Your Spring Cleaning Guide
Spring is here and your home deserves a tuneup to keep running smoothly as the seasons change. The maintenance team from Alvarez Construction Company is making it easier than ever with a series of instructional videos on our YouTube channel that cover common maintenance tasks like checking the seals around your windows and switching the water shutoff valve.
Check the window seals
Airtight seals on new homes prevent drafts and help homeowners save hundreds of dollars on bills throughout the life of the home. The key to maintaining this seal, however, is to make sure that the seals around individual windows and doors are in good working condition. This video shows how to unlock and remove window panels. This will allow you to clean the window and remove the screen as well if it needs repairs. While you are checking windows, take time to examine the caulk around them for any cracks and fill them in as needed. This will keep good, clean air in your home and make the summer a little less strained for your HVAC system.
Keep your family breathing easy
One of the signature features in Alvarez homes is the hospital-grade air filtration included in each home. Filters are judged by the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value or MERV. The standard for housing is MERV 8, but the better the filtration, the better. Alvarez Construction Company installs MERV 16 air filters at the unit rather than the air returns to maximize filtration.
This system is most effective when the filters are changed consistently. To do this, homeowners will need to gain access through the attic and approach the unit. Then, you pop off the cover and slide out the filter. Arrows on the new filter will demonstrate how to install the new filter. Once the cover is back in place, the filter will continue running in the background and protecting your family from common allergens. This video provides a quick overview of the process.
Set reminders for frequent tasks
Your state-of-the-art thermostat not only allows you to control the temperature and humidity in your home, but it can also serve as your first line of defense in the event of trouble. The unit is equipped with an alarm that will notify homeowners of a failed ignition or drainage issue. You can also set a schedule for daily routines or reminders about tasks like changing filters. This video is a reminder of how to program your thermostat and make it work for you.
When is it time to call the warranty department?
Alvarez Construction Company provides a 5-2-1 warranty for each homeowner as required by the Louisiana New Home Warranty Act. The five-year structural warranty covered major structural defects, the two-year warranty covered mechanical issues and the one-year warranty covers the entire home in terms of material defect. This also includes appliances. You can review the warranty manual here and bookmark the page to return and watch warranty videos whenever you need a refresher.
For more advice on how to care for your new home, or to make a Warranty Request, call (225) 240-4662 or contact us.
