6 Home Maintenance Tasks You Shouldn’t Overlook

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Keeping up with home maintenance isn’t easy, but it’s an important part of keeping your house in good condition. Regular maintenance helps your home last longer and helps you avoid costly repair jobs. 

Some home maintenance tasks are easily overlooked because they’re not visible. Typically these tasks aren’t urgent, so it’s easy to put them off. But procrastinating on maintenance tasks will cost you in the long run. You’ll end up having a bigger problem to fix and have to spend money on repairs. To help you remember the maintenance tasks you need to take care of and when to do them, you should create a thorough checklist of tasks to complete throughout the year. Be sure to include everything so you don’t forget an important task. If you’re not sure what to include, here are a few common home maintenance tasks that are often overlooked.

1. Changing air filters.

Air filters need to be changed regularly to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. This is an easy task that can be done in just a few minutes, but it’s often forgotten. Most air filters need to be changed at least every few months, but sometimes more if you have allergies or pets. This task is important not only to keep your home in good condition but also for your health. In some areas, it’s also necessary to regularly schedule air duct cleaning services.

2. Cleaning gutters and downspouts.

Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water damage to your home, so it’s important to keep them clean. Clear out any debris and check if repairs are needed. Gutters and downspouts are designed to allow water to flow away from your house, without leaking or spilling over. This can be a dirty and difficult job, but it’s essential to do it at least once a year, preferably before winter rains start. If you’re not up for the task, you can hire someone to do the job.

3. Checking for leaks.

Leaks can be hard to spot, but they can cause major damage over time. A leaky faucet is usually noticeable, but leaky pipes can go unnoticed, and guest bathrooms or areas that aren’t used as often are easy to overlook. If left for too long, a leak can cause serious water damage and you’ll be stuck with a hefty repair bill. That’s why it’s important to regularly check all faucets and pipes for leaks, and fix them as soon as you find them. 

4. Inspecting the roof.

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your house, so it’s important to keep an eye on it. Look for missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or any other signs of wear and tear. Clean off any debris, and make sure your roof is in good condition. Regular inspections will help you avoid a leaky roof, which can cause water damage in other parts of your home. Getting on top of a roof can be dangerous, so make sure you take safety precautions or hire a professional to take care of the inspection.

5. Cleaning dryer vents.

Lint buildup in dryer vents can be a fire hazard, so it’s important to clean them out regularly. Excess lint, pests, and other things can cause a dryer vent backup. You’ll have to remove the vent and clean it with a vacuum or a special cleaning kit. This is a task that is often overlooked, but it’s easy to do and can save you from a potential disaster.

6. Draining the water heater.

Water heaters need to be drained once a year to avoid problems. Sediment can collect in your water heater over time, and if you don’t drain it, it can damage your water heater and cause it to leak. It’s a simple task but can help add to the life of your water heater, so don’t forget it.

By keeping these tasks in mind and doing them on a regular basis, you can keep your home in good condition and prevent major problems from occurring. Expensive repairs and broken appliances are a hassle, and preventative maintenance will help you avoid them. Changing your air filters keeps your air conditioning running optimally and is good for your respiratory health. Cleaning your gutters is essential to avoid water damage. Checking for leaks will help you to catch a small problem before it turns into a more serious issue. Regularly inspecting your roof will help you to avoid a leaky roof and other problems. Cleaning your dryer vents is a simple task, but it’s important as vent blockages can cause house fires. And draining your water heater will clear out any sediment and extend its life. If you don’t have a maintenance checklist for your home, start working on one, and be sure to include the tasks mentioned above.