Congratulations on becoming a new homeowner! This is an exciting time, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. One of the most important things you can do to protect your investment is to keep up with regular home maintenance.
Here are five home maintenance tasks that new homeowners often overlook:
- Cleaning the dryer vent. Most people know to clean the lint trap in their dryer after every use, but how often do they clean out the duct? Clothes dryers have long ducts that can get clogged with lint or pests over time. A clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard, so it’s crucial to have it cleaned professionally at least once a year.
- Flushing the water heater. Sediment can build up in the bottom of your water heater over time, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Flushing the water heater once a year helps to remove sediment and keep it running smoothly.
- Cleaning the refrigerator coils. The coils on the back of your refrigerator are responsible for dissipating heat. If they become clogged with dust and dirt, your refrigerator will have to work harder to cool, which can shorten its lifespan. Clean the coils once a year with a vacuum cleaner or brush.
- Inspecting gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to overflow, which can damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Inspect your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year and clean them out as needed.
- Testing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for safety, but they’re only effective if they’re working properly. Test them once a month and replace the batteries every year.
Neglecting pool maintenance can lead to a host of problems, including algae growth, cloudy water, and even structural damage to your pool. It’s essential to have your pool professionally serviced regularly, especially if you use it frequently.
All Weather Pool Service offers a variety of pool maintenance services, including weekly cleanings, chemical balancing, and equipment repair. They can also help you with pool openings and closings. To learn more about their services, you can visit their website.
Here are some additional tips for new homeowners:
- Create a home maintenance schedule and stick to it. This will help you to stay on top of all the necessary tasks and avoid surprises.
- Keep a record of all home maintenance work that has been done. This will be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or if you decide to sell your home in the future.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a professional if you’re uncomfortable doing a particular home maintenance task yourself.
By following these tips, you can help keep your home in good condition for years.
Christine Kelley is a dedicated home blogger who has been blogging for over six years. She covers everything home related. Christine also loves writing posts about her travels to Europe with her husband and two children.