We provide this free financial resource to visitors of the Community Room of SeniorSSuperStoreS in an effort to keep baby boomers, seniors and the elderly informed of matters that can affect their lifestyle.

A new year, time to make a resolution for your home as well as for yourself. Proper upkeep of your home is essential to its longevity. We've compiled the following checklist of projects that you should do annually:

** Shut Off Valves:
Review the location of all of the shutoff valves with all your family members so you'll be prepared for emergencies.
* Gas Shutoff Valve:
Identify the location and show family members how to shut it off.

**Electrical Panel/Breaker Box:
Identify the location and show the entire family how to shut off the main breaker in an emergency, or flip any circuits back on after an overload. If this happens often, consider hiring an electrician to upgrade your panel or wiring. Remember, newer appliances can put a strain on an older home's wiring.

**Central Heating and Cooling Systems:
*Gas-fired, Forced-air:
Hire a pro to inspect the thermostat, electrical components and controls, check the heat exchanger, flue, ducts, air flow and air fuel mixture, adjust the burner and oil the motor and circulating fan. Arrange for service calls before the start of heating and cooling season to get better attention and have more flexibility when scheduling appointments.
* Heat Pump:
Schedule an annual service call to have a certified pro to inspect the wiring, check belts and replace if needed, and oil the moving parts.
* Oil-fired Boilers:
Hire a pro for annual maintenance including flue cleaning, a fuel-filter change, cleaning & adjustment of the jets.

** Fireplaces and Chimneys:
Have your wood burning fireplaces & stoves inspected annually, cleaned and repaired as required to prevent chimney fires, carbon monoxide poisoning and mortar and flashing failure. Water leaks can also cause your mortar to deteriorate prematurely. Consider installing a chimney cap to protect your chimney from water, debris, and critters.

** Clean Carpeting, Upholstery & Draperies:
Have your carpets, upholstery and draperies cleaned regularly, once every 12 to 18 months, to remove the dirt and grit that can wear them out prematurely. You should also have carpets cleaned after any event such as remodeling or holiday parties and eliminate stains as quickly as possible.

** Appliances:
Inspect appliance hoses and ventilation according to owners' manuals. Hire a service professional if it is necessary to replace them. Vacuum the coils behind your refrigerator and freezer (found behind or under the appliance) to increase energy efficiency.

** Garage Doors:
Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks, tighten screws. If any more serious repairs are required, contact a garage door pro.