Regular maintenance is key to keeping your home in excellent shape. However, many homeowners forget to take care of basic tasks. By scheduling some upkeep around the beginning and end of Daylight Saving Time, you’re more likely to remember. Take care of minor issues regularly to prevent large problems (and expenses) down the road. Here are four home maintenance tasks to tackle when the time changes.
1. Clean the Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts must be cleared of leaves, pine needles, and other debris at least twice a year to prevent clogs. Blocked gutters overflow and lead to water damage on your roof, in the landscaping, and around the foundation. Gutter-cleaning is a quick and easy task you can do yourself with a ladder and a pair of gloves. Just be cautious and have a friend or family member stabilize the ladder when climbing to the roof.
2. Tasks to Tackle When the Time Changes: Inspect the Roof
Inspect your roof for cracked or missing shingles at least twice a year, especially if you live in an area with severe weather conditions. Damaged roofing materials can lead to leaks, so it’s essential to replace them as soon as you notice a problem. While on the roof, look at your gutters and downspouts to make sure they’re clear of debris.
3. Check the Smoke Alarms
Smoke detectors save lives, but to sound an alarm, they must be in good working condition. Replace the batteries in your smoke detectors twice each year, and test the devices monthly. Working smoke alarms are essential in reducing injuries and deaths from house fires, so make sure yours are in good shape. Check the detectors for an expiration date; replacing them every ten years is recommended.
4. Inspect Your HVAC System When the Time Changes
Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable all year long, so taking care of the system is essential. Hire an HVAC technician to inspect and service the system twice yearly, in spring and fall.
One of the easiest things you can do is change the filters, as recommended, every 30 – 90 days. Clean filters prolong the life of your HVAC system and improve indoor air quality.
Taking care of these four home maintenance tasks every six months will help prevent significant problems down the road while keeping your home in good shape. Plus, these tasks are relatively quick and easy to do yourself.
Jamie Schaefer Professional Home Inspector offers inspection services in Ocala, Florida, and the New York Metropolitan Area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.