There are many tasks that homeowners must complete in order to properly maintain their property. These jobs range from cleaning/changing furnace filters, shutting off water spigots for winter and cleaning gutters to testing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Owning a home comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and comfort. While some tasks may be more obvious, others, like caring for skylights, can easily be overlooked. Here are seven essential home maintenance projects every homeowner should prioritize, including the care and maintenance of skylights.
Failure to perform these important home maintenance projects could result in expensive repair bills and a poorly maintained home. To avoid this, follow these 7 Essential Home Maintenance Projects for Homeowners.
Change Your Light Bulbs
Changing light bulbs might seem like an obvious task, but it’s one that many homeowners forget to do. A burned-out bulb is not only unsightly, but it can also create a safety hazard in your home.
Make sure the light fixture is switched off before attempting to change it. If the fixture is out of reach, use a ladder or step stool that is stable and appropriately sized for your needs.
Once you’ve successfully installed the new bulb, turn on the power supply by flipping the circuit breaker or main power switch associated with the fixture to the “on” position. Then, flip the light switch to activate the new bulb.
Change Your Door Locks
If you’re moving into a new home, or have recently parted ways with a roommate or tenant, you should consider changing your door locks. Replacing or rekeying locks is an easy DIY project that can greatly enhance your home’s security.
Start by purchasing a new lock that matches your existing lock’s keyway. Next, remove the interior knob and exterior latch plate screws. Next, use a screwdriver to remove the dead bolt and latch plate from the door jamb.
Replace the old latch plate with the new one and install the dead bolt, making sure it’s set to the correct backset (2 3/8 or 2 3/4). Reinstall the knobs and re-attach any decorative cover plates.
Change Your Air Filters
Air filters are an essential part of keeping your home smelling and looking clean. They are also a great way to help family members with allergies and respiratory issues.
Changing your air filter is a simple task. Just make sure that you shut off power to your system before changing the filter. This can be done by turning off the thermostat or breaker box.
Once the unit is turned off, locate your filter and verify that the replacement is an
exact fit. Then, simply install the new filter following any arrows on the replacement to ensure proper air flow.
Change Your Clogged Drains
Clogged drains create an environment that encourages the growth of bacteria, fungi and spores. These organisms are disease-causing and can cause health issues for your family. They also block water flow in your home, resulting in slow drainage and toilets that won’t flush.
The most common causes of clogged drains are hair and grease. To prevent these clogs, be sure to dispose of grease in the garbage and avoid pouring cooking oil down kitchen drains.
You can also unclog drains yourself with a plunger or power auger. If you’re not comfortable handling these DIY jobs, call a professional.
Clean Your Gutters
The gutters and downspouts of your home are designed to direct rainwater away from the walls and foundation, but clogs can make them ineffective. This can lead to costly repairs, mildew and mold in the siding, water seepage into your home, and rotting wood.
Cleaning your gutters is an essential homeowner maintenance project that can be done for little money. You’ll need a ladder, gutter scoop and garden trowel, work gloves, and a bucket. Before you begin, inspect the ladder for uneven footing and have a family member or friend stand at the base of the ladder to stabilize it.
Clean Your Windows
The first step in cleaning your windows is to hose down the frames and seals. This helps remove the most stubborn dirt and grime before you get to the window itself, which makes the task much easier.
Be sure to avoid washing your windows in the blazing sun, which can cause the cleaner to dry on the glass before you wipe it off, leaving hard-to-remove streaks. It is also a good idea to start at the shady side of your house and work your way around.
Afterward, use an absorbent microfiber or lint-free cloth to wipe off excess water and shine your windows. This keeps them looking great and prevents spots from reappearing.
Clean Your Appliances
Fridges keep your food safe, stoves help you prepare meals and dishwashers make cleanup a little easier. These appliances can get very dirty, especially if you spill things or leave items sitting on them for long periods of time. Look for a home appliance service plan that covers kitchen appliances and greatly reduces the cost of repairs.
Always unplug small electric appliances before cleaning, and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions (you don’t want to ruin them by immersing them in
water). You can clean many smaller electronics with hot water and vinegar or your favorite household cleaner.
Proactive maintenance can save homeowners from costly repairs down the road. Use this checklist to stay on top of your home maintenance this summer and all year round.
