Spring Home Reset - Simple Ways to Freshen up Your Home After Winter

Spring is here, which makes it the perfect time to give your home a freshen-up and tackle a few of those jobs that may have been put off over winter.

Here are some simple ways to give your home a spring reset.

1. Freshen up your heating & cooling

After winter, your heating and cooling systems can collect plenty of dust. Give them a quick clean before you start using them regularly again.

Split-system air conditioners 
Clean the filters with warm water and mild detergent, then allow them to dry completely before replacing them. Wipe the exterior with a microfibre cloth. 

Ducted heating 
Vacuum the return-air grille and clean or replace the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. Give accessible vents a quick dust. 

Evaporative cooling 
Clean filters or cooling pads according to the manufacturer's instructions and clear any leaves or debris around the outdoor unit. 

Gas heaters 
Vacuum dust from accessible grilles and wipe the exterior. Keep furniture, curtains and other items clear of the heater. 

Hydronic heating 
Dust or wipe down accessible radiators and panels and keep them clear of furniture and curtains. 

Ceiling fans 
Place an old pillowcase over each blade and gently wipe - the dust stays inside the pillowcase rather than falling all over the room! 

A few cleaning tips:

• Always turn the appliance off before cleaning

• Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment for dust and vents

• A microfibre cloth is great for exterior surfaces

• Check the manufacturer's instructions before removing filters or covers

• Don't spray water or cleaning products directly into electrical components

• If a system needs servicing or isn't operating properly, leave it to a qualified technician

2. Freshen up your windows and tracks

Window tracks can collect plenty of dust and grime over time. 

You'll need: 

• Vacuum cleaner

• Old toothbrush or small cleaning brush

• Warm soapy water

• Microfibre cloth

The easy method: vacuum, scrub, wipe.

Start by vacuuming out loose dirt and dust. Use an old toothbrush with warm soapy water to loosen grime from the corners and tracks, then wipe everything down with a microfibre cloth.

Tip: Don't pour large amounts of water into window tracks, particularly around drainage holes.

While you're there, give your flyscreens a clean and check that windows and latches are operating properly.

3. Give your exhaust fans a spring clean

Exhaust fans can collect a surprising amount of dust, particularly in bathrooms and laundries.

If your exhaust fan is safely within reach:

• Turn the fan off

• Remove the cover if it is designed to be removed

• Vacuum away loose dust

• Wash the cover with warm soapy water and allow it to dry completely

• Wipe around the fan housing with a dry or slightly damp cloth

• Replace the cover once everything is completely dry

Got a high exhaust fan? Try this simple trick.

Don't climb on furniture or balance on a chair. Instead, wrap a microfibre cloth around the end of a broom or mop and gently wipe the cover and surrounding area.

4. Clean your rangehood filters

Rangehood filters can build up grease and dust over time, so spring is a great time to give them some attention. 

You'll need: 

• Warm water

• Dishwashing liquid

• Soft brush or non-abrasive sponge

• Microfibre cloth 

How to clean them: 

• Turn the rangehood off

• Remove the filters according to the manufacturer's instructions

• Soak the filters in warm water with dishwashing liquid

• Gently scrub away any remaining grease and grime

• Rinse thoroughly and allow the filters to dry completely

• Wipe down the rangehood itself with a damp microfibre cloth before replacing the filters

Tip: Always check the manufacturer's instructions first, as some filters have specific cleaning requirements.

5. Declutter and clear out

Spring is the perfect time to tackle the garage, cupboards, sheds and storage areas.

If you're getting rid of larger unwanted items, check with your local council to see what hard rubbish or bulk waste collection services are available in your area.

Find your local council – Victorian Government

6. Get your outdoor spaces ready

With warmer weather on the way, it's time to get your outdoor areas ready for enjoying the sunshine.

• Give outdoor furniture a good clean after winter.
• Dust off and clean the BBQ before your first spring cook-up. 
• Sweep patios, balconies and entertaining areas. 
• Clean outdoor cushions and check they are still in good condition. 
• Tidy garden beds and remove fallen leaves and debris. 
• Give the outdoor entertaining area a quick refresh before friends and family arrive. 

Tip: If you're using outdoor furniture or a BBQ that's been stored away for winter, give it a quick check and clean before putting it back into regular use.

A quick reminder for renters

If you notice something isn't working as it should while you're giving your home a spring clean, let your property manager know so it can be looked after.

A little spring reset goes a long way

A few simple jobs now can make your home feel fresher and more comfortable for the warmer months ahead.

From all of us at LongView, happy spring cleaning!