Homeownership is an investment in your future. As with all investments, your home requires constant vigilance and a little maintenance along the way to protect its value. When you buy a home, the following are ten skills you should master as soon as you sign on the dotted line.
- Gutter Clean-Out
You should clean your home’s gutters of leaves and debris twice a year. A leaf blower, hose, and broom handle can make this job a little bit easier. Cleaning the gutters help protect your roof and siding from water infiltration. It also helps ensure proper drainage away from the foundation. - Adjusting the Water Temperature
Learning how to set the thermostat on your water heater can generate significant energy savings. Most homeowners find that 120 degrees are sufficient for their needs. Raise the temp when company comes, lower it when they go home. If you do this, you will have plenty of hot water, and your energy bills won’t go through the roof. - Air Filter Replacement
Air filters do more than protect the air quality within the home. They are an integral component of your heating system that regulates the flow of air into the unit. When the filter is clogged, the airflow is reduced. This diminishes operational efficiency and can shorten the lifespan of the unit. Depending on the filter and pollution levels, you should change the air filters every 30-90 days. - Faucet/Toilet Repair
Leaky faucets can drain your wallet. Learning how to tighten the valves, replace rubber washers, and adjust the water flow can help you stem the flow of cash to the water company. The same is true for toilets that can flow uncontrolled when the float, chain, or flapper within the toilet tank break. - Natural Gas Shut-Off
It is crucial to know how to shut the gas off in an emergency. When natural gas leaks occur, it is critical to vacate the home immediately, contact the gas company, and turn the shut-off valve which is typically located on the outdoor meter. - Controlling the Power
Your circuit breakers should be labeled, and you should know where the grounded outlets are within your home. It is a good idea to experiment and determine which breakers control which outlets, and the capacity of each of these outlets. This can help you prevent overloading the breaker as you settle in and unpack. - Landscaping 101
You should know how to mow the grass, trim the shrubs, rake leaves, etc. You will also want to learn how to care for the plants, flowers, trees, etc. within your existing landscape. - Sealing Air Leaks
Air leaks around doors and windows can suck your wallet dry. Learning how to detect air leaks and apply weather stripping or caulk is a valuable homeowner skill worth mastering. Sealing air leaks can save you up to 15% on your heating and cooling bills throughout the year. - Appliance Maintenance
Refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, washers, and dryers all require regular maintenance. This is outlined within the owner’s manuals which you should keep together for easy reference. Failing to perform these maintenance tasks can void the warranty, so it is not something you want to ignore. - Painting & Patching Walls
You don’t have to become Michelangelo, but you will want to know how to paint over scratches and repair holes. Learning how to fix the damage and paint over your handiwork can keep each room within your home in pristine condition.
