As a homeowner, staying on top of maintenance is important to avoid costly repairs later on. While some tasks are easy to remember, others are often overlooked. To help keep your home in tip-top shape, we’ve put together a list of five maintenance tips that will save you money in the long run. So, whether you’re a first-time homeowner or have been in your home for years, be sure to add these tasks to your to-do list.
1. Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Your roof is one of the most important components of your home, so it’s important to inspect it regularly for any damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracks or holes, rust spots on metal flashing, and any other signs of wear and tear. These can all lead to leaks, which can cause serious damage to your home if left unrepaired. If you spot any issues, be sure to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If you don’t feel comfortable inspecting your roof yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you. They’ll be able to spot any potential problems and make repairs before they become serious. Regular roof maintenance will not only save you money on repairs, but it will also extend the life of your roof.
2. Clean Your Drains
Clogged drains are not only a nuisance, but they can also lead to serious problems if left unaddressed. When water is unable to drain properly, it can back up and cause sewage to leak into your home. This can lead to costly repairs and even pose a health hazard to you and your family. While there are many store-bought drain cleaners available, it’s better to avoid them as they can damage your pipes.
Instead, try using a plunger or a drain snake to clear the clog. If these don’t work, you may need to call a professional to help clear the blockage. According to experts, your drains should be cleaned every 18-22 months to prevent clogs and other problems.
3. Pump and Clean Your Septic Tank
If your home has a septic tank, it’s important to have it pumped and cleaned regularly. This will prevent the build-up of sludge and scum, leading to problems with your septic system. Most experts recommend having your septic tank pumped every three to five years, but this may vary depending on the size of your tank and the number of people in your household.
Pumping and cleaning your septic tank is not a do-it-yourself job, so you’ll need to hire a professional to do it for you. They’ll have the necessary equipment to safely and effectively clean your tank. Not to mention, they’ll be able to dispose of the waste properly, so you don’t have to worry about it.
4. Change Your HVAC Filter
Your filter is responsible for keeping your air conditioner and furnace running smoothly. It helps remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles from the air, which can improve your indoor air quality and prevent allergies. This is important because, according to the EPA, indoor air quality may be as much as five times worse than outdoor levels, and in some buildings, it can be up to 100 times higher. This makes poor indoor air quality one of the top five environmental hazards the general public faces.
While it’s important to change your filter regularly, how often you need to do so will depend on the type of filter you have and the level of air pollution in your area. For most people, changing their filter every three months is sufficient. However, if you live in an area with high levels of air pollution or if someone in your household has allergies, you may need to change it more often.
5. Inspect Your Gutters
Your gutters are responsible for channeling water away from your home, so keeping them in good condition is important. Over time, leaves and other debris can build up in your gutters, which can cause them to become clogged. When this happens, water cannot drain properly and may leak into your home, causing serious damage. To avoid this, be sure to inspect your gutters regularly and remove any debris that has built up.
Home maintenance is important for many reasons. Not only does it help keep your home in good condition, but it can also save you money on repairs. By following the tips above, you can avoid costly problems and extend the life of your home.