It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life and forget to take the time to do necessary monthly home maintenance tasks. Take the time to do these tasks on a regular basis to keep your home running efficiently and prevent costly repairs down the road, not to mention how they will keep and increase your home value!
Here are a few tips to help you remember to do some basic home maintenance each month:
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors by pressing the test button on each one. If you don't hear the alarm, replace the batteries and test again. If the detector still doesn’t work, replace it completely.
Check your HVAC filters
Check your HVAC filters and replace them if they’re dirty. Dirty filters can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system and increase your energy bills. A good rule of thumb is if you have no pets, you need to change them out every 6 months. With one pet you want to change it every 2 months. With more than one pet or anyone with severe allergies, change the filter every 20-30 days.
Inspect your roof and gutters
Take a few minutes each month to inspect your roof with a pair of binoculars and check for piles of leaves, debris and the beginning growth of algae and lichen which can be very harmful for your shingles. If you observe any damage, such as missing shingles, cracks, or holes, call a professional to repair it as soon as possible.
Clean the dryer vent
Cleaning the dryer vent will prevent lint buildup, which is a fire hazard. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning the vent or hire a professional.
Test your sump pump
It’s important to test your sump pump on a regular basis to make sure it’s working properly. To do this, simply pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and make sure the pump turns on and drains the water.
Clean your dishwasher
Clean your dishwasher with vinegar to get rid of mineral buildup and keep it running smoothly. Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl with 1 cup of white vinegar and place it on the bottom of the empty dishwasher. Set the dishwasher to run on a hot water cycle. The vinegar will break down any remaining bits of food, grease, soap scum, residue, and any other leftover grime.
Clean your refrigerator
Clean the inside of your refrigerator regularly with baking soda and water to keep it smelling fresh. Using a mix of two tablespoons of baking soda and a cup of hot water, wipe down the inside of the fridge. Rinse the mixture off with a damp cloth and dry it with a clean towel. If you notice some tougher, caked-in residue in your fridge, apply the same mixture as above liberally to the problem area with a wet towel.
Check fire extinguishers
Make sure to check your fire extinguishers each month and replace any that are expired or don’t work properly. The best way to check this is to examine the pin and check that it is still intact, also make sure the seal is unbroken. Confirm the pressure gauge or indicator is in the operable range or position, and lift the extinguisher to ensure it is still full.
By taking the time to do these monthly home maintenance tasks, you can keep your home in top condition and avoid costly repairs.
