To be a good homeowner, upkeep and improvements are part of the job. By taking care of your property, you help to maintain its value and make the home more comfortable. Here is a list of monthly home maintenance tasks to help you keep your house healthy and safe.

Unclog Drains

The bathroom drains collect hair and debris that will lead to clogs. At least once a month, use a drain snake or other cleaning tool to remove any materials stuck in your drains. Your shower will drain faster and you’ll improve the health of your plumbing system.

Clean HVAC Filters as Part of Your Monthly Home Maintenance

The filters in your HVAC system trap contaminants that affect your indoor air quality. When filters are clogged, air cannot flow freely through the system and your HVAC unit has to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Change the filters monthly, especially if you or a family member suffers from allergies,

Vacuum Air Vents

The vents are also part of your HVAC system. Over time, dust, mold, pet fur, and other debris can collect inside the vents. Clean the vent covers by wiping them with a microfiber cloth to catch dust. Remove the covers and vacuum inside the air vents. This is another home maintenance task that will improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.

Monthly Home Maintenance Includes Cleaning the Disposal

The food waste disposal in your sink gets dirty and may develop an unpleasant odor. Clean it monthly by tossing a few ice cubes into the disposal and grinding them. Next pour ½ cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. This will help kill germs and freshen the disposal.

Check for Leaks

With time, leaks around the home can cause problems. Take a look under sinks for damp spots and mold growth and pay attention to toilets to make sure they’re not running. Listen for sounds in the walls that could indicate plumbing problems or leaks. Water damage can be costly to repair and affects the structure of your home. It’s important to repair leaks quickly to help prevent extensive damage.

Test Smoke Detectors

Once a month, test the smoke alarms in your home. Each device will have a test button that you can press to hear an alarm. If the device doesn’t sound, replace the batteries, and test it again. Smoke detectors should be replaced with new devices about every 10 years.

Aarrow Home Inspections provides home inspection services to customers in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Contact us to request an appointment.