10 Home Checks You Can’t Afford to Skip

Keeping up with home maintenance can sometimes feel like another full-time job. It’s all about those little checks and tweaks that, if skipped, can lead to some much bigger problems down the line.

Whether it’s clearing out those nasty gutters or making sure your smoke detectors are working, these monthly to-dos are your best defense against the wear and tear that homes naturally face.

These are 10 simple, quick checks you can do to keep your home running smoothly, so you can spend less time fixing problems and more time actually enjoying your space.

Test and Reset GFCI Outlets

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets are a key safety feature in areas of your home where water is present, like bathrooms and kitchens. Testing them monthly is a quick way to ensure they’re working correctly.

Plug a small light into the outlet, press the “test” button (the light should turn off), then hit “reset” (the light should turn back on). If the light doesn’t respond as expected, it might be time to replace the outlet. This simple check can prevent electrical issues and keep your home safe.

Maintain Clean Range Hood Filters

Your range hood plays a crucial role in keeping your kitchen air clear by trapping grease. Over time, these filters can get clogged, reducing their effectiveness.

To clean them, simply remove the filters and let them soak in a mixture of hot water, dish soap, and baking soda for about 10 to 15 minutes. If grease remains, gently scrub it off with a brush.

Rinse the filters well and dry them with a paper towel before putting them back. This routine not only improves your kitchen’s air quality but also extends the life of your range hood.

Ensure Outdoor Vents and Meters Are Snow-Free

Keeping snow away from your home’s exterior vents and meters is vital, especially during winter months. Snow blocking these areas can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup indoors. After each snowfall, check and clear your dryer, furnace, and water heater vents.

Also, ensure that paths to your gas, electric meters, and oil or propane fill pipes remain accessible. This not only ensures safety but also maintains your home’s functionality during the snowy season.

Maintain Clear Drains in Sinks and Tubs

Slow draining sinks and tubs often signal a blockage. To tackle this, first try using a pipe cleaner to manually remove any visible clogs. For a more thorough cleaning, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by hot water.

This simple, chemical-free method can effectively clear your drains and prevent major plumbing issues before they start. Regular maintenance like this keeps your plumbing in top shape and your home running smoothly.

Keep Garage Doors Running Smoothly

Regularly lubricating your garage door’s hinges and rollers can make a big difference. Whether your rollers are metal or plastic, choosing the right lubricant will ensure they move without friction or noise.

This simple upkeep not only extends the life of your garage doors but also ensures they operate smoothly, saving you from a potential future hassle of stuck or noisy doors.

Maintain Clearance Around Air Conditioning Units

It’s crucial to keep the area around your air conditioning units clear by trimming any shrubs and removing leaves. Overgrown vegetation can block airflow, making your unit work harder and potentially leading to damage.

Regular trimming not only helps your A/C run more efficiently but also tidies up your yard, keeping your home looking neat and your systems running at their best.

Test Garage Door Safety Features

Take a few minutes to check the safety shutoff features on your automatic garage door. It’s all about making sure that the safety beams are working correctly. These beams are designed to stop the door if anything is detected in its path, preventing potential injuries or damage.

Regular testing can keep you and your family safe, ensuring that any faults are caught before they become a bigger problem.

Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Especially after stormy weather, take time to clear out your gutters and downspouts. It’s easy to overlook, but clogged gutters can lead to water damage on your roof and walls. Just grab a ladder, and safely remove any debris.

This not only prevents water from pooling but also protects your home’s foundation and landscaping from water overflow, which can save you from costly repairs in the long run.

Inspect Attic For Leaks When It’s Raining

Head up to your attic while it’s raining to catch any leaks early. If water sneaks in, it could mean trouble down the road with insulation damage or even mold, which nobody wants to deal with.

While you’re there, take a moment to check if your insulation and airflow are up to snuff. Poor insulation or blocked air can hike up your energy bills by making your heating or cooling system work harder than it should.

Check HVAC Filters

It’s smart to replace your HVAC filters quarterly, but a monthly check-up can save you a lot of headaches. Take a quick look to see if they’re getting clogged with dust or debris.

Clean filters mean cleaner air in your home and a more efficient heating and cooling system. It’s a simple step that helps keep everything running smoothly and keeps your air fresh and your energy costs down.