Owning a home is fulfilling, but it also comes with many responsibilities. Maintenance tasks are necessary to keep your house in top condition. Unfortunately, some of these tasks can be forgotten entirely due to other demands on our time and attention. This article discusses some of the most commonly overlooked home maintenance tasks to include in your routine.
Inspect and Clean the Ceiling Fan
In the winter, ceiling fans help you heat your home more efficiently. By setting the blades to spin clockwise, the fan pushes warm air from the ceiling back down into the living spaces. Inspecting and cleaning ceiling fans is a simple home maintenance activity to add to your checklist.
Neglected ceiling fans collect dust, resulting in lower air quality and decreased energy efficiency. The process of cleaning a ceiling fan is simple. You’ll need cleaning rags or microfiber cloths, a step ladder, a vacuum with an upholstery attachment, and an all-purpose cleaner. The stepladder will allow you to access the blades for easier removal of dust and grime.
Don’t Overlook the Garbage Disposal During Home Maintenance
An in-sink disposal can become clogged if not regularly cleaned, leading to malfunctions and unpleasant odors. Fortunately, cleaning the disposal is easy.
To begin, turn off the power to the unit by switching off its breaker in the circuit panel. Use tongs to remove large pieces of food or debris from within the appliance. Next, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain and let it sit for several minutes. Follow this by adding two cups of white vinegar to create a bubbling reaction that loosens debris and eliminates odors.
Laundry Machine Maintenance
Cleaning the laundry machines is one of those home maintenance tasks that often gets overlooked. It’s an important task, however, as it can extend your washing machine’s and dryer’s lifespan. Regularly clean your appliances by wiping the interiors with a damp sponge or cloth.
Keep the washing machine running efficiently by cleaning the filter as recommended by the manufacturer. You’ll remove lint and clogs that could damage the machine’s components. Check the hoses regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or leaks, and replace damaged hoses before more extensive damage is done. Once a month, run an empty washing machine cycle with bleach or vinegar.
Remove lint from the lint trap every time you use the clothes dryer. Check the machine’s vent for lint accumulation at least twice a year. A clogged vent can cause the appliance to overheat, damaging clothing or causing a house fire.
Overlooked Home Maintenance: Drain the Water Heater
Homeowners often overlook water heater maintenance. Regularly draining this appliance keeps it working efficiently, extends its lifespan, and helps prevent issues that could lead to costly repairs.
Draining a water heater is relatively simple, and most homeowners can handle the task on their own. Turn off the electricity or gas power source and the water supply valve. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank and place the other end in an area capable of collecting large amounts of water, such as a basement floor drain or outside your house.
Homeowners work to maintain their properties; however, some tasks are commonly overlooked. During the colder days of winter, make time for basic upkeep around the house. It’s a wise investment of time, and your home will be better for it.
JW Goad Home Inspections offers inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in the Clarksville area of Tennessee. Contact us to request an appointment.