Just like a car requires regular oil changes, tire rotations and the occasional repair, your home is something that you should regularly maintain as well! Rather than letting things build up over time and become a bigger issue, we recommend making a checklist of items that you do monthly, quarterly and annually. Here are a few of our best tips!

Monthly

Check / Change HVAC Filters

Most experts say to change your HVAC filter every month and we recommend at least checking it’s condition. If you have pets or are very sensitive to allergens, go ahead and change the filter monthly. Otherwise, check it and replace as needed. Buy cheaper filters and change more often for better results than a more expensive filter that is changed infrequently.

Garbage Disposal

If garbage disposals aren’t cleaned frequently enough, you can quickly end up with a stinky kitchen! The easiest way to do this is to run hot water and baking soda through the disposal. Another method is to freeze vinegar into cubes and run them through the disposal. This will disinfect and kill odors!

Affresh in the Washer

One of our favorite cleaning products are Affresh Water Cleaner Tablets. Run one of these through your washer monthly to remove built up soap scum and residue deep inside your washer. This is will prolong the life of the washer and leave your clothes cleaner after a wash.

Quarterly

Test Smoke Detectors

This one is so simple and could save a life in the event of an emergency.  Press the “Test” button on each smoke detector. If the alarm sounds, you’re good to go. If not, replace batteries and test again. If the alarm still won’t sound, it might be time to replace!

Range Hood Filter

If you’re like most people and this is something you rarely do or have never done, you’re likely in for quite a treat! Remove the filter and let it soak in a degreaser you pick up from an auto parts store. After a few minutes rinse it off and you’ll be all set.

Water Softener

If you have a water softener in your home, check the salt drum and add more salt if necessary.

Annually

Gutters & Downspouts

Unless you have no-clean gutters installed, every fall is a great time to clean out the gutters. This prevents built up leaves from clogging up the gutters and downspouts which could lead to water backing up into your home!

Weather Stripping on Doors & Windows

Late summer before temperatures begin to drop heading into fall & winter is a great time to take a look and make sure none of your doors and windows are leaking air. If they are leaking, repair or replace the weather stripping to ensure a good seal. Your wallet will thank you when you receive your first heating bill of the winter!

Shut Off Outdoor Faucets

Here in the midwest, when fall begins to draw to a close we need to start thinking about the below freezing temperatures to come over the winter. One of the most important things to do to prepare your home is to shut off water to outdoor hose spigots, drain the water from the lines and put away your hose for the winter. This will help protect you against frozen pipes and a costly repair!