By Julia Bell
Even when everything is in good shape and working well, owning a home can be expensive, and failing to properly maintain a house, which is likely a homeowner’s greatest financial investment, often leads to unexpected debt. A homeowner can save money in the long run by avoiding pricey emergency repairs and maximizing energy efficiency. To stay a step ahead, educate yourself on what should be checked regularly and learn how to maintain those essential components. While the list below is not exhaustive, these are universally recommended tips that homeowners can initiate to optimize appliances and
maintain the structural elements of their home.
Monthly Check Up
It’s a good idea to check plumbing systems regularly to catch leaks or clogs before they create more significant problems. Make sure all kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room drains are flowing freely, and look for drips or standing water under cabinets and behind toilets. Clean the garbage disposal monthly to keep it running efficiently. If your home has a septic tank, do regular treatments. Household size and water usage affect other maintenance schedules for septic systems, but maintaining it properly will help extend the time between pumping.
Indoor maintenance measures can maximize how the HVAC unit operates. Routinely vacuum vent covers and check all air filters for buildup that affects energy efficiency. Filters should be replaced every
three months or more often in homes with pets or family members with allergies. Write the installation date on filters to help you remember when to replace them, and ensure that outdoor vents are
open and clear of debris.
According to Bubba Labombard of SWAT Heating and Air, most HVAC
manufacturer warranties require two services per year which, if maintained, can help a technician spot changes in the system before major repairs are needed. Labombard recommends scheduling these
maintenance calls between March and June and again between late September and December. “The whole point of maintenance is to save energy, to keep the unit reliable, and to make it last longer for the homeowner,” he advises.
Make home safety inspections part of monthly maintenance measures, too. This should include ensuring that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Store fire blankets close to the stovetop, and mentally mark the location of the home fire extinguisher, which should be replaced every 10-12 years. Pet owners should examine electrical cords for signs of damage or wear, along with other areas the pets have access to, for floor staining or other issues that require attention.
Seasonal Inspection
As the seasons change, check outdoor decks for loose hardware and changes in structural integrity, and stain or seal the wood as needed to extend the life of the wood. In addition to regular maintenance of pools and exterior water features, keep an eye out for other outdoor water-related maintenance needs like leaking faucets or malfunctioning irrigation systems and drains.
Check for exterior home maintenance issues such as new fractures or spaces in external walls, walkways, and driveways. Repair handrails that may be damaged or loose. Note areas to touch up with paint or where siding is missing. As windows and screens are being cleaned, check related hardware and seal any cracks or gaps you discover.
Evan Varnadore of Superior Softwash helps homeowners with seasonal cleaning services for surfaces like concrete, vinyl siding, brick, and exterior windows. “Softwashing is an excellent way to clean everything from pollen on porches to staining on driveways,” says Varnadore, who adds that his service improves a home’s curb appeal while maintaining resale value.
Softwash treatments use specialized cleaning detergent and low water pressure. The process removes light-weight matter (such as cobwebs), while killing organic growth (like algae film on decks) at the root system, all while providing longer-lasting effects that are safe for surfaces around the home.
Several major indoor home appliances and systems also need attention as the seasons change. To avoid operating delays, be sure to schedule maintenance services for heating devices like gas logs well in advance. Set seasonal calendar reminders for maintaining appliances that are used every day, but are often overlooked, until they need repair. This may include clearing the dryer vent and cleaning exhaust fans and vents in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Annual Monitoring
Some home maintenance only needs to be done occasionally. If attics and garages are regularly cleaned and organized, homeowners can stay on top of treating pest infestations and address any repairs that are discovered, such as changes to the foundation or water damage. Carpet cleaning inside the house is
another chore that maintains the flooring while promoting health benefits for those with allergies.
According to Joe Nettles of Magnolia Roofing and Remodeling, many homeowners only notice their roof when it has problems. Preventative maintenance, however, extends its surface life and makes it water resistant, and not just waterproof. “Not every roof needs to be replaced, but every roof needs
something. Regardless of age, I’m big on maintenance,” Nettles says. “A roof should last 18-20 years in our market.”
It is common for a roof that is 8-10 years old to be at risk for leaks caused by caulk that has disintegrated or by dry rot to the rubber seal around the plumbing exhaust boot, so preventative
maintenance for roofs around this age should include replacing both of these. At all times, keep rooftops free of leaves, pine straw, and other tree debris because this can slow water down and cause leaks and other damage.
If you need a little more help with home maintenance reminders, there are free and low-cost online resources available, including apps, to keep track of dates for home maintenance performed and send reminders for recommended services throughout the year.
Local Contacts
Bubba Labombard – SWAT Heating and Air
803-606-5045
SWATHeatingAndAir.com
Joe Nettles – Magnolia Roofing and Remodeling
803-908-7131
MagnoliaRoofsSC.com
Evan Varnadore – Superior Softwash
803-727-6178
SuperiorWashSC.com
