Fire extinguisher

Much as I like to pretend otherwise, there's more to giving your home a good clean than dusting off that vintage-ceramic-deer collection and scrubbing down the bathroom. This year, before you tackle the superficial tasks, take a look at Erin Doland's (of Unclutterer fame) list of what she calls "systems" upkeep tasks. The idea is, if you keep your major appliances and, well, infrastructure clean and tuned up, they'll operate better, save you money, and even keep you healthier. Some of the projects she suggests you take on: changing the filters in your range hood, clothes dryer, furnace, and air conditioning units; making an appointment to have your home's security system professionally tested; getting your lawn mower serviced and ready for summer; checking dates on fire extinguishers (may we recommend purchasing the Home Hero if yours has expired—or you don't know how to use it?) and replacing batteries in smoke detectors. Read More »