Many of these tasks are not overly complex, nor do they consume much time or create significant mess. Yet, when it comes to certain home maintenance duties, any excuse suffices when we’re reluctant to tackle them.
Experts in Your Home is well aware of these tasks, primarily because we’ve witnessed the repercussions of neglect. In essence, we’ve seen malfunctions and breakdowns, homeowners grappling with floods and fires, and the frustration as homeowners face hefty repair bills – all of which could have been avoided had they simply addressed these 10 home maintenance duties promptly:
10 Home Maintenance Duties to Address
Task No. 1: Regularly inspect your fire extinguisher Why it’s crucial: An examination should encompass accessibility (what use is an extinguisher if it’s inaccessible?), pressure, and condition. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors provides a comprehensive checklist.
Task No. 2: Monthly battery checks and testing of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors Why it’s imperative: Despite the spring and fall reminders, when it comes to safety, one can never be too cautious.
Task No. 3: Monthly inspection of furnace and air conditioner filters Why it’s essential: A clean filter ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently and prolongs its lifespan. A clogged filter can even cause system shutdowns.
Task No. 4: Monthly plumbing leak inspections Why it’s critical: Plumbing leaks worsen over time and often lead to costly repairs. Regularly checking all water sources – sinks, faucets, tubs, showers, and toilets – helps prevent disasters.
Task No. 5: Biannual cleaning of dryer vents Why it’s vital: It poses a significant fire hazard, which worsens with blockages.
Task No. 6: Biannual vacuuming of refrigerator coils Why it’s crucial: Refrigerators are energy-intensive appliances, constituting a substantial portion of utility bills. However, maintaining their efficiency can save over $100 annually. Though moving the appliance and using a refrigerator brush may seem inconvenient, the savings outweigh the hassle.
Task No. 7: Biannual gutter cleaning Why it’s imperative: Despite being messy, clogged gutters overflow and can lead to home damage through roofs, walls, or foundations. Debris also attracts birds and rodents, particularly in heavily wooded areas.
Task No. 8: Biannual clearing of window wells Why it’s essential: Similar to clogged gutters, blocked window wells can cause seepage and flooding.
Task No. 9: Annual flushing of water heaters Why it’s crucial: Removing sediment enhances the water heater’s efficiency, extends its lifespan, and reduces rumbling noises during operation.
Task No. 10: Annual repair of window screens Why it’s necessary: Even small holes can invite insects into your home, while damaged screens detract from aesthetics. Smaller holes can be patched, while larger ones typically require new fabric or replacement screens.