Homeownership can be expensive. The good news is that you can learn to do many of the tasks around your home instead of hiring someone to do them for you. In this article, we will discuss the 14 things every homeowner should know how to do and the 3 things that you should always leave to the professional.
14 Home Maintenance Tasks
As a Homeowner, it pays to know the basics of home maintenance. Here are 14 home maintenance tasks every homeowner should be able to complete.
1. Change air filters regularly
Homeowners should learn how to replace the air filters in their homes. This is a simple task that can help keep your HVAC system running efficiently and improve indoor air quality. We recommend changing them at least every three months, but you may need to do it more often depending on the type of filter you have. Doing this will help keep your HVAC system running efficiently and save you money on energy bills.
2. Check for and repair broken window seals
If you notice a draft coming through your windows, it could be an indication of broken window seals. Often, a homeowner can winterize their windows on their own. But, if the job is too big, consider calling a professional like our friends at Quality Remodeling
3. Clean bathroom fixtures and faucets
Replacing your bathroom fixtures can be expensive. To avoid having to replace them sooner than necessary, consider cleaning the fixtures and faucets on a regular basis. Using a mild detergent and water to keep these areas clean will help maintain their life.
4. Change smoke detector batteries regularly
Home safety is very important and this simple task can help save your life. Testing and changing the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors is one of the most important jobs a homeowner can do. You may even want to consider installing smart detectors that will help you be alerted of a problem immediately.
5. Unclog drains
Unclogging drains is something you should be able to do yourself using some basic tools such as a plunger or snake. However, if you try and find that it's not working, it is important to call a professional. We cannot tell you how many times we have had to clean up big messes because a homeowner went too far trying to clear a drain.
6. Fix minor plumbing problems
Homeowners should have basic knowledge of plumbing and be able to fix minor problems such as leaking fixtures or pipes. Even if the problem is too big for you to handle, knowing how it's done will help you recognize when you have a real problem and need to call a professional plumber.
7. Check appliances for proper functioning
Homeowners should know how to check the functionality and performance of their major home appliances, like dishwashers and refrigerators. One of the easiest ways to do this is to familiarize yourself with manuals for each of these appliances.
8. Paint walls
Homeowners should be able to paint the walls of their homes and know how to properly prepare surfaces for painting. There are few things more satisfying than completely changing the look of your home with a fresh coat of paint.
9. Basic garden maintenance
Homeowners should understand the basics of gardening, such as planting and caring for flowers, vegetables, and shrubs. An untidy garden can lead to pests and other problems around your home.
10. Check the roof for wear and tear
Homeowners should be able to inspect the roof of their home for wear and tear, as well as signs of damage or leaks. Although roof repairs should be left to the professional, we encourage you to become familiar with your home's roof. When you notice a change such as a broken or missing shingle, call a roofing company right away. A small repair now can save you thousands of dollars later.
11. Clean gutters
Homeowners should know how to clean their gutters, which can help prevent water damage and protect against pests. Although there are plenty of companies who can do this for you, there will likely come a time when you can't get someone on short notice. Learning how to maintain your gutters can prevent water damage that could cost you thousands of dollars.
12. Patch drywall holes
Homeowners should be able to patch small holes in drywall, which can help maintain the aesthetic of their home. Many drywall repairs are too small to be profitable even for a handyman. Knowing how to do it yourself will help you avoid unsightly holes in your walls.
13. Install/repair window treatments
Homeowners should be able to install and repair window treatments such as blinds, shades, and curtains. Although many people think of window treatments as an aesthetic feature, they help protect furniture and upholstery, keep your house cooler, and add an extra layer of security from the outside world.
14. Clean air ducts
Homeowners should know how to clean their air ducts which will help reduce dust, dirt, pollen, and other debris in the home. You may be surprised by what you find in your air ducts, especially if you have preschoolers in the house.
3 Home Maintenance Tasks Homeowners Should Leave to Professionals
1. Electrical wiring
Homeowners should never attempt to repair or replace any electrical wiring in their homes.
2. Gas line repairs
Homeowners should never attempt to do any gas line repairs or installations themselves as this can be very dangerous.
3. Major plumbing repairs
Homeowners should never attempt to fix major plumbing problems such as broken pipes, extremely clogged drains, or installing new fixtures. Although it is possible to do minor repairs on your own, any major work should always be left to the professional.
By following these simple tips, you can become a more confident homeowner and save yourself time and money in the process. Homeownership can be expensive, but with the right knowledge and a bit of DIY spirit, it doesn't have to break the bank. Home maintenance and repairs may seem daunting at first, but you'll soon gain confidence when you realize how many tasks around your home are doable without professional help.
Homeownership is an exciting journey, but it's important to remember that some tasks should always be left to the professionals. That’s where we come in! We’re here to help! Call Linthicum Plumbing today at (410) 768-5350.