10 Tips for Using Social Media During Child Custody Cases

When it comes to dividing custodial rights and responsibilities, things are never easy. Parents go through the rollercoaster of the divorce process in an attempt to guarantee the best possible future for their kids. Although, they may want the same outcomes divorcees often are not ready to cooperate on the custody decisions. For example, famous custody cases depict how parents use all means, including social media, to sabotage each other and get the upper hand in custody. Check out how to protect yourself from social media spoiling your custody battle outcomes and reach the desired results for your family with no hassle.

How Social Media Can Affect Your Child Custody Case

When you go through child custody tips, you may spot the recommendation to decrease social media use in any brochure or guidance. So what about social media that may harm your custody rights and perspectives so much? Look closer and you will know the details:

  • Spoil your reputation – the wrong image on your social media page or the image that your partner will present of you may spoil your reputation. Wrong comments, photos, or posts, and you will be a person who shouldn’t be trusted in the eyes of the judge. 
  • Used as proof you are an inappropriate candidate – any information you share online may be misunderstood or misused to depict you as a person who cares about how long does it take to get divorce in Texas but not about the kids’ wellness.
  • Reveal your bad traits – everyone has a bad side. but it doesn’t mean you have to talk about it openly and in the judge’s face. Within social media, the court may get to know some spicy details about you that will worsen your position in the divorce case. 
  • Tell too much about your private life – you may be dating another person already, go to parties for singles, and commit to your personal life the way you want. But if you spill some details to social media, your spouse may use it against you in court, and you will hardly win the child support and custody battle in the end. 
  • Display you have the wrong priorities – talking about significant purchases, posting your location, being tagged on photos may prove that you can have fun without your children and may display you as a parent who doesn’t care much. 

Even if you are a dream parent and prioritize your kids’ wellness, your activity online may be misused and misinterpreted to prove that you are not a suitable candidate for a significant custody share. This is why you need to be extremely careful with social media use during divorce and take appropriate measures to succeed in custody agreement.  

How to Deal with Social Media During Child Custody Case

It is necessary to find your own golden rule for exploiting social media when dealing with a custody case. Check out some child custody trial tips to protect yourself and your family from any negative impact of social media:

  1. Stay away – the best approach is to decrease social media use during divorce cases as much as you can. But if you cannot make such drastic changes, you need to be very careful about what to do and what to avoid online. 
  2. Don’t delete – no matter how much you want to hide your past from the court or how much you want to prevent any misunderstandings, never consider deleting your social media account or removing any data and posts from it. You will look even more guilty and as if you are trying to keep some proofs on the case n the secret. 
  3. Adjust privacy settings – do you know who can view your page, who can tag you on photos, who can share your posts? Review the privacy settings and adjust them so that you cannot be sabotaged or spied on during a custody case.
  4. Clean up your friend list – the next step after privacy settings is to look through your friends list. Remove everyone who may be a threat to your reputation during the case, who may spy for your ex and any people who you barely know. This will protect you from any kind of privacy invasion. 
  5. Don’t share your divorce details – no matter how tempted you are to share your side of the story and prove father involvement in your kids’ life, better keep it to yourself for now. Remember that everything may be misinterpreted and drive the results of your custody case not in your favor.
  6. Don’t set an online conflict – avoid bickering online. No matter your intentions to protect your own name or the good name of your family. Everything you post or comment on to develop the conflict may be exploited against you in social media and child custody battles later.
  7. Stay away from bragging – purchased something great, moved to a new place, achieved a new position, or any other pleasant things that happened to you recently. This doesn’t mean that all your followers should know about it. Your ex may get envious or angry about your progress and use it against you. 
  8. Ask before posting pics of your kids – when things are complicated between you and your ex, you should better not do anything that can worsen the relationship between you two. This includes posting photos of your kids without your spouse’s consent. 
  9. Stay away from dating platforms – your private life is your personal concern but changing your marital status too soon or joining a dating platform may prove that kids are not your priority. 
  10. Care about a positive image – if you still decide to keep on using social media, care to present yourself in a good light. You can ask your lawyer for advice on the best choices. 

Social media misuse may prevent you from reaching positive and comfortable child custody arrangements and drag out your case. So, if you want to go on with your active social life online, care to follow simple rules not to sabotage yourself or grant your ex a chance to spoil your reputation. Anyway, if you want to obtain the best possible results of the custody case, get an amicable divorce to help you. 

