While home maintenance can seem like an overwhelming job, it actually doesn’t require a lot of time, money, or training. If you’re looking to make your home more efficient and save yourself some money, keep these quick home management tasks in mind.
1. Fix Water Leaks
The EPA says that nearly 10 percent of homes have leaks that waste over 90 gallons of water every day, and that fixing water leaks can save homeowners around 10 percent on their water bills. If you’re wondering if your toilet has a leak, put some red food coloring in the tank and wait 10 minutes. If the red water starts to show up in the bowl, you have a leak. If you have a leaky faucet, this is usually because of a worn out washer that’s easy to replace. A leaky shower head sometimes just requires tightening the connection with a wrench.
2. Seal Air Leaks
Air leaks around windows and doors are a major reason behind high energy bills in the winter and summer. Every few months you should check the caulk around your windows and doors. If it appears cracked or dry, remove it and replace it with a new layer. Sealing air leaks around your house can help you save up to 20 percent on your energy costs.
3. Inspect Your Gutters
Your gutters main purpose is to redirect rainwater coming from your roof and take it away from your foundation. When debris clogs your gutters it can lead to wood rot, cracked foundations, flooded basements, insect and pest infestations, and damaged landscaping. To make sure this doesn’t happen to your home, clean your gutters at least once every year by removing all debris and rinsing them out with a hose. Then make sure that all the downspouts are correctly positioned away from your house and landscaping.
4. Maintain Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system keeps your house comfortable throughout the year, and you don’t want to find out there’s a problem during a cold snap or heat wave. There are several easy steps you can take to make sure your HVAC system runs efficiently and properly, including changing the filters, using a programmable thermostat, and making sure that nothing is blocking the air intake. Not only will taking care of your HVAC system cut down on your chances of needing a major repair, it will also help lower your energy bills.
5. Check Your Roof
You should inspect your roof at least once a year and after any major storm. If you have an asphalt roof, check your gutters for granules of asphalt and look for bare spots in the shingles. These are signs that the roof is aging and needs replaced. If you have wooden shingles, look for evidence of warping or dry rot. If it looks like you have damage to over one-third of the shingles, it’s time to replace your roof.
By taking care of these maintenance jobs around your house, you can reduce your energy usage, make these items last longer, and save money.
