Home ownership is an exciting endeavor, whether it is your first home or fifth, each home has a personality all its own. Here you will find some helpful tips to maintain your home.
Plumbing Problems
It’s never fun when water is running everywhere or you come home to an unexpected wet mess. Some basic maintenance can go a long way toward preventing messy problems. Look under your sinks regularly to see if there are any leaks. Below the sink is not somewhere that we generally spend a lot of time and it can often seem like a naturally damp space. Check to see if there are obvious leaks, or if there are puddles below the pipes or biologic growth.
If you find a leak, a crescent wrench can usually tighten the fittings and prevent the line from blowing off. If you see a water stain and are unsure if it is new or from a former leak, place a paper towel or colored piece of paper on top of the stain and check back later.
Blowing Hot and Cold
Image via Flickr by Artep ^_^
Your HVAC system is integral to your comfort at home. It can be the deciding factor in whether you are sweating or wearing sweats. We all know that our HVAC filter should be changed regularly, so let’s look at some other ways we can help to keep our system in good running order.
Check your vents for holes or gaps and repair them with aluminum tape. If the damage is extensive enough, you may want to replace the section of ductwork. The outside unit can benefit from being covered in the winter. You can place a board over the top or wrap the entire unit tightly. Be wary of just covering the unit loosely as animals may find it appealing. A routine inspection can let you know if there is anything wrong with your system or if repairs need to be made.
Keeping Things Tight
Loose seals can cause a number of problems from drafts, leaks, and pests. There are seals around your doors and windows to restrict air flow, block rain, and keep pests out of your home. To check for a broken or loose seal, close the door or window and look for light visible around the sill or frame. Any light visible is a gap that needs to be filled.
There is a rubber seal around the door that is easily replaced and often fixes this problem. Windows can be a little trickier, you can check for light, but the repair may require professional help. The window may need to be reset or replaced. You can also check for drafts in your home by closing all the doors and windows, getting your hand wet and feeling for drafts around the doors and windows.
Keeping your home in running order should not have you running in circles. You can prevent major problems with a little preventive maintenance and don’t be afraid to ask a professional for help when you need it.
