Your home offers you so much and asks for relatively little to stay in good enough shape and continue to serve you. Whether you’re a new or long-time homeowner, it’s wise for you to establish a schedule of basic maintenance to ensure everything is in top shape and running smoothly. Here are four types of basic maintenance every homeowner should perform on their home throughout the year. Keeping things clean and working right is the first step toward saving money on major repairs and replacements!
Check the HVAC System
HVAC systems are great. They keep you warm in winter, cool in summer, and perfectly comfortable overall. But they need a little help to keep providing great service. Make sure you’re cleaning or replacing your HVAC system’s filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. Generally, you can’t go wrong checking and cleaning or replacing it every 90 days. Vacuum the vent covers and ensure nothing’s blocking them up so that you get the best airflow. Hose down the outside unit to keep it clear of weeds, leaves, and debris. Lastly, schedule a yearly inspection and maintenance with an HVAC professional for an expert opinion.
Maintain the Plumbing
Generally, plumbing systems last longer than other systems in your home, but they still need periodic inspections every two years to ensure they’re working properly. Plumbing problems are best to catch before they grow too big and you’re up to your ankles in water (or worse)! Having a plumber come in and inspect the pipes is a good step. Have your drain lines routed every year, especially if your property has many trees. The roots can find their way into your pipes, blocking drainage and forcing it back into your home. If you have a septic system, specifically consult a septic company over a plumber to drain it every three to five years.
Clean the Gutters
Generally, clean everything inside, outside, and around your house, but never neglect the gutters. Gutters take in all the rain and snow water that run off your roof and move them away from your foundation. That may not sound like much, but it does a lot to protect your home. Blocked gutters can’t do their job, and all that water can end up in your attic, basement, and walls, damaging your house in numerous ways. Keep gutters free of leaves, branches, and other matter so that the water flows freely.
Power Wash!
The last of the four types of basic maintenance every homeowner should perform is power washing. A good power wash makes your home’s exterior prettier by removing dirt, grime, moss, mildew, and other nastiness. But there’s more to it than that. Power washing your home makes it a healthier place to live. It shoos away insects, mice, and other pests that like things dirty and dingy. It makes the wood, siding, or other material look better and last longer, and that increases your home’s curb appeal as well!