Maintaining a home can be a daunting task, especially when that home is one of your most significant investments. New challenges emerge with every change in season, often leaving homeowners scrambling to repair every leaky faucet before the next thing breaks. Get ahead of pesky costly repairs with these 25 maintenance tips you don’t want to miss.
Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Check your CO and smoke detectors on a monthly basis to ensure they are working correctly, and replace batteries when needed.
Identify Electrical Hazards
Inspect your home for any hidden electrical hazards. These could include but are not limited to worn-down electric cords, multiple appliances plugged into a single switch, and extension cords used outside in place of proper outdoor wiring.
Light Bulb Safety
Consider switching to LED bulbs to save money on electric bills. Be sure that the bulbs in your lights match what is safe for the lamp. There should be a sticker that indicates the maximum wattage for the light bulb.
Service Your HVAC
Have your HVAC systems checked by a professional once a year. Otherwise, remember to clean and replace filters, clean drain lines, and properly maintain your HVAC system throughout the year.
Dryer Lint Trap
Empty the lint trap of your clothes dryer, and use a vacuum to remove any leftover lint. Wash the lint screen with warm water and return it to the dryer.
Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals need to be cleaned regularly to stay functional. Scrub around the sink and deep clean your disposal; usually, a DIY mixture of salt and ice will do the trick!
Water Heater Check
Examine the pressure relief valve of your water heater and backflush if necessary.
Kitchen/Bathroom Leaks
Check for leaks under any sinks, specifically in your kitchen and bathrooms. A quick adjustment will save you costly repairs in the future!
Water Softener
A faulty water softener can leave your dishes looking cloudy and require excessive amounts of soap to clean. Check your water softener every year and replenish salt if necessary.
Hardwood Floors
Properly clean your floors using hardwood cleaners with a cloth and a specialized vacuum attachment that won’t scratch the floors.
Update Your Thermostat
Consider installing an updated thermostat. Energy-efficient thermostats can be an easy transition and add value to your home.
Sparkling Clean Grout
Clean your grout, and then clean it again. Sparkling clean grout lines will set your home apart from the rest.
Refrigerator Upkeep
Reduce the energy consumption of your refrigerator by consistently cleaning the coils, checking the door seal, and cleaning the exterior.
Recharge Fire Extinguishers
An expired fire extinguisher is any homeowner’s worst nightmare. Routinely inspect and recharge all fire extinguishers in your home.
Eliminate Drafts
Ensure your doors and windows are properly sealed by checking for drafts. Repair and replace if necessary.
Window Screens
Fixing your own damaged window screens can save time and money. Identify and repair any screens that aren’t up to snuff.
Fences and Gates
Walk your entire property to check and repair any broken fences and gates.
Clean Exterior Doors
Your doors and windows will be exposed to the elements throughout the year. Take the time to clean the exterior of your doors and windows to bring a shine to your home.
Oil Garage Door
Keep your garage door operating smoothly by consistently oiling the opener and chain, garage door, and all hinges.
Outdoor Lighting
Check and thoroughly clean any outdoor light fixtures. Ensure you properly polish any lights that require it.
Pool Refresh
If you have a pool, refresh your pool filter cartridge, make minor repairs, and add a dose of chlorine.
Driveway Sealant
Repair any cracks and smooth the surface of your driveway with sealant. Immediately upscale your property and increase curb appeal.
Roof Repairs
Remember to look up. Inspect your roof for leaks, damages, and debris. Clean the gutters, check the insulation and trim any foliage away from the house.
Exterior Pest Check
Pests have a sneaky way of finding the perfect hiding place and threatening your home. Do a walkthrough of your home’s exterior to identify any pests.
Service Lawn Equipment
Keep any lawn tools and equipment functional by consistently testing and cleaning them. If you have a lawnmower, make sure you service it every year.
Performing home maintenance tasks on your Saturday might not always seem appealing, but it is essential. With this checklist, you’ll save money, avoid unexpected repairs, and keep your home sparkling all year long.
If you’re looking for more home maintenance tips or information about prime Austin real estate, contact us here. As always, call (512) 828-7074 or email us at [email protected] with any questions!