How To Tackle Different Fabric Stains In The Home

Stains can be one of the most difficult things to get rid of in the home, and according to reports, 65% of them are caused by sticky foods. It can be disheartening, especially if they get into your expensive upholstered furniture, rugs and carpets, and curtains. Fortunately, with a few tricks and good timing and technique, you should be able to get rid of some stains. Below are some stains and tips for getting them out.

  • Coffee and tea stains

 

Image credit

The main plant compounds in these two favorite beverages are caffeine and tannin, which are activated when the beverages are hot. When there is a spillage on a fabric, the high temperature immediately opens the fibers and absorbs the liquid in seconds. That is what makes coffee and tea stains difficult to remove.

The first thing to do is sponge the stained area with cold water. The contradicting temperature is the easiest way to halt deeper absorption into the fibers. When the affected area is saturated, you can prewash the site with a stain remover. After that, use a color-safe bleach to remove any further traces of the stain. Professional stain removal experts say if the fabric is a piece of clothing, this process is required before machine washing.

  • Ink stains on fabric

An ink stain on any fabric must be treated immediately. The first thing is to apply alcohol or hand sanitizer to dilute the pigmentation from seeping further into the inner layer of the fabric. About a decade ago, hairsprays were used because of their high alcohol content. However, research discovered that the alcohol percentage is too low to counteract the effect of ink.

If you’re using alcohol, remember to saturate the affected area until completely soaked. After that, place clean paper towels over the stain site. This will absorb the dissolved ink from the spot. Because alcohol dries quickly, you may have to reapply to the same spot and soak up with another set of clean paper towels again. When the area shows significant fading, you can wash the site with a mixture of alcohol and dishwashing liquid. Repeat the process until you are satisfied with the result. There are some instances where trying to remove such stains is not advisable. For example, if the stain is on a rug, it would be best to call professional carpet cleaning services. 

  • Water-based paint stains

Water-based paints contain filler, binder, and pigments. They have become the most preferred paints because of their low VOC content. However, they can quickly become a headache when accidentally spilled on fabric. Filler and pigment in the paint immediately bind to any fabric, making them difficult to remove when they harden. First, rinse the area with warm water immediately after the spillage occurs.

Wash the spot as much as possible when the paint is still wet. Then, follow up with mild washing detergent until completely gone. If the stain hardened before you noticed it, you would have to scrape the site with a dull knife. Remember to wash the area with warm water before applying a stain remover when the flakes are off. 

Sign Up – Winter Wishes Giveaway Hop

 

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Sign Up – New Year New You Giveaway Hop

 

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Minimum prize value of $10. Must be a new item.

Start time: January 1– 9:00 am EST
End time: January 15– 11:59 pm EST
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Events must be open to US entrants.

Adding your link means you agree to the following terms:
Your post must include the following:

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A clear form of entry (a giveaway form or a blog comment)
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Looking for a Minimalistic Environment: Here’s How to Design the Perfect Tiny Home

Living in a tiny home is a growing trend. People are moving away from traditional houses and opting for smaller, more minimalistic dwellings. If you’re interested in designing your own tiny home, this blog post is for you! We will discuss the basics of tiny home design and provide tips on how to create a comfortable and functional living space. So whether you’re downsizing or simply looking for a change of pace, read on for some helpful advice on designing the perfect tiny home!

 

Understand Tiny Home Basics

Before you start, it’s important to understand the basics of small home design. A tiny home is a dwelling with an interior area of 400 square feet or less. This includes the living room, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters. Generally speaking, tiny homes are built on trailers for mobility and often have off-grid capabilities such as solar power or composting toilets.

 

This also relates to the overall look and feel of the tiny home. For example, many tiny homes are designed with an open floor plan, making use of lofted areas for sleeping quarters or storage. This helps to create a spacious feel within a smaller area. In addition, most tiny homes make use of natural light and efficient space-saving furniture to maximize the living area.

Photo by Maria Orlova: 

Determine Your Needs

Once you understand the basics of tiny home design, it’s essential to determine your needs. This includes considering how many people will be living in your tiny home and what features you would like to include.

 

When considering how many people will live in the home, consider whether any occupants are children or animals. This is important because it can affect the size of the available space and how comfortable it will be for everyone living in the home. Additionally, you should also consider what type of furniture and appliances you need in your tiny home so that it functions appropriately.

 

Choose Your Layout

The layout of a tiny house can also determine its livability. Choosing a layout that works with your needs is essential for creating a comfortable and practical environment that meets all your expectations. Consider asking yourself questions such as: What activities will take place in each room? How will you use the space to optimize efficiency?

