Our homes are just like our bodies. Just because everything seems to be working correctly, it doesn’t mean there are no areas to improve on or parts that need regular checkups and maintenance.
It’s understandable why we often overlook the minor details in our homes. With family duties, work responsibilities, and other life demands, it feels like there’s no time for walking around our house to look for problems. But just like everything in life that pertains to health and wellness, prevention is better than cure, and we can’t wait until something is irreversibly broken in our home before we do something.
Here are some home maintenance habits we often overlook and how to stay on top of them.
HVAC system
The heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is responsible for ensuring that your home retains a comfortable temperature throughout the year. When left unchecked, the HVAC system can be a breeding ground for dust, dirt, and other pollutants that can mess with your home’s indoor air quality.
The fix: Your heater and AC need regular upkeep for optimal functioning. Enlist the help of HVAC specialists to check if your filters and air vents need cleaning. Have them change your filters regularly to make sure that it’s not gathering dust and soot. A well-maintained HVAC system will not only work for much longer; it will also do wonders for your health.
Moisture and humidity
The seldom-seen and checked areas in your house are a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi that thrive in moist environments. These places include the attic, basement, storage rooms, and areas within the drywall. These organisms can cause sinus irritation and can be toxic to small kids.
The fix: Regularly check these areas for signs of water leaks. Make sure your plumbing system has no leaks and that there are no cracks for water to seep through.
Roof
One of the often-overlooked areas in our home is the roof. Very few people remember to check the roof for repairs or maintenance until a leak happens. When you find watermarks on your ceiling or have flooding issues, it’s a sign of more significant issues.
The fix: Watch out for water spots and other signs of a leak. Make a habit of keeping your roof debris-free to extend its lifespan; repairing and maintaining your roof costs much less than having it replaced if it gets broken beyond repair.
Outside faucets
If your home’s exterior faucets leak, they can spray water against the walls of your house, which can lead to significant wall deterioration.
The fix: Check your exterior faucets regularly to make sure there are no leaks at the stem of the handle and the hose connection. Should there be a leak in the tap, use a wrench to tighten the packing nut quickly.
Under the sink
Studies show that even a small drip can account for about fifteen gallons of water wasted per month. Furthermore, leaks under the sink are the common culprit for bathrooms and kitchens getting destroyed. Regularly checking under the sink for leaks should be a top priority for homeowners.
The fix: Aside from constantly checking and repairing water leaks under the sink, consider using materials for your cabinets that are less vulnerable to water damage. Water-resistant woods include cedar, white oak, teak, pipe, California redwood, and bald cypress.
Gutters
Gutters are also an often-overlooked part of home maintenance, especially during summer. Clogged drains can slow the drainage off your roof and may cause more damage. They can even rot the exterior of your home, making it susceptible to water entry and causing ceiling and wall damage.
The fix: When you clean your roof, don’t neglect the gutters. Keep it spotless all year round to avoid damage to your home.
Chimney
There’s no better time to double-check on your chimney than before winter arrives. If it has been unused for most of the year, it has most likely acquired a layer of soot that’s highly flammable.
The fix: Consider hiring a professional cleaner to get rid of the soot. Have them inspect the chimney to prevent fires.
Clothes dryer
Many of your appliances need maintenance, too, the chief of which is your clothes dryer. Clothes dryers generate a lot of heat, and leftover lint is susceptible to catching on fire.
The fix: Check on your clothes dryer regularly to make sure it’s lint-free at all times.
Keep Watch over Your Home
Doing these regular checkups may seem tedious, but it’s the only way you can stay on top of your home’s maintenance needs and the best way for you to prevent bigger problems. Take care of your home; it’s your only haven during this pandemic season.
