Owning a home is like being in a relationship. If you want to keep it going, then you should be willing to put in the time and the effort to maintain it.
When thinking about a home, the first thing that pops into most people’s heads is financial responsibility.
While that requires your attention, you must not forget about the time and labor that home ownership regularly demands.
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Monthly Home Maintenance Tips
Just like regular oil changes for your car, regular home maintenance tasks will keep you from future headaches and wasted money.
There’s no denying that the list is long. But you can complete most of the tasks on your own without much experience.
Most would not consider home maintenance as home improvement. But by maintaining your home, you will often improve both its appearance and its longevity.
Remember, Google is your friend. When confronted by an unfamiliar task, consult the worldwide web. If you really get stuck, call your local handyman to help you out.
Inspect HVAC Filters
Inspect, and possibly replace HVAC filters. Experts will tell you to change the filters monthly, but that’s not always necessary.
For smaller families without pets or allergies, you’ll likely be fine changing the filters every two to three months. If the filter is dirty, replace it. If not, inspect it again next month.
Clean Kitchen Sink Disposal
There are a number of ways to complete this task. However, we find the best all-around solution is vinegar ice cubes as suggested by Jeremy Anderberg of the Art of Manliness.
We’ve tried it and it works like a miracle.
Put some vinegar in an ice tray and let it freeze. Once the vinegar cubes form, run them through the disposal. This allows a thorough cleaning. As a bonus, the ice sharpens the blades.
Clean Range Hood Filters
If you’ve never cleaned your range hood filters, then you are in for one big, messy surprise. Use a degreaser from an auto parts store combined with hot water. Let the filter sit for a few minutes, rinse it off, and you’re done.
Inspect Your Fire Extinguishers
If you don’t have fire extinguishers in your home, get some. Then learn how to use them.
The monthly inspection doesn’t require much. Just ensure you have quick and easy access to them.
Make sure, also, that the gauge shows adequate pressure, and that there are no visible signs of wear and tear.
Check for Termites and Other Vermin
Do some research on your area. Find out what kinds of pests are common. Creatures like spiders, scorpions, ants, and termites can lead to costly problems.
Pests inhabit bathrooms, garages, basements, and kitchens. Look in these areas and determine if you have a pest problem. Remember, rats and mice can get into ceilings and walls, too.
You might need to consider consulting a pest service for additional advice.
Take it Easy…
While we’d all want to be that cool, bearded carpenter who can fix anything around the house, some of us just aren’t the type.
But as long as you have a bit of manual dexterity and a reasonably-functioning brain, most repairs, and maintenance challenges around the house aren’t that difficult.
In order to maximize your time and get all of these tasks done, create a home maintenance calendar.
This will not only remind you of the tasks that require your attention but also permit a sense of order into your routine.
Are you updated on the maintenance tasks your home requires?
