Around 70% of homeowners recognize that they should spend more time on household maintenance, according to a study by the National Association of Home Builders. You’re not alone if you often find yourself falling behind on essential home upkeep tasks. This informative blog post will list 14 key duties that you simply cannot afford to skip when it comes to maintaining your abode.
Service Your HVAC System
You need to put servicing your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system on top of your home improvement checklist. Regular upkeep helps to keep the system running smoothly and can avoid unexpected and inconvenient breakdowns. Get into the habit of getting it serviced before the start of each new season.
Inspect Your Roof
Do not ignore your roof when carrying out household maintenance responsibilities. Water leaks and broken shingles are common problems that could escalate if left unchecked. It is recommended to visually check your roof once or twice a year for warning signs like lost or damaged shingles, rusted flashing, or moss growth.
Clean Out The Gutters
Your gutters may be out of sight but they should never be out of mind. Make sure to clean them out regularly, particularly in the fall after leaves have dropped. This will prevent blockages which can lead to water damage in your home.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
This is one of those tasks that can easily slip down the checklist. Both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are vital for safety in the house. Test them monthly and remember to change their batteries at least once a year.
Filter Replacement
Furnace filters, water filters, air conditioning filters, and even refrigerator filters should be replaced regularly. Dirty or clogged filters can cause your appliances to run less efficiently and could lead to more expensive problems down the line.
Recaulk Bathrooms and Kitchens
Regularly updating the caulk around your sinks, showers, tubs, and counters can prevent water leakage and damage. This chore helps in maintaining a clean appearance while avoiding costly fixes in the long run. Recaulking should ideally be done at least once a year.
Maintain Your Lawn and Garden
Outdoor areas need care too. Regular mowing, weeding, watering, and fertilizing will keep your lawn and garden looking their best. If necessary, hire professionals for larger jobs like tree trimming or pest control.
Pest Control
Regular pest control is non-negotiable when it comes to maintaining healthy living conditions. Bugs, termites, rats, and other pests can not only cause distress but can cause considerable damage to your property and pose health risks.
Clean Your Chimney
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, regular chimney cleaning is critical to prevent creosote build-up which could lead to a chimney fire. It is best to schedule a professional cleaning at least once a year.
Examine Sump Pump
If your home has a basement with a sump pump, it is crucial to conduct regular checks especially prior to wet seasons. A malfunctioning pump could lead to flooding, which is both devastating and expensive to remedy.
Touch up Exterior Paint
Occasionally touching up your exterior paint can not only keep your house looking fresh but it also offers a protective barrier against the elements. Aim for a paint touch-up every few years, based on your local climate conditions.
Flush Water Heater
Draining and flushing your water heater can prolong its life by preventing build-up of sediment that can cause the unit to work harder than it should. It is recommended to perform this task annually.
Keep Your Attic Insulated
A properly insulated attic helps in maintaining comfortable temperatures within your home by reducing energy loss. Check thickness levels once a year and add more insulation if required. This will not only conserve energy but could also lower your utility bills.
Maintain Drains
Regularly check and maintain your drains to prevent clogged sinks and bathtubs. Simple preventative measures such as running hot water through the sinks after use and avoiding dumping grease can keep your drains running smoothly.
Maintenance Wrap Up
Your home is possibly your biggest financial investment, and as such, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in good shape. By observing these essential household upkeep duties, you can avoid costly repairs, enjoy a comfortable living environment, and maintain your property value for years to come.
