To kick off the new year (cause it’s New Year, New You, right??), you should plan some home maintenance that you’ve likely been putting off. Regular maintenance keeps your home in great shape and can save you money by preventing costly repairs down the road. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or new to homeownership, these top maintenance tips will help you start the year off right.
Inspect and Replace HVAC Filters
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system works hard year-round to keep your home comfortable. Dirty filters reduce efficiency, increase energy costs, and can affect your indoor air quality. Make it a habit to check your filters monthly and replace them as needed. If you haven’t done so already, consider scheduling a professional HVAC inspection to ensure your system runs efficiently.
When summer rolls around and the “feels like” temp is 115 degrees, you’re gonna be proud of the you today who maintained this system!
Check for Leaks
Leaks in your home can lead to water damage, mold, and higher utility bills. Inspect faucets, showerheads, and toilets for drips or leaks. Check under sinks and around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for signs of water damage. Don’t forget to inspect your water heater for leaks or corrosion.
And if that leaky sink led to the cabinet being damaged – for the love of everything, please repair this!
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can cause water to pool around your home’s foundation or allow water to back up in your house. Start the year by thoroughly cleaning your gutters and downspouts. (or paying someone else to do it!) Remove leaves, twigs, and debris to ensure proper water drainage. With the rain we get in New Orleans, don’t skip this maintenance item!
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential. (and the law when you sell your home!) Test all detectors to ensure they work properly. Replace the batteries if needed.
If your detectors are more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace them with new ones.
Inspect Your Roof
Your roof protects your home from the elements, so keeping it in good condition is essential. Look for missing, damaged, or curling shingles. Check for signs of moss or algae growth, which can lead to roof deterioration. If you’re not comfortable inspecting your roof yourself, hire a professional to do it for you.
Service Your Appliances
Keeping your appliances cleaned and serviced will help extend their life expectancy. Clean your refrigerator coils, check your dryer vent for lint buildup, and descale your coffee maker. A vent under your microwave needs to be cleaned, too. I bet you didn’t know that!
Check Your Home’s Exterior
Walk around your home and look for signs of wear and tear. Check for cracks in your driveway or foundation, loose siding, or peeling paint. Don’t forget to check your windows for rotting wood or water intrusion, as well!
No one likes having to do things around the house. If that’s you, call someone to handle this for you! But trust us, you want to stay on top of your home maintenance. When it comes time to sell your home, you’ll be thrilled you did.
And if you have purchased a home with Be New Orleans – you have your home app to help you keep track of these items, too!
Feel like this is too much to remember? Download this: Be New Orleans Home Maintenance list
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