasant surprises and unnecessary expenses. The same goes for major tree and landscaping projects. A little upfront investment in expertise can save major headaches down the road.
Remodeling, renovations, and additions need top-notch electrical work, and Allstar Electrical Services delivers the quality results you expect and deserve. We work hand-in-hand with contractors to ensure your new project is done right, on budget and on schedule.
Whatever your electrical needs, call Allstar Electrical at (303) 399-7420 or visit our website. Then use our handy on-line forms to request an estimate or set up an appointment. We’ve served the Front Range for over 15 years and are top-rated by the BBB and Angie’s List.