When you are shopping for a new place to live, there are several important things to consider.
In our previous article, we discussed the first four of ten key maintenance steps for homeowners and home renters. If you are currently considering purchasing or renting a house, it is vital to consider the time and skills required to properly maintain it.
In our first post in this series, we discussed four steps, including:
- Regular and Proper HVAC Maintenance
- Roof Inspection and Gutter Cleaning
- Checking and Replacing Old Windows
- Lawn Care and Yard Maintenance
In this article, we will continue our list, with six more maintenance steps homeowners and renters should practice every spring and summer.
7) Pressure Wash Your Driveway, Siding and Deck
Throughout the year, rain, pollen, leaves, and wind contribute to the accumulation of dirt and debris on your home, deck, and driveway. For both aesthetics and preservation of your home’s siding, your deck, and your driveway, it is important to have them pressure washed regularly.
8) Flush Your Home’s Water Heater
Maintaining your water heater is key to making sure you have hot water when you shower or wash dishes. To help ensure it reaches its expected lifespan and runs as efficiently as possible, it is important to flush it once or twice per year. To flush your water heater, follow these steps:
- Shut down the unit’s power and allow it to cool.
- Connect a hose to the faucet at the bottom of the water heater. Place the other end of the hose in a five-gallon bucket.
- Open the faucet and allow several gallons to drain into bucket.
- Empty the contents of the bucket. If there is an excessive amount of sediment in the bucket, repeat the process until the water is clear.
- Restore power to the unit and allow water to reheat before attempting to use hot water systems.
Like the heating and air conditioning system, it is vital to find out as much information as possible regarding the previous maintenance of your water heater in your potential future home.
9) Spring Cleaning and Honey-Do Lists
As you clean and declutter after winter, you will likely find a host of honey-do, handyman tasks to perform, from painting to minor repairs. If you own or rent a home, it is important to do perform these maintenance tasks as soon as possible; otherwise, minor inconveniences can become major repair concerns.
10) Check Plumbing Pipes and Appliances for Leaks
As the weather warms here in Greenwood, SC, make sure you check your plumbing pipes and appliances for damage and leaks. One running toilet can waste thousands of gallons of water in a single month.
11) Make Sure Yard’s Drainage Systems are Performing Properly
When heavy rains fall due to some storms and inland tropical systems, it is vital for rain runoff to drain from your yard and away from your home’s foundation. Improper drainage can lead to excess water in your home’s crawlspace or basement.
12) Beware of Interior Moisture and Mold
Moisture from improper drainage, plumbing leaks, water damage and humidity can lead to the development of mold and mildew. Mold is dangerous for you family’s health, potentially leading to allergies and upper respiratory issues. If you suspect mold, it is important to talk with a mold remediation company. If you’re renting a house, make sure you know for what your landlord is responsible regarding the remediation of mold.
If you own or are renting a house, maintenance is key to preserving the longevity, and maximizing the energy efficiency of your home. If you are researching whether to rent a home or apartment, or purchase a home, it is vital to consider the time and expense of maintenance, before you make your final decision.