Well maintained homes tend to run like a top. Taking the time to keep up with maintenance saves time and money. It might seem like a lot of work to do regular maintenance but the costs for waiting can be very high. A lot of expensive repairs can be avoided or found early thanks to routine maintenance. It’s time to stop putting off important tasks.
Home maintenance varies. Some maintenance is daily while other things are done once per month, as season’s change, or once per year. The key is to make maintenance a priority, so you don’t become overwhelmed or have an unexpected and outrageous expense.
Use this guide as a helpful tool for maintenance
Annual Maintenance
- Clean gutters
- Trim trees
- Inspect roof
- Inspect dryer vent
- Clean refrigerator coils
- Inspect heating and air
- Inspect water heater
- Weatherize home (fall)
Your home will have specific needs that you can add to the list as well. Taking the time to do annual maintenance will help you determine if an appliance is failing or if there are hazards that need attention. Failing to do annual inspections and maintenance can result in leaks, fires, or other hazards. Many things can be repaired easily if found early. It can save a lot of time and money to catch things before they become a problem.
Monthly Maintenance
- Clean yard thoroughly
- Change filters (A/C, water, etc…)
- Maintain septic tank
- Wash windows
- Deep clean appliances
- Seasonal maintenance
Your home has different needs depending on the time of year. Seasonal maintenance should be included each month. Whether it’s spraying for pests or weeds in the spring and summer or bringing outdoor furniture out or back in when the weather changes. Many monthly maintenance chores help extend the life of your home and appliances. Taking time to service appliances monthly can keep things running well and avoid breakdowns or things wearing out too soon.
Weekly maintenance
- Washing bedding
- Deep cleaning bathrooms
- Clean and restock pantry
- Dusting
- Vacuuming
- Clean windows
Your individual needs may vary, but most homes require the same types of maintenance on a weekly basis. Staying on top of deep cleaning and food storage can help make the rest of the days of the week easier to manage. Putting things off can lead to an avalanche of chores that feel out of control.
Daily maintenance
- Beds made
- Kitchen tidy
- Bathroom tidy
- Remove clutter from main spaces
- Garbage taken out
- Tidy car
Your daily maintenance is some of the most important. Keeping things in order on a daily basis helps your home stay clean and feel peaceful. It’s important to include time in your schedule so you can attend to the needs of your home. Often times when people feel tight on time, they put off daily chores which can add up and cause things to become chaotic.
Use these lists as a guideline or starting off point for your home’s maintenance. You can also find useful checklists online or make one of your own. Stop putting off important tasks and you’ll feel accomplished and more peaceful at home.