Brooks & Crowley March 2018

The Importance of Spring Cleaning Your Utility Room Don’t Forget to Clean the Heart of Your Home

appliances because they are out of sight and out of mind, and this can cost a lot in the long run.

Family homes with at least one pet or minor allergies: 2–3 months.

Like all the other rooms in your home, this space needs to be kept clean. Dust, for instance, can be hard on HVAC systems. Over time, it accumulates in the HVAC intake and clogs the air filter, reducing its effectiveness and efficiency. This results in a short lifespan for your system, higher power bills, and a poorly heated or cooled home.

Family homes with multiple pets or allergies: 1–2 months.

In addition to changing the air filter, it’s important to schedule a routine inspection of your home’s HVAC system. This includes an inspection of the appliances themselves and any connecting ducts. Dust, dander, and mold can accumulate in the ducts and spread throughout the home, which can lead to health issues, including respiratory problems. A routine inspection will identify potential problems in your HVAC system. On top of that, you can get these systems professionally cleaned and maintained. These are simple steps that will keep your home’s air systems running smoothly for years to come. Plus, you’ll be ready for the summer months ahead!

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR AIR FILTER?

Laugh Out Loud The utility closet houses your furnace, boiler, water heater, A/C junction, and other similar large appliances. Homeowners often forget about these The start of spring brings everyone’s favorite seasonal chore — spring cleaning! As you dust, vacuum, organize, and declutter, don’t forget about the one room that often gets neglected. This year, give special attention to the utility closet.

Homes with minimal foot traffic (single or double occupancy) and no pets or allergies: 6–12 months.

Family homes (three or more occupants) with no pets or allergies: 3–6 months.

Paleo Asparagus Soup

Ingredients

• • • • •

2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped

• • • • • •

2 tablespoons butter, ghee, or coconut oil

1/2 cup coconut milk 1 teaspoon lemon zest

1.5 ounces pancetta, diced

1 onion, diced

1/4 teaspoon salt

12 ounces asparagus, cut into small pieces

Pepper to taste

2 cups chicken stock

1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

5. Add the parsley, tarragon, coconut milk, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. 6. Using an immersion blender or working in batches and transferring to a blender, puree the soup. 7. Return the soup to the pot and warm thoroughly. Season with more salt and pepper if desired. Garnish with tarragon or parsley.

1. In a large pot, melt the butter, ghee, or oil. 2. Add the onion and pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally until the onion is translucent, about 6–8 minutes. 3. Add the asparagus and stir for 1 minute. 4. Add chicken stock and cover. Simmer on low for 10 minutes or until the asparagus is tender.

Recipe inspired by thrivingonpaleo.com.)

13

Published by The Newsletter Pro • www.newsletterpro.com

Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker