The regular checkups
These tasks seem smaller and less important, but to prevent a major problem from occurring in the future, they should be done on a monthly basis. Plan to do them either at the beginning or the end of the month to help you remember the task at hand. Once you get into a routine, it will be easy to set time aside every month to get these projects done and keep things in your home running smoothly.
The HVAC system – Although there are things that need to be done once or twice a year, there is one thing with this system that should be done monthly. Check the filter to see how dirty it is, and whether or not it needs to be changed. This is the best safety net for your family against unhealthy dust and pathogens that may be circling through the air in your home. By keeping your filter clean, you will notice it is easier to breath and sickness will not be passed around the home so easily. Drains – It is much easier to clean out the drains in your home before they become completely clogged. Take out the stopper and use a drain snake, or even just a metal coat hanger to pull debris out. You will be surprised just how much will accumulate over time. Make sure to get every drain in the home from the laundry room sink to the tub. Water softener – If you have a water softener in your home, ensure that there is still enough salt in the drum. Running the water softener without this will do you no good, and may even damage the appliance. Garbage disposal – We rely on the garbage disposal for a lot. Make sure that it will continue running for years to come. Flush it out monthly with hot water and baking soda, eliminating the smell and higher chances for clogging.
Besides these monthly maintenance checks, there are a few bigger problems that should be inspected often throughout the year. Not having these appliances inspected could lead to large problems in your home.
Larger items
These things may not need to be checked as often, but neglecting them when they do need it can lead to much larger consequences. Pay attention to each of these items and know when it is best to perform routine maintenance on these home appliances.
Smoke detector – Every six months, check the batteries in your smoke detector. If they need to be replaced, be sure to do so as soon as the problem is discovered. Furnace and air conditioner – These should each be checked at least once a year. Plan to have them both inspected at the same time, or have the furnace checked in the fall and the air conditioner serviced in the spring. This will help keep both of them energy efficient throughout their season. Your HVAC system is important to your home, keeping it the ideal temperature in any season. The hot water heater – You should flush the buildup that has accumulated in your hot water heater every six months. This will keep it running for longer, and prevent you from being left without hot water at any time.
Look around your home for the routine maintenance that is necessary. It is important to take the steps to keep your home running for longer. By taking a little extra time to complete these tasks, you will avoid spending outrageous amounts of time and money later down the road.
