Home Maintenance
Regular home maintenance can save you thousands of dollars every years by catching issues before they become problems and improving the efficiency of your home.
Here’s a list of annual and seasonal tasks I recommend to all my clients.
Annual
Water Heater Tank
Prevents mineral buildup from hard water, which can reduce tank lifespan and overall energy efficiency.
How: Drain the tank via the bottom valve until the water runs clear of white calcium flakes or sediment.
Dryer Vent
Prevents house fires caused by lint ignition and reduces drying time/energy costs.
How: Disconnect the duct from the back of the dryer and use a brush or vacuum to clear the entire length of the vent.
SMOKE & CO DETectors
Vital for life safety, especially during winter months when gas wall heaters or furnaces are active.
How: Press test buttons, replace 9V batteries, and check the manufacture date (replace units every 10 years).
FOundation Vents
Prevents pest entry (rodents/insects) and ensures proper crawlspace ventilation to prevent moisture/mold.
How: Inspect exterior vent screens for tears or gaps; clear away anything blocking airflow to the crawlspace.
Garage door
Reduces strain on the opener motor and prevents premature wear on rollers and hinges.
How: Apply a lithium or silicone-based spray to the rollers, hinges, and springs; wipe away excess to avoid attracting grit.
AC COndenser Cleaning
Ensures the system can handle triple-digit heatwaves without tripping breakers or failing.
How: Shut off the exterior disconnect and remove dust/pollen from the aluminum fins using a garden hose and vacuum.
Gutters and roof
Prepares the home for heavy winter "Atmospheric River" rains to prevent interior leaks.
How: Remove leaves and debris from gutters and valleys; ensure downspouts divert water 3+ feet from the foundation.
Windows and doors
Blocks wind-driven dust and maintains indoor temperatures during extreme heat or cold.
How: Inspect and replace brittle weatherstripping or cracked exterior caulking around all entry points.
Fridge
Prevents compressor overheating and reduces energy consumption by allowing heat to escape efficiently.
How: Use a coil brush or vacuum to remove dust from the black coils located at the back or bottom of the unit.
Seasonal
HVAC Filters
Prevents mineral buildup from hard water, which can reduce tank lifespan and overall energy efficiency.
How: Drain the tank via the bottom valve until the water runs clear of white calcium flakes or sediment.
DIshwasher Drain Filter
Prevents standing water, foul odors, and ensures dishes are cleaned with filtered water.
How: Twist out the cylindrical filter at the bottom of the tub, rinse under hot water, and scrub away trapped debris.