Moving into a new home is an exciting experience, one that usually doesn’t involve the thought of home maintenance. As you begin to settle in, the challenges of upkeep can become overwhelming if you don’t plan for them properly.
Just like the oil in your car needs to be changed if you want it to run like it should, the smaller details of your home also need to be attended to before they turn into costly repairs. So, how can you stay smart about home maintenance? Consider this your ultimate guide.
It’s The Little Things That Matter
One of the most overlooked areas in any home is the laundry room. However, this room can be of the largest fire hazards imaginable. Why? Uncleaned dryer vents can catch fire just from the heat of running the machine. This is also where mold becomes infectious from hard to reach areas in-between your washer and dryer.
Keeping these areas clean is tough, but necessary. In the event that the worst occurs, there are two other minor details to pay attention to. Are your smoke detectors working, and do you have a working fire extinguisher handy?
Paying attention to little details like these can save you thousands in maintenance down the road, or the loss of your home altogether. A few minutes of cleaning and care can save you from having to rely on professionals.
Preventative Measures
Speaking of staying ahead of disaster, there are essential preventative measures to take if you want to save yourself an expensive repair later. According to https://www.plumbingfix.com/malibu you should keep an eye on your drains and pipes for signs of deterioration, as these can lead to flooding that can damage your entire home and belongings.
Water damage can be minor as well, often appearing on windowsills and in door frames. Make sure that both are tightly secured when shut to avoid rotting and mold.
Protecting Your Systems
The better your major appliances are maintained, the better they will run. It’s important to regularly change your air conditioner and furnace filters, as well as clean your fridge coils, to ensure that these devices are in their best condition.
Combined, these systems can cost an average of $4,500 when staying on the lower end of the spectrum. It’s important to have the proper maintenance performed on them as well. You can click here to find a good HVAC contractor.
Keeping Up With Maintenance
Develop a regular schedule in which you keep up on home maintenance and check your appliances. There are even smartphone apps that can remind you to do just that!
When you do run into an issue and can be tempting to want to turn it into a DIY project. While that’s perfectly fine in a lot of cases, there are several instances where expertise is needed. For instance, complex wiring will most certainly require you to call an electrician for help.
In the end, staying up to date with minor repairs and cleaning is the best way to be smart about home maintenance. A little bit of work here and there can save you thousands down the road.
