Eventually, every homeowner learns how toprioritize maintenance tasks. And most often, the ones that rise to the top the fastest are the ones we once dismissed as trivial or unimportant.
We live and learn, especially with five tasks that are often easy to let slip from our urgency radar. These tasks can cause fire or equipment breakdowns, which claim a category unto themselves:
1. Don't forget to: Check the filter for your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system every 30 days.
Why you'll regret it if you forget it: A filter choked with dust and dirt impugns your system's efficiency, causing it to run longer, which in turn will inflate your energy bill every month. In the worst cases, a clogged filter can trigger a system shutdown. You may have to replace the filter only every three months, but it's worth checking every month, especially when you're running the system constantly.
2. Don't forget to : Clean seasonal equipment before using it.
Why you'll regret it if you forget it: Engine failure is a distinct possibility if you fail to check window air conditioners, lawn tractor-mowers, boat engines and your air conditioner compressor (the outdoor unit) before flipping the “on” switch. An engine might be able to cut through dirt and leaves, but animal nests – and worse, remnants of the animals themselves – are another matter entirely. Even if nothing looks amiss, check the wires carefully.
3. Don't forget to: Clean out your dryer vents.
Why you'll regret it if you forget it: A clogged vent wastes energy and poses a fire hazard. If you're picking up a strange scent from your laundry room, or your clothes are taking much longer to dry, these are sure signs that the vent is clogged.
4. Don't forget to: Clean your refrigerator coils.
Why you'll regret it if you forget it: A buildup of dust, dirt, crumbs and cobwebs force the compressor to work longer to keep your refrigerator cool. And this development, in turns, adds to your operating costs and shortens the lifespan of your refrigerator.
5. Don't forget to: Lubricate the springs on your garage door opener and balance the door.
Why you'll regret it if you forget it: Springs have a definite lifespan, but lubricated springs will last much longer. (And as long as you're in the area, you might as well lube the hinges,
Finishing these maintenance tasks is bound to make you feel energized and empowered – and eager to tackle the next set of tasks. If so, turn to a downloadable Home Maintenance Checklist from First Quality Roofing & Insulation. The tasks in this list are bound to rise to the top, too – just like First Quality.
