After moving into a new home, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget about mundane tasks that keep your home in tip-top shape. To avoid letting any crucial home maintenance tasks fall through the cracks, here is a list of commonly forgotten exercises.
1. Roof maintenance
It’s easy to forget about your roof because it’s not something you see or even think about every day. However, keep an eye on it and perform regular maintenance. A worn-out roof can lead to severe problems like water damage.
Schedule a time each year to inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles. You should also clear debris accumulated on the roof to prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for pests. Reach out to Bellevue roof cleaning experts or one nearby for convenience and timely services.
2. Gutter maintenance
Your gutters play an essential role in protecting your home from water damage. Inspect your gutters at least once a year for blockage but more often after a storm. Clean them out as needed. It’s also a good idea to check the gutters for any loose brackets or other damage that could cause them to detach from your home. Remember to clear the downspouts of debris to allow water to flow freely. Use a garden hose to test the downspouts by running water through them.
3. Chimney maintenance
Perform regular maintenance on the chimney, such as sweeping and removing blockages. Doing this will prevent chimney fires. You should also have the chimney inspected annually by a professional. During a scheduled inspection, the professional will check for any structural damage and whether the flue is in good working condition.
4. Furnace maintenance
Many people forget about furnace maintenance until they need to use it, only to find out it’s not working correctly. To avoid this, have your furnace serviced by a professional at least once a year. Clean it out and vacuum the area around it to prevent the buildup of dust or debris. Doing so maintains a healthy environment and improves its efficiency.
5. Air conditioning maintenance
Like furnaces, air conditioners require regular maintenance to function correctly. Schedule maintenance, especially when the appliance is not in use. The professional will clean the coils and check for leaks. They will also oil the motor and inspect the belts for wear and tear.
6. Smoke detectors
Check the smoke detectors monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year. You can do this yourself, but it’s a good idea to regularly have a professional do it. Just before winter is a good time to do this because you’ll use your furnace more often, increasing fire risk. Don’t forget the carbon monoxide detectors as you check the smoke detectors.
7. The electric system
Check the electrical panel monthly for any loose connections. Also, check all the outlets and switches to see if they’re working correctly. If you find any damage, have it repaired immediately by a professional. Also, find out if the system can handle increasing energy needs. If you live in an old home, think of an upgrade.
Endnote
Waiting for problems to develop is not the best way to go about home maintenance. By being proactive and keeping up with regular maintenance tasks, you can avoid many costly repairs down the road. You’ll also avoid emergencies that affect your safety, convenience, and comfort.