 

When it comes to layout, there are many different options available. For example, some tiny homes use lofts or mezzanines for additional sleeping or storage space. Others feature Murphy beds or adaptable furniture that can be used for multiple purposes. Ultimately, the best layout works with your lifestyle and allows you to maximize the amount of usable space.

 

Think About Sustainability

The last thing to consider when designing a tiny home is sustainability. Pump services are essential for managing water and waste, and many tiny homes rely on solar power or other forms of renewable energy. Additionally, think about small-scale gardening options and composting systems, which can help to provide food while reducing your carbon footprint.

 

When it comes to materials, look for durable items that won’t need to be replaced often or those made from sustainable sources such as bamboo stalks. Reclaimed wood can also be used in the construction of a tiny home without breaking the bank.

 

Designing the perfect tiny home takes careful planning and consideration of all your needs. By taking the time to understand the basics, determine your needs, choose a layout, and think about sustainability, you can create an environment that is comfortable for you and your family. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to designing the perfect tiny home.

 

Achieve Great Bathroom Renovation Results Without Spending A Fortune

Whether you have lived in your home for years or have moved into a new property, it might be time to give your bathroom a makeover so that it aligns with your interior standards and preferences. 

 

Doing a bathroom renovation can be efficient and affordable with the right tips. This guide will ensure you complete your bathroom renovation to the best possible standard without spending a fortune. 

Photo by Jean van der Meulen: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-bathroom-interior-1454804/

 

New plumbing

Whether the bathroom is old or needs some maintenance, it can be a smart move to attain plumbing remodeling. Doing so will ensure your pipes and other plumbing components are working efficiently. You might need help with installing new taps or want to flush your pipes to achieve better water pressure. 

 

Whatever your plumbing needs are, getting professional assistance with plumbing remodeling will ensure the best and safest results.

 

Grouting and new sealant

Another effective way to improve your bathroom without spending a fortune is to freshen up the grout and the sealant around your tiles, toilet, sink, and bath. Grotty grout and sealant will not make the bathroom look or feel nice. 

 

Simply wiping the old grout and sealant down to clean it before redoing it will ensure the best results. It can take a few minutes for each part of the bathroom. Before you know it, the entire bathroom will look and feel fresh. 

 

Refreshing the paint

As well as refreshing the grout and sealant, it can be a great idea to refresh the paint. You might have an entire wall to paint or a few features. Either way, freshening up what you already have will make the bathroom feel cleaner. 

 

Plus, you might already have the paint tin in the cupboard and ready to go. This will ensure you do not need to splash out on new paint and, instead, can freshen up the bathroom for no extra cost.

 

New fixtures

To make a sink or bath look new, you don’t need to get a new one. After freshening up the grout and sealant, you might consider adding new fixtures. 

 

A new tap can make all the difference to the appearance of your tub or sink. 

 

Add storage to the floor or bathroom walls

If you find your bathroom cluttered or easy to get messy, you might want to think about getting some storage. A small unit could be what you need to tidy up your sides and keep them clear. 

 

You can keep your toiletries tidy and your bathroom spotless by adding a small storage unit to any spare space. If you lack floor space, you could add a wall cabinet or shelves to achieve the same effect. 

 

It can be easy and simple to renovate and upgrade your bathroom without spending a fortune. Adding new features and freshening existing ones does not need to break your bank account. You can have your bathroom looking and feel fresher in no time with these simple tricks. 

3 Painful & Difficult Plumbing Mistakes To Avoid, At Any Cost

Pexels – CC0 License

 

Plumbing issues may be a big pain, especially if costly repairs are required. Not to mention going without plumbing functionality is more than tiresome. Not being able to visit the bathroom, to enjoy hot water, or to cope with the bad smells coming from your shower drain is never a fun time. You have better things to do than worry about this.

 

But it’s even more annoying when a hopeful solution just adds to the problem, be that due to our prior ignorance or lack of qualifications. So, let’s consider how someone might add to a plumbing issue. For that reason, you can plan against these outcomes.

 

Without further ado, let’s get started:

 

Using The Incorrect Tools

 

Using the incorrect tools is among the greatest plumbing mistakes made by homeowners.

For instance, trying to clear a clog in a toilet with a plunger when the problem is a blockage in the drain pipe. In addition to not solving the issue, doing this may also result in additional damage and more costly repairs. That’s not a great deal of fun, and might we say, probably the opposite of why you purchased a plunger in the first place.

