Useful Guide to Preventative Maintenance To Save You Thousands

I remember reading a forum once about the craziest things auto shops had ever seen. Apparently there are way more people out there than you would think that have no idea that the oil in their car needs to be changed from time to time… Crazy. Maintenance on our homes is the same way. Want something to last? You have to take care of it and one of the biggest things I’ve found that most people skip are filters. Almost every appliance we’ve got in our homes has them and they NEED to be cleaned periodically!

(This is a contributed post, for more information about our compensation please read our disclosure policy)

Preventative maintenance is an integral part of keeping your home or business in tip-top shape. Regularly scheduled inspections and upkeep can prevent costly repairs and keep your property looking great. It also ensures a safe environment for you and your family or employees. This guide outlines some simple tips to help you save thousands in professional fees by performing regular preventative maintenance on your own.

Moreover, Having a homeowners warranty in place is a great way to protect yourself from any unexpected issues and help manage the costs of any repairs that may be necessary. It is also essential to create a checklist of maintenance items that must be completed each year and ensure they are done on time. Finally, taking the extra time to get a homeowners warranty can give you peace of mind knowing that your property is protected.

Regular Inspection:

One of the most important parts of preventative maintenance is staying on top of regular inspections. Inspections should be done at least twice a year, but some items may need to be inspected more often depending on their condition or environment. Start with an overall inspection that covers all areas of your home or business, including the roof and basement. Look for any signs of decay, wear and tear, water damage, or other problems that could lead to a costly repair. Make sure to keep an eye out for pest infestations as well; ants, termites, and rodents can cause extensive damage if left unchecked.

Yard Maintenance:

The exterior of your property should also receive regular attention to ensure that it looks its best. Trim any overgrown trees or bushes, and mow the lawn regularly. Keep an eye out for signs of erosion or water run-off, as these can cause severe damage to your home’s foundation if left unchecked. Ensure gutters are clear of debris and check drainage systems to ensure they are adequately draining away from your property.

HVAC Maintenance:

Your HVAC system is one of the most important components of your home or business, so it should be given extra attention during preventative maintenance checks. Inspect filters at least once a month and replace them when necessary; dirty filters can block airflow and lead to costly repairs down the line. Also, look for any signs of corrosion or rust around the system, and check the wiring to ensure it is secure. Inspect the air ducts for any blockages, holes, or leaks. Air leaks can cause a loss of energy efficiency and increase your heating or cooling bills. Lastly, get an A/C tune-up every year; this will make sure that the system is running at peak performance and that no costly repairs are required in the future.

Plumbing Maintenance:

Plumbing issues can be some of the most costly repairs homeowners, and business owners face, so regular preventative maintenance should be a priority. Start by running water through your pipes at least once a month; this will help remove any built-up sediment or debris that can block proper drainage, if it’s too late check out this article on drain cleaning before and after for useful solutions. You should also inspect all visible piping for leaks or signs of corrosion and flush out your water heater every few months to ensure it’s working correctly.

Appliances:

Check all appliances regularly for signs of wear and tear. Ensure hoses, pipes, and other components are in good working condition and replace them if necessary. Inspect seals around toilets and sinks to ensure they’re not leaking or cracked; a small leak can lead to extensive water damage if left unchecked. Also, inspect any exposed wiring to ensure it is in good condition, and replace any frayed or broken cords immediately. Finally, test all outlets regularly to make sure they are working correctly; overloaded electrical circuits can cause a fire hazard if left unchecked.

Electrical:

It’s important to check your home or business’s electrical system regularly to prevent potential fires from faulty wiring or overloaded circuits. Check the circuit breaker panel for damage or corrosion, and inspect cords for fraying or exposed wires. Make sure all outlets have three-pronged plugs with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) installed if they are in wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Test GFCIs regularly to make sure they are working properly.

These are just a few preventative maintenance tasks you can do on your own to save money and keep your home or business safe. By staying on top of regular inspections, yard maintenance, HVAC service, plumbing checks, and electrical inspections, you’ll be able to catch any potential problems before they become significant issues – saving you time and money in the long run. With a little preventive measure and care today, you can avoid costly repairs down the line!

It always pays off to stay alert and proactive regarding the safety of your family or business. Regular preventative maintenance checks not only help keep your property well-maintained, but they can also save you money and stress in the long run. So don’t wait until something breaks; take the time to inspect and maintain your home or business regularly for a safer, more cost-effective living space!

(This is a contributed post, for more information about our compensation please read our disclosure policy)