A Comprehensive Guide to Year-Round Home Maintenance for a Smooth-Running Property
Navigating a home maintenance checklist may not be the most exciting way to spend your Saturday, as nobody ever says, “I can’t wait to flush out the hot water heater today.” However, when it comes to your biggest investment, your home, proper maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs. At Arcadian Realtors and Business Solutions, we understand that home maintenance can seem overwhelming, particularly for first-time homeowners who are accustomed to their landlords handling these tasks. But fear not, it doesn’t have to be daunting.
We recommend breaking down your home maintenance into manageable tasks. Consider completing a set of small chores each month and tackling other tasks based on the season. By following this natural pattern throughout the year and staying on top of the little things, you can ensure that your house runs smoothly.
To assist you in staying organized, we have prepared a comprehensive Home Maintenance Checklist PDF that you can easily reference throughout the year. Hang it on your fridge or keep it in an easily accessible spot to help you stay on top of your maintenance tasks.
Here are some monthly to-do items that you should consider:
1. Clean your furnace filter: Regularly cleaning or replacing your furnace filter helps improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and prevents costly repairs.
2. Vacuum heat registers and vents: Removing dirt and debris from your heat registers ensures proper airflow and reduces strain on your HVAC system.
3. Test smoke alarms and fire extinguishers: Your home’s safety is of utmost importance, so it’s essential to ensure that your smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are in good working condition.
4. Inspect electrical cords for wear: Check electrical cords for any signs of damage, such as cracks or worn-out rubber coating, as these can pose fire hazards.
5. Clean the garbage disposal: Keep your garbage disposal in top shape by grinding ice cubes and flushing it with hot water and baking soda to remove any built-up food residue.
6. Clean faucet aerators and showerheads: Mineral deposits from tap water can accumulate in aerators and showerheads, causing reduced water flow. Soak them overnight in vinegar and scrub with an old toothbrush to restore optimal performance.
7. Inspect the outside of your home: Regularly check for any signs of damage or issues such as loose roof shingles, damaged siding, cracked bricks, driveway or sidewalk cracks, pests, or overgrown trees and shrubs. If you notice any problems, it’s best to call a professional to address them promptly.
In addition to the monthly tasks, there are specific maintenance items to focus on during each season.
Here are some highlights for spring, summer, fall, and winter: Spring:
● Inspect trees for any signs of disease or dead branches and consult a certified arborist ifnecessary.
● Clean gutters to prevent water damage and leaks.
● Freshen the exterior paint to protect against rain and high temperatures.
● Schedule an HVAC checkup and service.
● Wash the house’s exterior to remove grime and maintain its appearance.Summer:
● Ensure plants and foliage receive sufficient water.
● Check and repair sprinkler systems for optimal performance.
● Oil the garage door opener and hinges.
● Inspect toilets, dishwasher, and plumbing for leaks.
● Prune trees and shrubs for their health and appearance.
● Seal tile grout to prevent water damage.Fall:
● Fertilize your garden before winter arrives.
● Clean gutters thoroughly, as they accumulate leaves during this season.
● Call a chimney sweep for an inspection and cleaning.
● Schedule an HVAC service for your furnace and ductwork.
● Clean the dryer vent to prevent fire hazards.
● Seal air leaks around the house to maintain energy efficiency.Winter:
● Cover your air conditioning unit to protect it from the elements.
● Clean refrigerator and freezer coils for optimal performance.
● Inspect the roof, gutters, and downspouts after storms, as winter can be particularly hars onyour home.
● Monitor your pipes closely and take extra precautions to prevent freezing, such as letting afaucet drip on cold nights and keeping the thermostat set to a minimum of 55 degrees whenyou’re away.
Remember, maintaining your home is an ongoing process, and our team at Arcadian Realtors and Business Solutions is here to assist you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy home maintenance!