Daylight Savings Time (DST) is here, and while it gives us an extra hour of daylight in the evening, it also means adjusting our schedules and routines. Originally created to conserve energy, DST can leave many of us feeling a bit off as we reset clocks and adapt to the change. However, it also serves as a great reminder to tackle important seasonal home maintenance tasks. Follow these essential Home Tasks for Daylight Savings Time and check off those to-dos that will keep your home safe, efficient, and ready for the season ahead. From changing smoke detector batteries to prepping your HVAC system, now’s the time to make sure everything is in top shape.

Change Your Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

Here’s a reminder that’s more important than your morning coffee: it’s time to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors! This simple task can be a lifesaver and ensures your detectors are always ready to do their job. Just replace the batteries, test the alarms to make sure they’re working, and check for any expiration dates on your detectors (yes, they expire!). And for an extra dose of peace of mind, consider upgrading to smart detectors—they’ll send alerts straight to your phone, so you can sleep soundly knowing your home is protected!

Adjust Your Thermostat & HVAC System

Now is the perfect opportunity to check and update your thermostat settings for the new season—because your home should be as comfortable as your bed after that one lost hour of sleep! Adjusting your thermostat to fit the weather can save you big bucks on energy bills. While you’re at it, don’t forget to replace those air filters! Fresh filters = better air quality, and who doesn’t want to breathe easy after a long winter? If you’re feeling extra responsible, schedule an HVAC maintenance check to make sure your system is running smoothly. These are all essential home tasks for daylight savings time, helping to keep your home cozy and efficient year-round!

Reset Timers on Lights & Sprinklers

Now that the days are getting longer (thanks, Daylight Savings!), it’s time to give your light and sprinkler timers a little love. If you have outdoor lights set to turn on at a certain time, make sure they’re not showing up to the party a little too early or too late. Adjust them to align with the new daylight hours so you’re not greeted by darkness when you step outside. And if you have a sprinkler system, double-check that it’s syncing up with the sunrise and sunset—we all know how unpredictable that watering schedule can get!

Check Your Emergency Preparedness Kit

While you’re adjusting to the time change and catching up on lost sleep, take a moment to check your emergency preparedness kit. You never know when you’ll need it, so make sure it’s ready to roll! Restock essential supplies like batteries, flashlights, first aid kits, and non-perishable food—because, let’s face it, those canned beans might be the only thing keeping you going during an emergency. And while you’re at it, update your family emergency contacts and review your home’s evacuation plan. That way, when the unexpected happens, you’ll be ready—and hopefully a little more awake than after that one hour shift!

Clean Out Your Gutters & Outdoor Spaces

If you’re still thinking about all the extra daylight you’ve gained, here’s a reminder that there’s work to be done outside! As the seasons change, it’s time to clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent water from causing damage. You don’t want to end up with a backyard pond when the next rainstorm rolls in! While you’re up there, take a quick look for any loose shingles or roof damage—better to fix it now than face a leak later. And don’t forget to inspect your outdoor furniture—if it’s still covered in last season’s leaves, it’s probably time for a little prep before those spring BBQs. These essential home tasks for daylight savings time will have your home looking fresh and ready for the new season!

Conclusion

Daylight Savings Time may mess with your sleep, but it’s also the perfect reminder to knock out these essential home maintenance tasks. Taking just a little time now can keep your home safe, efficient, and comfortable for the months ahead. So, don’t let the time change throw you off—use it as an opportunity to get your home in tip-top shape.

If you haven’t already, schedule a home energy audit to make sure your home is as energy-efficient as possible for the season ahead: contact us.