13 Essential Home Maintenance Tasks You’re Ignoring

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Looking after your home is a little bit like looking after a car or a garden, it needs regular maintenance to keep it working smoothly. Life gets busy, however, and while we keep on top of the low hanging fruit like taking out the trash or washing dishes, some important home maintenance tasks tend to fall through the cracks. Of course these overlooked tasks won’t make your brain itch today, but not taking care of them will certainly cause you some serious headaches down the road.

To help keep your home running smoothly without any unwanted surprises, here’s a friendly reminder list.

Check Your Dryer Vent

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Lint is sneaky. Not only does it build up in your dryer’s lint trap, but it also builds up in the vent that leads outside. A clogged dryer vent can reduce efficiency, and it is also a serious fire hazard. At least once a year, check the vent opening outside for lint buildup and if you can, clean out any clogs with a long, flexible brush or hire a professional to do a thorough clean.

Clean Your Refrigerator Coils

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Until your fridge starts struggling to keep things cool, it often remains out of sight and out of mind. Refrigerators accumulate dust and dirt on refrigerator coils, which makes the motor work a lot harder, and the refrigerator also uses more electricity. Unplug the fridge, pull it out, and gently clean the coils with a vacuum or a brush, every six months.

Seal Your Driveway

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Cracks and holes in driveways don’t get much attention, but they can expand quickly. A neglected driveway can become more expensive and extensive. Apply sealant every couple of yeas to prevent cracking and weather damage.

Deep Clean Your Exhaust Fans

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Kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans pull in dust and grease, as well as moisture and cooking smells. The fan blades need to be given a good clean every six months, by taking off the cover. This not only ensures good airflow, but will also prevent buildup which could destroy the fan over time.

Re-Caulk Windows and Doors

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Windows and doors will chip or shrink over time without caulking around them, allowing drafts and moisture in. Every year, walk around your home and re-caulk any places that appear worn. Not only will this save you money on your heating and cooling bills but it will also prevent mold and water damage.

Check for Leaks Under Sinks

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Slow, sneaky leaks tend to happen in the dark corners under sinks, but most people ignore them. Look under your kitchen and bathroom sinks every few months. Also, check for water stains, wetness, and molds. Early catches of leaks can save you from the damage water can cause and the expense of repairs.

Lubricate Door Hinges and Locks

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Squeaky hinges and stiff locks don’t seem like a big deal, but they wear down over time. Every few months, grab a can of WD-40 or silicone spray and spritz those hinges and locks. This quick fix will help keep your doors swinging smoothly and stop rust or lock problems.

Inspect Your Roof

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Weather and sun hit your roof every day, and it’s easy to forget until there’s a leak. Take a few minutes twice a year to give it a quick check. Cracked, loose, or missing shingles and any moss or algae growth are what you should be looking for. If you’re not comfortable with heights, grab a pair of binoculars or have a professional inspect it.

Trim Back Trees and Shrubs

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In a storm, overgrown trees and shrubs can really do a number on your home. Near the house, branches can scratch windows, damage siding or even cause roof problems. Cut back any plants that get too close to the house each spring. Not only does this protect your home, but it also increases curb appeal.

Flush Your Water Heater

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Mineral deposits can build up in your water heater and reduce its efficiency and shorten its life. Keeping the water heater in tip top shape requires flushing it out once a year. You can often drain a few gallons to clear debris. The good news is that this task can be quite easy. Check your water heater manual for simple instructions, or you can find guides online.

Clean Your Gutters

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While clogged gutters might not seem like a big deal, they can cause serious water damage to your home’s foundation, siding and roof. Clear out leaves, twigs and debris every spring and fall. You’ll also want to make sure your downspouts are draining well and not directing water towards the house. It’s far better than having to deal with basement leaks or foundation issues.

Service Your HVAC System

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Year round, your heating and cooling systems work hard, so they deserve some love. Changing filters every 1-3 months makes a huge difference in air quality and efficiency. Have a professional HVAC checkup once a year to make sure things are running as they should. Preventive care will keep your home comfortable and prevent costly repairs.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

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Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are often the unsung heroes of home safety, because they are easily forgotten. Replace the batteries at least once a year, and test each detector monthly. According to Safelincs, if your detectors are over 10 years old, you need to replace the entire unit.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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