 

Knowing your plumbing system inside and out and keeping the appropriate tools for potential issues is the best way to prevent making this error and others like them. A good way to soften a blockage, for instance, is to use an industrial drain cleaner with some rubber gloves, flush with water after waiting a while, and then use anti-blocking measures like pipe cleaners. If you’re unsure, Google, or ask on a DIY forum on sites like Reddit.

 

Ignoring Leaks

 

Ignoring plumbing system leaks is a costly mistake as well. Even while a minor drip may not seem like a huge matter at first, it can gradually worsen. Leaks over time can result in water damage to your walls, floors, and ceilings as well as the development of mold. That can cause a real respiratory problem if you’re not careful.

 

Watch out for any leaks and fix them as soon as you can if you want to prevent making this error. Call a plumber right away to examine the situation and make the required repairs if you see a drop or stain on your ceiling. The last thing you need is a pipe to burst, or a tap to come off in your hand leading to a shower of water.

 

DIY Catastrophes

 

A further costly error is attempting to handle plumbing issues on your own without the necessary training or competence. DIY plumbing can frequently cause more harm than good, despite the fact that it may seem like a smart idea to save money by doing it yourself.

 

Leaving plumbing repairs to the experts is the easiest way to avoid making this error.

Sure, it might cost a little more up front, but by ensuring the issue is resolved properly and averting additional harm, it will end up saving you money. We only mention this because too many people think they can get away with home plumbing, after all it’s not like you’re playing around the electric circuit, right? But that doesn’t mean it’s safe.

With this advice, we hope you can avoid making the most costly plumbing mistakes going forward.

Tips For Caring For Elderly Parents At Home

Via Unsplash

 

It can be difficult to know how to care for elderly parents properly, especially if you are juggling work and family commitments at the same time. However, with a bit of organization and some helpful tips, it is definitely possible to look after them adequately in the comfort of their own home. This blog post will discuss tips that should help make the process a little easier for you.

 

1) Safety First:

Making sure your elderly parents are safe should be your top priority. Make regular safety checks of their home, including checking for tripping hazards, installing grab bars and handrails in bathrooms and hallways, as well as fitting smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Check that all electrical items are up to date and properly maintained.

 

2) Get the Right Equipment:

Investing in the right equipment can make a huge difference when caring for an elderly parent at home. This can include things like stairlifts, wheelchairs, or even walking frames. Also, consider getting hold of special beds such as those with adjustable mattresses or those with guard rails attached to them for added support and safety when sleeping or taking naps during the day.

 

3) Make Meal Times Easier:

Eating is essential for an elderly person, so making sure meal times are as easy and stress-free as possible is important. Invest in medical equipment such as special plates, utensils, or even seat cushions with adjustable heights to make meals easier for your parents. You can also look into services offering prepared meals that can be delivered to their home on a regular basis.

 

4) Have Regular Medical Checkups:

It is important to have regular checkups with doctors and other healthcare professionals like nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. This will allow them to monitor any changes in your elderly parent’s health and recommend treatments if necessary. Also, consider getting a home health aid to help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. It’s worth continually checking the best coverage you can provide, as Medicare supplement insurance may help with further eligibilities that could enhance their caregiving access.

 

5) Focus On Mental Health:

It is essential that you focus on your elderly parent’s mental and emotional well-being too. This can include things like keeping them engaged by setting tasks or puzzles and encouraging social interaction with friends and family. You can also look into services offering cognitive stimulation therapy (CST), which is designed specifically for people in the later stages of life.

 

6) Make Sure They Have Support:

Having a strong support network is important for any elderly person. Make sure your elderly parent has someone they can contact if needed, whether it’s a friend, family member, or neighbor. You can also look into services such as day centers or adult day care, which can provide social interaction and activities for them.

 

7) Have an Emergency Plan:

It’s important to have an emergency plan in place just in case something goes wrong. This should include having a list of emergency contacts, naming a responsible individual to take charge if you are unavailable, and ensuring that your elderly parent has access to all the necessary medical information.

 

8) Encourage Physical Activity:

Keeping active is important for any elderly person, so try to encourage regular physical activity. This could be anything from taking daily walks outside to trying out some light exercises at home with their help. Joining a seniors group or class may also appeal to them.

 

9) Make Use of Technology:

Technology can be a great way to stay in touch and make life easier for both you and your elderly parent. You could look into getting them a smartphone or tablet with various applications that can help remind them to take medications, keep track of their appointments, or even order groceries online.

