15 Common Maintenance Mistakes That Lead to Expensive Repairs

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Home and vehicle maintenance often seem like tasks that we can postpone until ‘tomorrow.’ After all, if there’s nothing visibly broken, why fix it? Unfortunately, carrying that mindset can cost you. Skipping annual doctor check ups is similar to neglecting basic maintenance as minor issues can snowball into huge repair bills.

Maintenance may be thought of as a means of protecting your wallet. A few minutes of your attention today will save you hours of hassle and hundreds — or thousands — of dollars tomorrow. Small oversights in the way we care for our homes, or how we look after our vehicles, are often more headache inducing than you might think. Here are some common mistakes you want to avoid.

Not Changing Air Filters Regularly

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In the big picture, an air filter may not seem like much, but don’t ignore it or you will soon find yourself in big trouble. A clogged filter forces your HVAC system to work harder, which can mean high energy bills and expensive repairs, or even premature replacement. It’s recommended by the Department of Energy to change filters every 1-2 months to keep the system running smoothly. This procrastination isn’t dusty; it’s pricey.

Skipping Oil Changes

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Skipping oil changes is like skipping breakfast for your car—it’s important. Dirty old oil lowers engine efficiency and may wreak permanent engine damage. You can say that your car’s engine is its heart and clean oil is the lifeblood. There’s not much you can do to keep that heart healthy, but a little maintenance goes a long way.

Ignoring Small Roof Leaks

A small roof leak may not seem like a big deal when it’s pouring lightly outside, but over time that slow drip will be a disaster. The problem is that water damage is sneaky and results in mold, structural rot, and even ceiling collapse.

Not Remembering to Flush the Water Heater

Out of sight, out of mind. That’s often the case with water heaters. However, sediment build up over time, making the appliance less efficient and perhaps increasing the amount of time you have to use it. Flushing your water heater annually is a simple process that takes less than an hour—experts recommend it and it can save you a costly replacement in the future.

Neglecting Gutters

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Cleaning gutters probably isn’t any one’s favorite weekend activity, but if you ignore them they can clog up drains, lead to ice dams, and even foundation damage. In time, debris accumulates and water overflows, which can even end up seeping in through your home. It’s the old ‘pay now or pay more later’ scenario.

Disregarding Brake Noises

A squeaky brake isn’t just annoying, it is danger waiting to happen. The damage to the rotor is significantly more expensive to fix if the brake pads are worn. Catching brake problems early will save you money in repair costs. When your car talks, listen.

Ignoring Appliance Maintenance

We also forget that a lot of work is put in by home appliances every day – they also need TLC. For example, if the refrigerator coils aren’t cleaned, this can strain the motor and reduce efficiency. In addition to extending the life of your appliance, you get to save some serious replacement dollars.

Incorrect Cleaning Products

Not every cleaner is worth it. The wrong solution can void warranties on appliances or fixtures and the wrong combination of chemicals can erode surfaces. Avoid costly replacements — or awkward conversations with a warranty rep — by reading the labels and following recommendations.

Letting Drains Clog

While a slow drain may not seem pressing, failing to take care of it could lead to a full blown plumbing disaster. Over time hair, grease and debris will build up and cause expensive pipe damage or backups. For just some change, a simple drain snake can prevent a problem that could otherwise cost hundreds.

Postponing Tire Rotations

Like shoes, tires wear unevenly if not properly cared for. Skipping tire rotations not only shortens the lifespan of your tires, but compromises safety too. According to Automotivedoctor.co, the average tire life is extended by routine rotations. And it’s cheaper than replacing all four prematurely, too.

Ignoring Chimney Inspections

If you do use your fireplace, yearly inspections of your chimney are not an option. Too much creosote buildup raises the risk of a chimney fire and blockages can contribute to carbon monoxide exposure. The cost—and risk—of inspections is far cheaper than tackling the aftermath of a fire or a health scare.

Neglecting Landscaping

Trees and shrubs can grow out of control, and though they may not seem harmful, they can cause problems for your home’s foundation, siding, or roof. Overhanging branches will damage shingles during storms, and roots will crack pipes. Trimming a little now is much better than a world of hurt later.

Not Checking Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

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smoke detectors are silent heroes until they fail. It’s easy to forget to test or replace batteries and be vulnerable during emergencies. It’s recommended by experts that they be tested monthly and the batteries replaced at least once a year. It’s literally a five minute task that can save lives.

Plants Overwatered or Underwatered

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Overgrowth isn’t the only landscaping mistake that can be made. Underwatering your plants can impact their health, and overwatering plants can destroy your yard’s drainage. Getting the balance right is good for your garden, and your wallet, when it comes to costly replanting or soil fixes.

Not Doing Routine Pool Maintenance

If you’re a pool owner, you know you can’t skip weekly maintenance, or disaster’s lurking. All of this can lead to neglected pools becoming algae ridden, damaging filters and even requiring chemical overhauls, all of which are expensive problems. A quick weekly cleaning will save you the stress and money of a major repair project.

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