How to keep your house safe
HVAC System
Having your HVAC system checked regularly is a must. Small problems with your air conditioner or heater can lead to bigger problems in the future. Also, if the system is running inefficiently, you will pay for it on your utility bill. Every spring, have a specialist come out and run a maintenance check on your HVAC system.
Refrigerator
People rarely think about refrigerator maintenance unless it somehow stops working. One thing you can do at home is vacuum the refrigerator coils every year. As dust settles on those coils the refrigerator has to work harder, costing you more money on your energy bill. This practice will lengthen the life of your refrigerator as well as your utility budget.
Washer & Dryer
There are many different components that go into a properly working washer and dryer. Lint and dust buildup in the dryer and vents is inefficient and can be dangerous. every year, have the dryer vents cleaned out. A specialist should also look everything over and make sure it is all working correctly. Like the HVAC system, small problems can turn to larger, more expensive problems if not addressed.
Water Heater
Every year, you should drain your water heater to remove any sediment buildup. This allows the water heater to run cheaper and more efficiently. Having a regular maintenance inspection is not a bad idea either.
Roof
Roofs can sustain damage long before you notice anything inside. This damage can create leaks that make heating or cooling your home difficult, as well as allow water damage. At least once a year, have a specialist examine your roof for any possible weak spots. Replacing a few tiles every year or two is much cheaper, and safer, than paying for water damage from a leak.
Electrical
Faulty electrical wiring is extremely dangerous and may be hard to notice before there’s an accident. Check your electrical panel for any scorch marks. If a breaker keeps tripping, call an electrician to figure out why. Keep an eye on the trees on your property to make sure they aren’t interfering with any electrical wires.
Home maintenance isn’t necessarily difficult, just maybe difficult to remember. Create a checklist of people to call and maintenance projects to do annually. This is the best way to keep your home safe and problem-free.