 

10) Take Time Out For Yourself:

Caring for an elderly parent at home can be challenging and time-consuming, so it’s important to make sure you take some time out for yourself too. Whether it’s reading a book, going on a walk, or just having some alone time, taking care of yourself will help ensure your own well-being and enable you to better care for your elderly parent.

 

11) Online resources:

Visit a website for seniors that can provide valuable information and resources, such as legal advice or support services. You can also look up community centers and non-profit organizations dedicated to helping seniors and their caregivers.

 

12) Make sure they sleep well:

It is essential for your elderly parent to get enough rest. Ensure that the bedroom environment is comfortable and peaceful, without distractions such as TV or loud noises. Look into getting bed rails or adjustable beds if needed, and consider investing in a mattress made specifically with seniors in mind. There are sleep issues that will need to be monitored and treated as necessary, like insomnia or sleep apnea.

 

13) Nutrition:

It is important to make sure that your elderly parent’s diet is healthy and balanced. Talk to their doctor about any specific dietary needs they may have due to age-related health conditions. If necessary, you can also look into getting home-delivered meals for convenience. Avoid unhealthy snacks and add plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to their daily diet.

 

14) Listen to them:

It is essential to listen to your elderly parent and respect their wishes. They may want to stay independent for as long as possible, so try not to assume that you know what’s best for them. Having conversations with them will help you better understand their needs and how best to support them.

 

15) Connect with other family members:

If possible, try to involve other family members in caring for your elderly parent. This could be as simple as having regular phone calls or setting up video chats so they can stay in touch. Other relatives may also be willing to help out with tasks such as shopping or providing transportation if needed.

 

Caring for elderly parents at home can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. By taking the time to understand their needs and following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your elderly parent receives the best care possible. Keep an open mind and look out for any warning signs that may indicate they need professional help. Doing so will not only bring peace of mind but will also give them the opportunity to live their life with dignity and independence.

 

Making a Seamless Connection Between Your Indoor and Outdoor Living Spaces

Making a seamless connection between your indoor and outdoor living spaces can potentially add great value not only to your property but also to the way you live your life if it is done correctly. Whether you live out in the middle of nowhere with plenty of open space or in the middle of a city, you can turn your outside space into an additional room in your home with a little bit of imagination and some creative thinking.

 

It is worthwhile to think about what you might be able to do in a creative and unique way with your space, regardless of the size of the room you have available to you. Take a look at some of the possibilities outlined below to get you started and to motivate you to become a part of an ever-expanding movement.

image

 

Take into account the physical connection.

 

When it comes to connecting indoor and outdoor locations, establishing the nature of the physical connection that will be created between the two spaces in question is one of the most significant decisions to be taken. It is essential to keep in mind that it is wholly dependent on your property; for instance, if you live in an old home demolishing walls in order to install aluminium bi-fold doors would not be the best answer. Nevertheless, if you are in a position to do so, you should think about the ways in which you might be able to virtually do away with the barrier that is currently there between the two of them using patio doors.

 

Put some artwork on the wall

 

With the installation of lights and the embellishment of garden walls, it will be much simpler to produce an incredible atmosphere in the outside space. If you want to keep your stuff dry and safe from the elements, select things that are not only lightweight but also simple to carry in and out of the house. If you intend to leave them outside for the entire year, you should make sure that they are either waterproof or that they can tolerate the look of weathering.

 

In addition, there are ceramics that are created with the specific intention of being used outside while exposed to the weather. There are also canvas options that are weather repellent, in addition to outdoor wall sculptures. In addition, old enamel lettering looks fantastic when it is applied to external brick walls. 

 

Outdoor kitchen

 

If you want to install a gas-fueled barbecue, whether it is powered by a gas bottle or by mains gas, make sure there is plenty of space for preparing food and storing it before you start the installation process. Also take into consideration the installation of outdoor sinks, which will make the process of cleaning up a lot easier to manage and will save you time.

When designing your outdoor kitchen, consider the expertise of reliable companies like RTA Outdoor Living to help you choose different grills and other outdoor kitchen essentials. Professionals can assist in integrating your indoor and outdoor living spaces seamlessly for an efficient, enjoyable, well-designed outdoor cooking and entertaining area.

 

Maintain as much of a smooth surface and one level as you can.

