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Home Maintenance Tasks While At Home
While most of us are spending more time at home due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it is a good chance to take care of our homes. Just like an automobile needs regular maintenance to keep it running well and prevent major problems, a home also needs regular attention.
Monika Aptacy, Sales Associate with ERA Justin Realty shares some DIY tasks you can do to keep expensive repair costs down and prolong the life of your home.
Clean Away Dirt From Refrigerator Coils
Most refrigerators have a series of coils that are located either near the bottom or along the back of the refrigerator. If the coils become clogged, it can cause some serious troubles and can cause the machine to stop working completely. Vacuum to clean off the coils twice a year to keep them clean and working efficiently.
Get Rid of Sediment in The Water Heater
The water that pumps through a water heater contains sediment. Over time, the sediment can build up at the bottom of the heater and can form a hot spot, causing the water heater to fail. This can be avoided by simply removing the sediment once a year.
Clean The Dryer Vent
The accumulation of the lint can clog up the entire dryer vent and lead to a fire. To clean out the duct, simply disconnect it from the dryer and use a vacuum to remove the lint. A flapper can be easily cleaned with a paper towel and an all-purpose cleaner.
Check For Water Around The Base of Toilets
The presence of water in the wrong places can be a sign of major issues, like a worn toilet seal. Look for puddles of water around the base of all toilets at least once every other month.
If you spot any presence of water, ask a plumber to inspect before the issue becomes too serious.
Keep The Gutters Clean
While gutters seem to go unnoticed, they have a major responsibility to collect water and push it away from the home’s foundation. This keeps the foundation strong and allows the home to withstand the elements. Faulty gutters can lead to serious foundational problems that are extremely expensive to repair. Keep them debris free and ensure all are properly attached to the house.
Avoid Drafts From Windows And Doors
Faulty windows and doors can allow too much air in from the outside. It can also allow too much heat from the home to escape during winter months and the cool air during hotter temperatures. Inspect the caulk around the windows once a year and reapply where needed. Apply new weatherstripping around doors to make them air-tight.
Test Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detectors
A smoke detector, as well as a carbon monoxide detector, can save your life. Make sure the equipment is ready to do its job by performing regular tests. Every month do a test on the detectors to see if they are working properly. Replace the batteries every 6 months, without fail.
Clean Out Sink Drains
Exposing your plumbing drains to harsh chemicals can lead to wear and tear over time. While the chemicals are good for getting rid of a clog, a better alternative is to routinely flush out the drains with natural ingredients. Baking soda and vinegar are the safe choice. Flush with hot water once it sits for a few minutes.
By setting up a schedule to handle these tasks periodically, you can maintain the function of your home and continue to enjoy your biggest asset.
If you are looking for real estate buying or selling tips, contact Monika or any of our experienced real estate agents at ERA Justin. We are your area’s Full Service & Experienced Real Estate Company for over 50 years. Call 201.939.7500.
