Maintaining a home involves more than just the occasional spring cleaning. There are several crucial tasks that homeowners shouldn’t neglect to ensure a healthy and safe living environment. From cleaning your gutters to committing to regular duct cleaning, this article will discuss five essential jobs around the house you shouldn’t neglect.
Regular Duct Cleaning
Duct cleaning is an essential yet often neglected aspect of maintaining your home’s heating, air conditioning, ventilation and overall cleanliness. Regular duct cleaning helps improve indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens and other contaminants that naturally accumulate inside your air ducts. This process not only keeps the air in your home feeling and smelling fresh, but also helps to protect the health of your family members, especially those with allergies or respiratory issues.
Generally, it’s recommended to clean your air ducts every 3-5 years. However, the frequency of duct cleaning may vary depending on factors such as the presence of pets, your local climate and the age and condition of the duct system itself. If you’re unsure how often you’ll need to have your duct system professionally cleaned, consult with a duct cleaning professional to find out the best cleaning interval for your system.
Gutter Cleaning & Maintenance
Gutters play a vital role in protecting your home from water damage by directing rainwater away from the foundation. Neglecting gutter cleaning can lead to clogged gutters, which can cause water to overflow and damage your home’s exterior, roof and even the foundation.
To clean your gutters, remove debris such as leaves, twigs and dirt using a gutter scoop, trowel or by hand. After clearing the debris, use a garden hose to flush out any remaining dirt and ensure proper water flow. Inspect your gutters for any signs of damage and make any necessary repairs or replacements to the gutters to avoid further damage in the future.
Checking & Replacing Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are crucial safety devices that can save lives in the event of a fire or gas leak. Regularly checking and replacing these detectors will ensure they’re functioning correctly and providing optimal protection for your home and its occupants.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors very few months by pressing the test button on the device. Replace the batteries at least once a year or when the device signals a low battery warning. Detectors generally should be replaced every 10 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Sealing Cracks & Gaps
Sealing cracks and gaps in your home can help prevent water intrusion, drafts and pest infestations. Properly sealing your home can also improve energy efficiency, reducing your heating and cooling costs.
Identify any cracks or gaps in your home’s walls, foundations and around windows and doors. Use appropriate sealants, such as caulk or expanding foam to fill the gaps and prevent future issues. If you’re not confident in your home maintenance abilities, it’s best to contact a tradesperson or company who can complete this task as part of their service offering.
Cleaning & Maintaining Appliances
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your appliances not only prolongs their lifespan, but also ensures they operate efficiently and safely. Neglecting regular appliance maintenance can lead to malfunctions, increased energy consumption and even safety hazards.
Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintaining your appliances, and always unplug appliances before performing maintenance tasks to ensure your safety. If you’re not confident about servicing and maintaining your appliances yourself, it’s best practice to contact a professional who specialises in the specific appliance you want to clean or service.
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