 

This one can be challenging since, if your outside space was not originally created in this manner, completing this project may need a large amount of renovation work. However, if it is at all possible to do so, you should try to avoid stepping down steps into the garden or up steps into the garden. This will, in the future, preclude the existence of a boundary and a physical distinction between the two areas, which will make it possible for them to flow into and connect with one another in a more unrestricted manner.

 

Protection from the elements

 

If you have an attractive garden, you will want to spend as much time as possible there throughout the year, regardless of whether it is cloudy, snowing, or shining brightly outside. The one and only method to successfully accomplish this is to ensure that you have some kind of contained enclosure in place. This shields you from the elements, such as rain, snow, and the sun, and also provides you with some protection from the wind.

 

You can choose to cover your space with something that is fixed and permanent, or you can choose something that is more flexible and temporary to cover it while it is being used. It is possible to provide shade for the home by erecting shade structures such as gazebos or awnings on the side of the house. In addition, wooden structures that can support a suitable roof can be made and placed in the appropriate location. This is something to take into consideration as a prospective choice in the event that you have decided to install an outdoor kitchen or a great dining area in your backyard.

 

Install a heater

 

You will almost always need some kind of warmth, unless you have the good fortune to live in a climate where you can rely on consistent sunshine throughout the whole year. In that case, you are quite fortunate. Even though it could be a wonderful night outside, if you stay out all night talking with your loved ones and friends, you might get a little chilly. Either a patio heater or a fire pit is an appropriate choice; however, before installing either one, you need to verify that there will be sufficient ventilation and that there are no potential sources of ignition in the neighbourhood.

 

Boost the wi-fi

 

Imagine you are at the farthest point of your garden and you are trying to connect to the internet, but you are unable to do so since your wifi signal is not as strong as it should be. If you try to access the service but are situated too far away from the server, it is possible that it will be unusable, sluggish, or even completely unavailable to you when you do so. It is possible that dealing with the matter at the same time as your guests will be inconvenient for everyone involved. You can get around this problem by utilising a WiFi extender or booster, which will let you connect to the internet regardless of where you are.

 

The development of indoor and outdoor spaces that are seamlessly connected is a trend that, from what can be seen, is likely to remain popular for the foreseeable future. 

Furnace Tips for a Cozy Winter

Wintertime is when your heating system is going to be doing its most important work, so you want to know that it is prepared and safe to be running smoothly and keeping your house toasty and warm all season long.

Read ahead to get a few key tips for maintaining a furnace ahead of, and during, the coldest months of the year – so that you can be sure to have a cozy winter.

Clear Out The Dust

Dust build-up can limit how effectively your furnace is able to function, and it can even stop it from working altogether if the problem gets too drastic. The start of winter is when your furnace will have been left untouched for the longest time, so make sure to give the interior a gentle dust and then vacuum up everything that comes loose.

Check Your Flame Sensor

The flame sensor in your furnace is an essential security feature that is designed to detect flames and prevent explosions. If it is not clean and functioning properly then your furnace won’t run.

Make sure to give it a gentle wipe-down and, if it’s still not working, you may need to empty out your drainage tube. A clogged drainage tube will cause a water build-up that your sensor can detect, causing it to turn off the furnace entirely.

Check The Connections

All of the connected parts inside your furnace – including venting pipes, drainage tubes, and wires – can become loose over time, which can pose a significant safety hazard or prevent your system from functioning properly.

Give everything a careful once-over before switching the furnace on, making sure that the pipes and tubes are securely fastened into place and there are no loose wires or connections.

The Smell Test

When it comes to a gas furnace, the biggest danger to look out for is always going to be the potential for a leak.

Have a quick sniff around the your system’s gas line before you turn anything on. If you can smell sulfur (similar to the smell of rotten eggs), then you may have a leak that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

Filter Maintenance Is Key

One of the most important things that you can do to make sure your furnace lasts as long as possible is to replace the filter regularly. This will improve its efficiency too, helping you save up to 15% on your energy bill.

An old, dirty filter will limit air flow and reduce air quality, and it can even cause your system to overheat and fail.

Hire A Professional

While there are a number of quick things that you can do yourself to make sure your furnace is ready for the winter, it’s always worth trusting the more significant jobs to a professional. They can help to fix loose ductwork, blown motors, damaged filters, burners that are not firing correctly, and any number of other problems.

No matter what checks you can do yourself, it is a good idea to have a proper inspection carried out by a qualified mechanic at least once a year – and it is even required for many warranties.

If you’re in the Charlotte area, you can get in touch with Morris Jenkins furnace maintenance service until midnight, 7 days a week, to schedule an appointment.