Day Light Savings Tips

The Basics of Daylight Saving

Spring forward: Each year on a predetermined date in March (For those states where Daylight saving applies), the clock “springs forward” one hour at 2:00AM. Good news – The days are longer and brighter – no more getting out of work at 5pm to an almost pitch black sky! Let the outdoor patio eating commence!

Fall back: On a predetermined date in November, the clock “falls back” one hour at 2:00AM (making it 1:00AM). This allows for more light in the morning, but unfortunately makes it darker much sooner in the evenings.

Now that we have the basics out of the way, here are a few transitions you can make in your home when daylight saving time comes around!

Replace Batteries: Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are incredibly important, but their upkeep is easily neglected in the craziness of our everyday busy lives. Use daylight saving time as a calendar reminder to test the devices and replace the batteries in these life-saving devices.

Make a Fall/Spring Cleaning Rule:
Spring cleaning is important to keeping your house clutter-free and helping with that pesky pack rat habit you may have. Use the bi-annual daylight saving time change as a cue to implement some spring/fall cleaning. Go through your clothes and give away items you haven’t worn in a year by donating to Goodwill or other local organizations.

 

Heating and Cooling System Checks: Maintenance is absolutely key for responsible home ownership. Anyone who has had to replace an HVAC system knows it can cost upward of $10,000 for a brand new system. Proper maintenance can help lengthen the life of your system and avoid expensive repairs. When the time changes, have your HVAC looked at by a professional to save you expensive heartache in the long hall.

Flip your mattress: Mattresses should flipped several times a year (or turned if it cannot be flipped) to make sure the weight is being evenly distributed throughout the mattress. This will extend the life of your mattress. While you are flipping the mattress, take the sheets off and vacuum the top and sides of the mattress. You sleep on it every night, so don’t neglect your mattress!

Don’t forget to change clocks! This seems like an obvious one, but being one hour off can really throw a wrench in your day! While most of our clocks are electronic and change automatically, changing your manual or battery operated clocks is key for not interrupting your routine and schedule!

 

Daylight saving time can be a great way to remind us to do other important tasks around the house, and not just checking the time!

 

Blog courtesy of Jackie Fogartie

Source: https://www.homes.com/blog/2016/10/time-change-tips-home/