Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions and purchases a person can make. In addition to the financial responsibility of paying your mortgage, you also need to make sure you keep up with the maintenance of your home. If you’re a homeowner, it’s important to regularly maintain and clean your home to keep it in top condition. Regular cleaning of the gutters, roof, or foundation inspection is essential for anyone considering buying a home in Seattle, Washington. The same is true for those renting a house in Atlanta, Georgia, an apartment in Miami, Florida, or a home in any other climate.
To help you keep track of projects that need to be completed around your home, Redfin reached out to a wealth of experts to create a list of home maintenance tips to keep your home looking its best.
1. Check for signs of mold
After moving into a new home, it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of mold. “Water damage and mold can spread quickly if ignored. Check for leaks under sinks and around appliances, and quickly resolve any visible problems. For mold, clean small areas with a mold remover and call a professional restoration company for larger problems,” says Protegrity Restoration, a water damage restoration company based in Tampa and Orlando, Florida. Masu.
2. Flush the water heater
Not many homeowners know how to take care of their water heaters. “Cleaning your water heater annually removes built-up deposits, increases efficiency, and extends its lifespan. This simple maintenance task can help you avoid costly repairs and premature replacement.” Tampa, FL suggests Grable Plumbing & Air, a plumbing company based in .
3. Take care of your drain pipes
One of the most important home maintenance tips is to take care of your drains now. “To keep your drains flowing, use hair catchers in your bathroom drains and avoid pouring oil down your kitchen sink. These simple habits reduce the risk of clogs and It keeps your pipes clean,” says Denny’s Plumbing Service, a plumbing services company based in Clearwater, Florida.
4. Investigate the failed circuit
Every time a circuit trips, it can be unsettling for new homeowners. “If the circuit is not working, first go to the electrical board and check the fuses and breakers. Then, if everything is OK, reset the tripped breaker or replace the blown fuse. But again If you trip, service by a licensed and certified electrician is highly recommended,” advises Court Electrical Services, an electrical service company in Dunedin, Florida.
5. Outdoor lighting installation
If it’s dark and scary outside your home, you may want to add some extra lighting. “Outdoor lighting enhances security, improves a property’s curb appeal, and improves safety. Simple lighting projects may lend themselves to DIY, but hiring a qualified electrician can help with safe, professional installation. guaranteed,” says Dadz Electrical Services, an electrical service company in Lynnwood, Washington.
6. Replace the HVAC filter
HVAC repairs can be expensive, so one of the best home maintenance tips is to take precautions to prevent damage. “Replace your HVAC filter every 1 to 3 months. A clean filter improves air quality, keeps your system running efficiently, and puts less strain on your unit,” says Dunedin, Florida. Based air conditioner repair company Veterans AC & Heat advises.
7. Check the air flow in the vents
When moving furniture, be sure to know where you will put things. “Make sure that furniture, curtains, and other objects do not block the vents. This maintains consistent airflow and prevents overloading the system,” says Air 24, an air conditioner repair company in Tampa, Florida. /7 speaks.
8. Periodic inspection of indoor air conditioning units
Big problems can creep up on you. Check the indoor unit for signs of damage. “Regularly check for standing water around your indoor unit, which could indicate a clogged drain line. Regularly clean your HVAC drain lines with vinegar or a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. Cleaning helps prevent clogs, mold growth, and water damage,” adds Trust Heating & Air, an air conditioner repair service in Loganville, Georgia.
9. Improve air quality with a quality vacuum cleaner
Not all vacuums are created equal. For the best air quality, use a HEPA filter. “To improve indoor air quality, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to reduce dust, pet dander, and allergens in your home and prevent dust from regularly accumulating on surfaces. Investing in a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter can also help,” suggests Guardian Home Services, which provides air conditioner repair and air quality services in the Dallas, Plano, and Garland, Texas areas.
10. Inspect the roof for algae and moss.
If something starts to grow on your roof, one of the best home maintenance tips is to clean it regularly. “Inspect your roof regularly for algae and moss, which can damage the shingles over time, especially in shady areas. If you notice dirt building up, To avoid damage to your shingles, schedule a professional soft wash,” says Absolute Cleaning Services, a cleaning company based in Tigard, Oregon.
11. Clean the gutters
No one likes getting on a ladder to clean their gutters, but it’s important to do to keep your roof in good condition. “Keep gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and debris to prevent water from pooling on your roof and reduce staining and damage from overflow,” says Hydra, a cleaning service serving the Lynnwood, WA and Seattle areas.・Clean NW says.
