Brian Sells Chicago · Home Danger Zones Review

Over the past 10 posts I’ve shared with you some ways to help keep your home safer. If you missed any you can check them out at these links: Cooktops Dryers Washing Machines Pipes Smoke Detectors Fireplaces Electrical Wiring Roofs Gutters Or are there others you think I missed? Let us know in the comments! Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1Dkhgly

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Move In Ready Starter Home – Carpentersville

http://ift.tt/1rlTcOf 439 Maple Avenue Carpentersville, IL 60110 MLS#: 08792094 Price: $159,977 House Type: Raised Ranch Bedrooms: 3 Full Bathrooms: 2 Half Bathrooms: 0 If you’re looking to start the New Year actually living in your new home and not working on it, you’re in the right place. All the work has been done for you! In the past four years, owners have upgraded to Energy Star Windows, installed a New Furnace, updated the Walkway, Retaining Wall, and Drainage, as well as UPGRADED the Kitchen and Both Bathrooms. New coil is in place if you want to add central air – very easy! The information being provided is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All information must be verified by the purchaser. Listing information courtesy of: RE/MAX AT HOME The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity program of Midwest Real Estate Data LLC. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than RE/MAX Northern Illinois are marked

from bitly http://bit.ly/1JH03qf

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Gutters

In the fall and winter months, gutters have the tendency to become clogged and backed up by rogue leaves and debris. When gutters become clogged, they can overflow, which allows water to pool around home foundations, potentially leading to basement leaks or water underneath the house. If you live in an area with lots of trees, clean gutters regularly during the fall months to help prevent clogs and potential problems, and clean them again in the spring. The gutter in this picture looks pretty clean compared to what mine are usually like. Can anyone recommend a reliable gutter cleaning service? Please let us know in the comments. Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1uxHegr

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Roofs

Roofs are known for providing excellent space for snow and ice buildup. A roof that is too warm will cause snow to melt. When this happens, runoff freezes in gutters, which forms into ice, creating a dam that forces water below the shingles. To help prevent issues, make sure your roof is properly insulated by adding attic insulation and vents, which will help keep the roof cool and prevent snow melt. To get an evaluation of your roof contact Jim Peterson of Peterson Roofing (http://ift.tt/1m68iDW) and make sure to nominate or vote in their “No Roof Left Behind” Giveaway. Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1zJLjoI

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Electrical Wiring

Bad wiring in a home can short out and potentially start a fire, and a lot of times you won’t be able to see direct issues with electrical wires. Signs to look for are frequent blown fuses, flickering lights, or feeling a tingling sensation when a wall switch or appliance is touched. If you have a home that is more than 40 years old, consider replacing the wiring and updating the electrical systems. Our house was built in 1964 and nearly every outlet and fixture on the second floor is on the same circuit. That’s four bedrooms and two bathrooms! What were they thinking? Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1EBulYH

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Fireplaces

Fireplaces are more prone for use in the winter months in those regions where the cold temperatures set in. Creosote buildup can cause chimney fires, where sparks fly out and ignite rugs and furniture. For avid chimney users, have your chimney swept once a year, and remember to keep the screen closed when not using the fireplace. It’s also important to have your chimney damper or flue open before lighting a fire and when it’s in use. I can’t remember the last time we used our fireplace. It smells up our house too much. Are you an avid fireplace user? Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1E2cTPA

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Smoke Detectors

We’ve all heard the very annoying chirp of a dying smoke detector. Dead, dying or missing batteries are the top reasons for smoke detector malfunctions. Batteries should be changed at least once a year, and older models that are over 10 years old should be replaced. Some detectors are also equipped with a test mode, so testing your detectors throughout the year will also help indicate if any maintenance needs to take place. Every foreclosure I have ever been in has at least one “chirping” smoke detector. I’m half tempted to start carrying 9V batteries with me on showing appointments just so I can quiet them down! Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1xoK5JG

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Washing Machines

Old hoses have the capability of bursting, which can result in a torrent of water gushing into your laundry room or area, and any low placed electrical outlets could be impacted by water leaks. Replace any old hoses with braided steel hoses, which can be found at any home improvement store or website. Also, check hoses regularly for any leaks or loose connections. When was the last time you even looked behind your washer or dryer? Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1ym35N8

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Dryers

Dryers also have the potential to start fires in the home. Lint can build up inside the dryer cabinet, where the heating element is housed, creating a fire hazard. Clean the lint trap each time you use the dryer, and brush or vacuum buildup around the lint filter every couple of months. Dryer maintenance is also important – have the cabinet cleaned out every two years to prevent potential buildups that could cause a fire. Be honest, do you do this? Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1yaa23K

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Saving Energy Recap

Over the past few posts I’ve shared with you several ideas for saving energy (and money!) in your home. If you missed any you can check them out here: Install a Programmable Thermostat Seal Air Leaks Improve Insulation Install Efficient Windows Conserve Water Unplug Electronic Devices Change Out Light Bulbs Home Energy Audit If you’d like more tips on saving money and conserving energy throughout your home, here are some helpful links for more information: Windows Light Bulbs Water Energy Saving Guide Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1HNkQHG

via IFTTT

Brian Sells Chicago · Home Energy Audit

You also have the option of performing a home energy audit. An energy audit, also known as a home energy assessment, assesses how much energy your home consumes and helps you evaluate the best measures you can take to make your home more energy efficient. There are a number of options for home energy audits, from Do-It-Yourself audits, to professional audits that include blower door tests, thermographic inspections and PFT air infiltration measurements. Find an option that best suits your needs, wants and wallet and discover how you can make your home more energy efficient and save yourself some money. Have you hired someone to do a professional audit in your house? Please comment with your experience! Uncategorized

from bitly http://bit.ly/1FaI6Sl

via IFTTT