Here are some simple routine maintenance tips that will help you extend the life and comfort of your new Ponderosa home. For a more extensive list and a maintenance schedule, please refer to your Ponderosa Homeowner's Manual.

AIR-CONDITIONING

• Forced air units have a filter that requires periodic cleaning or replacement; clean or replace the filter bimonthly or as needed when the system is in use.
• When the air-conditioner is in use, keep all windows, doors and drapes closed.

ALARM SYSTEM

• Test the system each month in order to ensure that it is working properly.

CABINETS

• Maintain your cabinets by using the proper furniture oils at least once every six months. Lemon oil products are suggested for wood cabinet care in order to avoid excessive wax build-up.
• Moisture can severely damage the cabinet finish; wipe off any water with a soft, dry cloth immediately.

CARPET

• You can add years to the life of your carpet with regular care: Vacuum twice each week lightly and once a week thoroughly.
• Wipe spills and clean stains immediately. Pre-test spot-removal solutions in an inconspicuous area before using them in a large area.
• Have your carpet professionally cleaned once a year.
• Avoid fading of your carpet by vacuuming frequently, changing the filters in your heating and air-conditioning units, keeping humidity and room temperature from getting too high, and reducing sunlight exposure with window coverings.

CAULKING

• Check the sealing of caulked areas on kitchen countertops and vinyl/tile-to-tub/shower areas every three months, depending on the usage of the areas. Seal with caulk when necessary.

CERAMIC TILE

• Tile around bathtubs and on countertops may exhibit small cracks in the grout over time. Protect the underlying surface from water damage by applying tub caulk or premixed grout; these products are readily available at hardware stores.
• Keep tile clean in shower areas to avoid mildew buildup on grout and caulking.
• Use a cutting board to protect your kitchen countertops from scratches and heat.

CONCRETE

• By maintaining good drainage, you protect your home's foundation and concrete flatwork, which includes the porch, patio, driveway, garage floor and sidewalks.
• Sweep, rather than hose-down the garage to clean it.
• Do not permit heavy vehicles such as moving vans or concrete trucks to drive on your property.
• Always make sure water drains away from your foundation.

DOORS

• If your home has exterior wood doors, plan to refinish them at least once a year. Treat the finish with a wood preserver every three months to protect the varnish and prevent the door from drying and cracking. Reseal stained exterior doors whenever the finish begins cracking.
• If your home has a fiberglass door, repaint before chipping or wearing away of original finish occurs.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

• GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters) are circuit breakers with "test" and "reset" buttons that appear in bathrooms, kitchen, outside and the garage. These should be tested each month.

GAS WATER HEATER

• To save energy, reduce build-up of chemical deposits and prolong the life of your water heater, periodically drain several gallons of water from the bottom of the unit.

HARDWOOD FLOORS

• Sweep or vacuum on a daily basis or as needed. Never wet mop a hardwood floor.
• Avoid placing heavy furniture or objects on hardwood floors.
• Install proper floor protectors on furniture placed on the floors.
• Clean up spills immediately with a dry cloth.
• Avoid exposure from direct sunlight; install window coverings to preserve the beauty of your floors.

HEATING SYSTEM

• Avoid overheating your home.
• Change or clean the filter monthly while the system is in use (year-round if you also have air-conditioning).
• Permanent, washable, removable filters should be cleaned monthly.

LANDSCAPING

• Install the basic components of your landscaping as soon as weather permits; well-designed landscaping prevents erosion and protects the foundation of your home. Always drain water away from the foundation.
• Routinely inspect downspouts, backfill areas and all other drainage components.
• Do not place plants or sprinkler heads within one foot of your home.
• Do not allow edgings and/or decorative rock/bark to interfere with drainage.
• Additions of patios and walkways are great, but take special care not to cover or obstruct drainage lines.
• Conduct weekly operational checks to ensure proper performance of your irrigation system. -Regularly service drains and sprinkler systems.

PAINT AND STAIN

• Exterior painted and stained surfaces should be checked annually. Repaint before chipping or wearing away of the original finish occurs.
• Plan on refinishing the exterior surface of your home approximately every two to three years or as needed.

PLUMBING

• Always use cold water when operating the garbage disposal; allow the water to run 10-15 seconds after shutting off the disposal.
• Remove hoses connected to outside faucets during cold weather to avoid water freezing inside the hose and backing up into the pipe.

ROOF (TILE)

• Do not walk or stand on the roof of your new home; do not nail anything to the roof.
• Properly maintain your roof by thoroughly examining it at least once a year; clear all vents, chimneys and rain gutters.
• After severe storms, have a visual inspection of your roof performed in order to detect damage.

SMOKE DETECTORS

• Clean each smoke detector monthly to prevent a false alarm or lack of response in a fire. After cleaning, push the "test" button to confirm the alarm is working.
• Change batteries twice a year when the time changes for daylight savings time.