For the new year, you might pledge to spend more time with your friends, get in shape, or learn a new skill. But what about resolutions for your home?
In the spirit of new beginnings, set a goal to keep your home in good shape. Whether it’s maintaining your HVAC system, getting organized or clearing out your dryer vents, we have the ultimate list of maintenance resolutions that can help you protect your home in the new year and for years to come.
1. Test Home Detectors
Every homeowner should feel confident in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. So, it’s important to test them every month and replace the battery once a year, per the U.S. Fire Administration’s recommendation. By checking in regularly, you can ensure that these critical safety devices are working properly.
2. Clean Out the Gutters
Clogged gutters can lead to a whole slew of problems, including water damage outside or inside your home due to improper drainage. Schedule a gutter cleaning at least once a year to clear out leaves and debris from spouts that allow rainfall or melting snow to flow freely.
3. Maintain Your HVAC Systems
While most HVAC units are out of sight and out of mind, you shouldn’t ignore this complex system. Without regular checkups, one small issue could quickly escalate into a major, costly problem.
Aim to service your heating and cooling systems at least once a year, ideally before their respective season arrives. That way, if there is a problem, it can be fixed before the seasonal weather hits.
4. Deep Clean Appliances
Debris can accumulate around or underneath kitchen appliances and cause them to work less efficiently, so it’s beneficial to deep clean your appliances a few times a year. A regular deep clean not only keeps your kitchen clean and fresh smelling, but also helps maintain appliances and keep them working properly.
5. Steam Clean Carpets
Having professional carpet cleaners come at least once a year can help extend the life of your flooring and keep your home looking and smelling fresh. The most popular method is steam cleaning, which penetrates deep fibers and lifts dirt and pollutants that normal vacuums can not reach. Pet owners may find more benefit in scheduling a professional carpet clean twice a year for heavy foot-traffic areas.
6. Clean Your Dryer Vent
It’s natural for build-up to occur in your dryer vent after regular usage — and it could pose a major fire hazard.
If you’ve noticed your clothes taking longer to dry than usual, it’s a good idea to have your vent cleared out. Even if your dryer is operating normally, you should bring in a professional to clean out the vent at least once a year. Some households might need more frequent cleanings, especially if you use your dryer heavily or have pets that shed.
7. Build an Emergency Fund
As a homeowner, issues may inevitably arise in your home. And preparing for it financially before the problems occur is the best way to stay ahead of potential repairs. Most people should expect to pay 1% to 4% of their home’s value in maintenance and repairs each year.
Set a goal to build an emergency fund dedicated to home repairs, so you can avoid unpleasant financial surprises.
If homeownership is one of your goals for the new year, get in touch with a Starlight representative. You can schedule an appointment with one of our Home Guides to get started.
