Home maintenance is a mandatory part of homeownership that is not often appropriately completed. Every dollar spent prevents up to $100 or more on repair costs. However, proper home maintenance may be a daunting task. But by being proactive than reactive, you can make sure that your home runs smoothly throughout the years and minimize the number of repairs and claims you make over time.
Keep reading to get a better grasp of what your home needs and what you can do about it.
Fix Dead Power Outlets
Are all your power outlets at home working? If you find that some of your power outlets are dead, we recommend calling a professional. Your power outlets can stop working for various reasons.
Check your GFCI Outlets. These are equipped with “test” and “reset” buttons that can help troubleshoot your outlets. Moreover, these are required, particularly in areas at risk of shock or electrical hazards such as your bathroom and kitchen. When GFCI “pops,” it will cause the outlets to stop working. When you press reset, or when the “test” button doesn’t pop out when you press it, then there’s a chance that it isn’t receiving any power. If the “reset” button trips every time you press it, then there may be a dangerous running current through the circuit. Either way, this problem will require additional electrical testing that only a licensed electrician can handle.
Clean Exhaust Fans to Prevent Mold
Exhaust fans will need to be cleaned occasionally to do their job effectively and prevent the risk of growing mold in your home. At least once a year, you need to remove your kitchen and exhaust fans to clean it out and get rid of any possible mold build up in them.
Change the Direction of Your Ceiling Fans
You should change your ceiling fans’ rotation twice a year to increase its energy efficiency as it puts less strain on your heating and cooling systems. When the ceiling fans are running correctly in the winter, it can save you at least 10% of your heating bill. When you change your fan’s direction, you change the way the air moves; thus, effectively heating or cooling the room.
Rotate ceiling funds during summer to push cold air down. On most fans, it can be done using a directional switch on the motor. To turn it the other direction, reverse the switch.
Check your Downspout
Take a look around the perimeter of your home to check for downspouts that have become detached from your home. When the downspout has been detached or faulty, water will not be directed away from your home, which can lead to foundation issues. This minor fix can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Look for Early Signs of Foundation Problems
Cracks at the foundation of your home can cause a lot of money to get repaired. Identify the cracks in your home’s wall, floors, and ceilings to assess the potential foundation damage. When there are large cracks, it needs to be inspected and addressed by your structural engineer.
Check your Water Bill to Know if There are Leaks
It may be hard to detect a water leak until a stain is visible. One of the best ways to check for leaks is by keeping track of your bill. Check your water bill every month and compare your consumption. If your consumption is higher than average, you might want to seek a professional’s help to inspect and fix water leaks.
Change your HVAC Filters
Regular changing of your HVAC Filters can prolong your A/C unit’s life, and it makes it work more efficiently; thus, maintaining better air quality in your home. Call your HVAC technician to schedule the system’s bi-annual checkup and servicing. Your technician should check the ductwork for signs of damage, clean the A/C compressor, and service the furnace. Cleaning and inspecting your HVAC systems cause less than replacing it altogether.
Home maintenance may seem like a daunting task, but remember that you don’t have to do it all in a day. The key is not to wait until there is an issue for you to do something. It can save you a lot in repairs and replacement costs that could have been prevented in the first place.