12. Clean thoroughly to avoid unwanted pests
Cleaning not only keeps your space beautiful, but also keeps pests away. “Keep your home clean by vacuuming, sweeping, and wiping surfaces regularly to remove crumbs and spills that may attract pests. , be sure to clean behind and underneath,” advises Clearwater, Florida pest control company Drive-By Exterminators.
13. Eliminate sources of moisture
Moist areas in your home may not be a concern now, but they can cause problems in the future. “Repair leaky faucets, pipes, and other moisture sources around your home. Moist areas attract pests such as cockroaches, ants, and silverfish.” Glen Allen, Virginia says James River Pest Solutions, a pest control company.
14. Streamline garage storage
Instead of storing things everywhere you can, try organizing your boxes to create a clear system for finding things when you need them. “Store your items in clear labeled boxes on overhead shelves so you can quickly find what you need without having to move through multiple boxes.” Garage Storage Service, based in Tampa, Florida The Smarter Garage recommends using overhead storage racks, cabinets, or shelving to maximize your garage space.
15. Clean the refrigerator coils
Regular cleaning is very helpful in maximizing the performance of your refrigerator and reducing the risk of malfunction. “Dust and dirt buildup on the coils at the back and bottom of the refrigerator can cause the refrigerator to overheat and work harder. Clean the coils every 6 to 12 months to increase efficiency,” Georgia Atlanta Appliance, a home appliance repair company in Loganville, State, offers.
16. Remove lint from the dryer
Lint buildup inside the dryer is a serious fire hazard. “Clean the ventilation ducts regularly to prevent lint buildup that can cause the dryer to overheat and reduce efficiency. Also, to avoid fire hazards and improve air flow, , empty the lint trap after each load, says Gulf Coast Appliance, an appliance repair company serving Clearwater, Largo, and St. Petersburg, Florida.
17. Watch for early signs of pests
Don’t ignore the mysterious signs of life. If you have a pest infestation, you need to address the situation as soon as possible. “Inspect attics, basements, and hidden areas for droppings, tracks, and nests, and listen for scratching, running, and creaking sounds. Especially at night, these sounds can be caused by wild animals in your home. may indicate activity,” World Class Wildlife Removal Association recommends. Wildlife removal services for homeowners in Largo, Clearwater, Tampa, Sarasota, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, Florida.
18. Seal cracks and gaps.
One of the best home maintenance tips to prevent pest infestation is to check for potential entry points. “Check around windows, doors, vents, and foundations for cracks and gaps that animals such as rodents, squirrels, and bats could enter. Caulk, steel wool, or weatherstripping the openings. ,” says Covenant Wildlife, which provides wildlife removal services in Sterrett and Birmingham, Alabama.
19. Prevent carpet discoloration
A consistent vacuuming schedule makes a big difference in the quality of your carpet. “Vacuum your carpet at least once a week to prevent dirt and debris from settling in the fibers, which can cause wear and discoloration over time,” says Professional Carpet Systems. , a home cleaning service in Dunedin, Florida.
20. Take care of natural stones
No one wants to pay for expensive repairs, especially when they can be easily prevented. “Clean, polish, and seal your natural stone countertops, floors, and showers every 3 to 5 years for hard stones like granite and at least once a year for softer stones. Always maintain maintenance. By being thorough, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements,” says Amarillo Dry Carpet and Cleaning Services, a home and carpet cleaning service in Amarillo, Texas.
21. Make sure water is flowing out of the house
When there is heavy rain, there is a risk of flooding. Make sure your gutters and downspouts direct water in the direction you want. “Make sure your gutters and downspouts are oriented away from your home’s foundation to prevent water buildup that can lead to costly repairs and foundation damage. Also, keep any debris away. If you find them, remove them and keep your gutters clean,” advises Suncoast Specialty Structures, a construction company in Tarpoon Springs, Florida.
22. Inspect the siding
One of the most underappreciated home maintenance tips is to check the quality of your home’s siding. “Check your home’s siding for cracks, warping, or other damage that could lead to moisture issues. If necessary, repaint or replace damaged siding.” says Georgia Home Remodeling, a construction company based in Bethlehem, Georgia.
23. Check drainage
The last thing you want after moving into your dream home is water damage. “Ensure proper drainage around the concrete surface to prevent water from pooling and causing cracks. Sloping the surface slightly away from the structure will help prevent water damage,” says Georgia. says Concrete Ninja, a concrete service business in Monroe, NH.
24. Secure a location for sprinklers
It is important to ensure that there are no obstructions to the sprinklers. Sunrise Irrigation & Sprinklers, a sprinkler repair company serving Tampa, Largo, and Newport, says, “There should be no backing around sprinkler heads that can block water flow and prevent proper lawn coverage. Avoid tall grass, shrubs, and other obstructions.” Richie and Sarasota, Florida.
