Buying your first home is an exciting milestone—one that comes with a lot of responsibility. In addition to decorating and furnishing your brand-new pad, you need to take care of some regular home maintenance to keep your property in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the line.
While some to-dos are obvious, there are a number of important tasks that might not be on your radar but that are essential to keep your home running efficiently and making it a safe and comfortable place to live.
We’ve pulled together a list of a dozen things you should be doing to keep your new house in perfect shape.
1. Inspect and Replace HVAC Filters
Replacing your HVAC system can run you anywhere from $5,000 to $12,000, so spending some time on regular maintenance is well worth your while. Inspect and replace your HVAC system’s filter regularly—it’s one of the simplest but most important tasks you can do to keep your home running efficiently. A clogged, dirty filter reduces the efficiency of your HVAC system, increases costs to heat and cool your home, and can even stress your unit and lead to system failures. The life span of filters varies by model and usage so check the owner’s manual; most filters have a lifespan between three to twelve months.
And don't forget about the other filters in your home that need to be cleaned and replaced as well, like the range hood, over-the-stove microwave, and window air conditioner units.
2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage, foundation issues, and pest infestations so it’s vital to clear them regularly to keep water flowing away from your home. Make it a point to clean gutters at least twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, or more frequently if you have trees close to your house.
Once water is flowing freely, add gutter guards to keep them clean. Frost King offers a range of easy-to-install gutter accessories, such as the Plastic Mesh Gutter Guard, a plastic mesh that can be easily unrolled, cut to length with a pair of scissors, and quickly installed on any type of gutter. Alternatively, you can use Vinyl Snap-in Gutter Screens to keep gutters and downspouts clear – these 3-foot long strips snap into place to keep the gunk out.
3. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors save lives—if they work properly. Test detectors monthly to ensure they are working correctly and replace the batteries at least once a year. Remember, too, that these detectors don’t last forever and need to be replaced every 7-10 years.
4. Check for Water Leaks
Water is the enemy of your home. Check exposed pipes and under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for signs of moisture, water stains, or mold. Address any leaks immediately or call in a plumber. It’s also a good idea to know the location of your main water shut-off valve so you can quickly turn off the water in case of a major leak.
5. Maintain Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against rain, snow, and windstorms. Do a quick visual inspection for missing or damaged shingles, signs of wear, or any other issues every month and after severe weather. You may want to call in a professional for an inspection every few years to ensure your roof is in good condition.
6. Service Your Water Heater
You probably haven’t given the water heater a lot of thought—but if it goes out it will be the first thing on your mind. Water heaters need regular maintenance to function efficiently and extend their lifespan. Read this article for step-by-step instructions on maintaining your tank. And if you have an older, inefficient unit, adding a Frost King water heater insulation blanket can reduce standby heat losses and cut your heating bills.
7. Seal Windows and Doors
Well-sealed windows and doors prevent drafts, help your home feel more comfortable all year long, and keep your energy bills in check.
Check the caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors every year and replace any that are cracked or worn out.
8. Clean Your Dryer Vent
You probably know to clean the lint filter of your dryer after every use, but did you know that you also need to clean out the hose that vents your dryer outdoors to lessen the risk of a fire? At least once a year, disconnect the house and use a vacuum or a special brush to remove built-up lint.
9. Maintain Trees and Landscaping
Overgrown landscaping can damage your siding and roof. Trim overhanging tree branches and bushes that are near or touching your home’s siding and roof.
10. Clean and Maintain Your Home’s Exterior
Power wash your home’s exterior once a year, and once it’s clean, check for flaking paint, which can make wood siding and shingles vulnerable to rotting or water leaks; sand and re-paint problem areas, then check for loose siding and repair as needed.
11. Test Your Sump Pump
If you have a basement, a sump pump can protect your home from flooding during heavy rains. Test the pump every few months—especially before the rainy season—by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. If the pump kicks on and drains the water, you’re good to go. If it doesn't, fix the issue or call a professional to have it repaired or replaced.
12. Inspect and Clean Chimneys and Fireplaces
To avoid the risk of a chimney fire, chimneys and fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected once a year to remove creosote buildup and check for structural issues.
