Tired of spending thousands on repairs? These 5 home maintenance tasks can save you money & keep your home running smoothly. Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is here to help! Let’s face it, homeownership comes with its fair share of responsibilities. One of the biggest (and often most expensive) is keeping your home in tip-top shape. According to a 2023 HomeAdvisor report, the average homeowner spends around $2,500 annually on repairs and maintenance. But what if you could significantly reduce that number?
The secret lies in preventative maintenance. By taking care of your home through regular home maintenance tasks, you can avoid costly repairs down the road. Here are 5 simple tasks that can save you money in the long run, all brought to you by Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, your trusted partner for all your home service needs.
1. Conquer Clogged Drains with Preventative Measures
Clogged drains are a c
ommon household nuisance, but they can also lead to bigger problems if left unaddressed. A simple clog can turn into a burst pipe if not dealt with promptly, resulting in a major repair bill. Here’s how to prevent clogged drains and save money:
- Install drain screens: These handy gadgets catch hair, soap scum, and other debris before they enter the drain, preventing clogs in the first place.
- Limit what goes down the drain: Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the drain. These can solidify and contribute to clogs over time.
- Regularly clean your drains: Pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down your drains can help break down minor clogs and keep them flowing freely. For tougher clogs, consider using a drain snake specifically designed for household use.
By taking these simple steps, you can avoid the need for professional drain cleaning services, saving you hundreds of dollars. If you do encounter a stubborn clog, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric offers fast and reliable drain clearing services to get your pipes flowing smoothly again.
2. Embrace the Power of DIY Air Filter Replacement
Your HVAC system works tirelessly to keep your home comfortable year-round. But just like any other machine, it needs regular maintenance to function efficiently. One of the most crucial home maintenance tasks for your HVAC system is replacing the air filter.
Here’s why air filter replacement is so important:
- Improved Air Quality: A clean air filter traps dust, pollen, and other allergens, improving indoor air quality and reducing respiratory problems for you and your family.
- Enhanced Efficiency: A clogged air filter forces your HVAC system to work harder to circulate air, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. Replacing the filter regularly ensures your system runs efficiently, saving you money on your energy costs. The EPA recommends replacing your air filter every 1-3 months, depending on your home environment and type of filter.
- Prevents Costly Repairs: A neglected air filter can put a strain on your HVAC system, leading to premature wear and tear and potentially expensive repairs. Regular replacement extends the lifespan of your HVAC system, saving you money in the long run.
Replacing your air filter is a simple home maintenance task that anyone can do. Most filters are readily available at hardware stores and can be replaced in just a few minutes. If you’re unsure about the location or type of air filter your system requires, consult your owner’s manual or call Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric for assistance.
3. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters Regularly
Your gutters pla
y a vital role in protecting your home from water damage. They channel rainwater away from your foundation, preventing leaks, erosion, and basement flooding. However, clogged gutters can’t do their job effectively.
Here’s why regular gutter cleaning is important:
- Prevents Water Damage: Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and pool around your foundation, leading to cracks, leaks, and even mold growth. The cost of water damage repairs can be significant, so preventative gutter cleaning is key.
- Protects Your Roof: Overflowing gutters can damage your roof shingles and underlying structures. Left unaddressed, this can lead to costly roof repairs or even replacement.
- Reduces Mosquito Breeding: Clogged gutters with stagnant water can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Regular cleaning helps keep these pests at bay.
Ideally, you should clean your gutters twice a year – once in the spring after winter debris has accumulated and once in the fall after leaves have fallen. If you’re uncomfortable cleaning your gutters yourself, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric offers professional gutter cleaning services. Our technicians will safely remove debris, ensure proper drainage, and identify any potential problems with your gutters or downspouts.
4. Schedule Annual HVAC System Checkups
Just like your car needs regular tune-ups, your HVAC system benefits greatly from annual maintenance checks. These checkups, performed by a qualified technician from Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, can help identify and address minor issues before they become major problems.
Here’s what an
annual HVACcheckup typically entails:
- Inspection: The technician will inspect your system for any signs of wear and tear, loose connections, or potential problems.
- Cleaning: They will clean key components like the blower fan and coils to improve efficiency and airflow.
- Lubrication: Lubricating moving parts ensures smooth operation and reduces the risk of friction and wear.
- Calibration: The technician will calibrate your thermostat to ensure your system is heating or cooling your home to the desired temperature efficiently.
The benefits of annual HVAC maintenance are numerous:
- Prevents Breakdowns: Catching minor problems early can prevent them from escalating into expensive repairs later.
- Improves Efficiency: A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy costs.
- Extends Lifespan: Regular maintenance helps your HVAC system last longer, saving you from the cost of premature replacement.
By scheduling an annual HVAC checkup with Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, you can ensure your system runs smoothly, efficiently, and avoids costly breakdowns.
5. Don’t Neglect Your Water Heater
Your water heater works tirelessly to provide you with hot showers and baths. But like any appliance, it needs some TLC to keep functioning properly. Here are some simple home maintenance tasks for your water heater:
- Drain and flush annually: Draining and flushing your water heater removes sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and shorten its lifespan.
- Inspect the pressure relief valve: This valve is a safety feature that releases pressure if it gets too high. Test the valve annually to ensure it’s functioning properly.
- Check the anode rod: The anode rod attracts corrosion, protecting your water heater tank. Inspect it periodically and replace it when necessary.
Follow these steps to make your water heater last longer and save money on repairs or having to replace it early. If you don’t want to do it yourself, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric can help with water heater maintenance. This will ensure that your hot water continues to work well.
By incorporating these home maintenance tasks into your routine, you can save yourself a significant amount of money in the long run. Remember, preventative maintenance is an investment in your home that will pay off for years to come. For all your plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical needs, Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your next service appointment!