Basic Home Maintenance Tips Everyone Should Know

Owning a home for any amount of time is a big responsibility. Similar to owning a car, your home needs love and care. One way to show your love is through regular maintenance.

There are home maintenance procedures that require consulting and hiring a professional. For instance, you need to hire an electrician to see if you have enough outlets for a new home theater system. On the other hand, some activities you can do by yourself.

The following are a few home maintenance tips to help you keep your house running smoothly throughout the year. It is important to note that some of these activities are better performed during certain seasons; when the weather is more permitting for the task at hand.

Incorporating seasonal home maintenance into your routine ensures that your home is prepared for the changing weather conditions throughout the year.

Regular home maintenance is essential to preserving the value and integrity of your home. Neglecting it can lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and even health risks. By performing routine maintenance tasks, you can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems, reduce energy consumption, and ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.

A well-maintained home also increases its resale value and appeal to potential buyers. Regular upkeep is not just about aesthetics; it’s about safeguarding your investment and avoiding costly repairs down the line.

To stay on top of home maintenance, it’s essential to have a monthly checklist. Here are some tasks to include:

Most clothes dryers in the US are connected to a dryer vent. If you are part of the majority, cleaning this vent is essential to keep it running smoothly.

A layer of lint is added to your vent every time you use the dryer, making it less efficient the more you use it.

The more lint that collects in your dryer vent, the longer it takes to remove the moisture from your clothes after a wash. On top of that, the accumulation can turn your dryer and vent into fire hazards.

Remove the lint from your vents to reduce the chances of a house fire. You can do this by removing the dryer vent and cleaning that section. There are cleaning kits designed specifically for this task. However, if you don’t have access to one, a vacuum can work just as well.

Smoke alarms are an essential part of any home. They can alert you if smoke or fire is detected. Experts recommend having at least one smoke alarm in each room and one outside each sleeping area.

In alarms with replaceable batteries, remember to replace the batteries at least once a year. On the other hand, there is no need to change the batteries on a 10-year alarm as you will need to replace the entire unit in the 10th year.

Some models may beep to alert you that the battery is running low. However, you shouldn’t wait for this to happen. For your peace of mind, replace the battery or, in the case of 10-year alarms, the entire unit itself. Making it a routine ensures your alarms work when the time comes.

Test your alarms at least once a month. Typically, you can do this by pressing the test button for a few seconds or until you hear a sharp sound. You may need to inform the other people in your household when you plan to test the alarm. This way, you avoid frightening anyone in your home.

In addition to smoke detectors, it is essential to regularly check your fire extinguishers to ensure they are accessible and in good working condition. Inspect the extinguisher for visible signs of wear, check the pressure gauge, and confirm that it’s not past its expiration date.

Mice love to build nests in warm areas, such as the air conditioning unit or near electrical wiring. They may even start chewing on wires, gnaw on furniture, and leave urine and droppings all over your home.

Check for evidence of nesting and damage. If you have an infestation, you can hire exterminators to handle the situation. However, you will also need to address the reasons for the infestation.

Seal up any cracks or gaps you find before the winter season arrives. Rodent activity tends to speed up when temperatures drop, so it’s worth making your house a less attractive option by autumn at the latest. Also, remember to remove any debris or food particles that can attract them into your home.

A sump pump is a common feature in many homes. This component has several functions. Its main purpose is to protect your basement from flooding and the foundation from damage due to a rainstorm.

Your sump pump is also useful during a heavy snowstorm. Once the snow starts melting, the sump pump removes the water away from your basement.

When it comes to your sump pump, it is advised that you clean and test it at least twice a year. A quick test can be performed by following these simple steps:

• Remove any debris blocking the outside pipe.
• Unplug your sump pump, then plug it back in to restart it.
• Once you hear it running, pour some liquid into the crock area.
• Check the pump outside to see if it has been effective in removing the water.

Nobody likes to clean gutters, but the importance of this task cannot be understated. Leaves and branches can clog your gutters, causing them to break. The obstruction can become a bigger problem during the cold winter months when the water turns into ice. You may end up paying more to fix your entire roof if your gutters get clogged.

Much like cleaning your vents, there are special cleaning tools you can buy and use for your gutters. A cheaper alternative is buying a pair of long gloves, a small shovel or scooping tool, a ladder, and a large garbage bag.

Once you have these tools, use your ladder to access the gutter. Use your shovel to scoop the dirt and dump the debris into the plastic bag. Lastly, grab a garden hose and flush away any remaining debris.

The part of your doors and windows that faces the outdoors is more prone to damage from the elements. Over time, it can wear away the seals surrounding the frames of your openings.

Damaged seals are typically small, but even a minute crack can make a significant impact on your HVAC system. Cracks can force your heater or air conditioning systems to work harder to maintain the temperature. Close these gaps yourself, and you can save on electricity costs.

Owning your own home is a major accomplishment. However, it comes with a lot of responsibility. We have compiled a few basic maintenance tasks that you can do yourself. If you have any questions or would like some assistance, get in touch with our team of licensed electricians today.

Your home’s electrical system and appliances require regular maintenance to ensure safety and efficiency. Here are some tips:

• Check for worn or damaged cords and outlets: This can prevent electrical fires and ensure the safety of your home.
• Inspect your home’s appliances, including your refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher: Regular maintenance can extend their lifespan and improve efficiency.
• Check your circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure it’s functioning properly: This can prevent electrical issues and ensure a steady power supply.
• Consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in your kitchen and bathroom: GFCIs can prevent electrical shocks in areas prone to moisture.
• Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Regular testing ensures these devices are ready to alert you in case of an emergency.

To avoid major electrical problems and preserve the safety of you and your family, hire a licensed electrical technician to carry out your electric home maintenance properly.

Seasonal maintenance is essential to prepare your home for changing weather conditions. Here are some tasks to include in your seasonal maintenance checklist:

• Spring: Clean your gutters, inspect your roof, and check your air conditioning system. This prepares your home for the warmer months and prevents water damage from spring rains.
• Summer: Inspect your HVAC system, check for signs of pest infestation, and maintain your lawn equipment. This ensures your home stays cool and pest-free during the hot months.
• Fall: Clean your gutters, inspect your roof, and prepare your home for winter. This helps in preventing ice dams and ensures your home is ready for the cold weather.
• Winter: Inspect your plumbing system, check for drafts, and maintain your heating system. This prevents frozen pipes and ensures your home stays warm and energy-efficient.

By following these home maintenance tips, you can prevent costly repairs, ensure a safe and comfortable living environment, and maintain your home’s value and integrity. Regular upkeep is key to a well-functioning home, and a comprehensive home maintenance checklist can help you stay organized and proactive.

And if you need professional help, Ways Electric has licensed technicians to carry out electrical installations and maintenance in your home. Contact us!