Running a household is difficult, no one will argue that. Between caring for your family, paying bills, and the endless amount of chores it’s no wonder some things fall through the cracks. For seasoned and first-time homeowners, it can be overwhelming to remember all that needs to be done to keep your home running.
To prevent costly home disasters and future headaches, make sure to keep these 7 often-overlooked home care projects in mind.
1. Clean Out Your Gutters
Set a seasonal reminder to clear the gunk from your gutter system. Built-up debris in the gutter trough can cause overflow that damages your home’s paint job. On the other hand, a warped drainage spout paves the way for costly water damage to your home’s foundation. The older the gutter system is, the more maintenance required upgrading your home gutters may save you time (and money!) in the long-run.
2. Clear Your Dryer Vent
No, not the interior one you empty after each wash, but the exterior vent! This is crucial for preventing household fires and for making sure your dryer has a long, happy life. Cleaning the outside ventilation system is a once a year job, but if you notice it’s taking longer for the clothes to dry, it couldn’t hurt to check out.
3. Close Up Cracks
If you’re not a fan of small insects, breezy drafts, or mold it’s vital to make sure you’re sealing openings to the outside. Most fractures are around the doors and windows of your home, but don’t neglect to check your attic, crawlspace, or basement either. Thankfully, between spray foam and weatherstrips, there are plenty of ways to secure your household.
4. Flush Your Water Heater
Dirt and grime can build up on the bottom of your home’s water heater, clogging your pipes and decreasing efficiency. To keep your water hot, you’ll want to drain the heater and clear sediment collecting at the bottom. It’s an easy task you’ll know is done once the draining water runs clear. You also only have to do this about once a year!
5. Dust Your Refrigerator Coils
On the bottom of your fridge, there are coils used to keep its temperature in check. Pet hair, dirt, and dust make a happy home in this spot, so twice a year you’ll want to thoroughly clean the area. If left unattended, your fridge has to work harder to keep your food items cool, ultimately shortening its lifespan (and potentially spoiling groceries).
6. Change Your Air Filters
It’s recommended to change your HVAC filters every three months. Changing the home air filter not only helps with air quality but also saves you money on your electricity bill. Replacing a clogged filter helps your whole HVAC system run better, so if you’re finding yourself still sweating while the AC is supposedly blasting, you should check if your house’s air filter needs replacing.
7. Inspect Your Roof
Damaged roofing can lead to pesky leaks, making your home susceptible to water damage. You’ll want to be on the lookout for missing, loose, or curled shingles. Check any crawlspace for leaks as well. Try giving your roof an inspection seasonally or after a storm. Leave getting on the roof itself to the professionals, however. Only inspect from the ground using binoculars or from the safety of a ladder.
Conclusion
It’s easy to fall into the trap of out of sight, out of mind with household maintenance. To simplify your busy life, be sure to mark your calendars with these 7 easy (but overlooked) ways to upkeep your home.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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