As a designer, I analyze how a home can best serve my clients. I also recognize that within the homeowner relationship, lies the necessity of supporting the home in which you live.
As we start-off the year, I would encourage you to take a few minutes to place on your calendar dates or appointments for routine home maintenance chores. Apps such as Upkeep Tasks can help to keep your personal calendar free from home care reminders. Whether you hire a handyman service or have a contract with your local HVAC company, keeping your home on a schedule can prevent a host of issues in the future.
Here is a list of what I have found to be some of the more crucial (though certainly not all-inclusive) home items to check and maintain:
Smoke Detector Batteries- every year if alkaline, but there are some 10 year lithium options on the market. It is best to replace them all at one time so as to avoid the ubiquitous “chirping” at 1 am in the morning.
A/C Drain Pan-check at least seasonally (in Texas) to make sure the pan is not damaged or overflowing and add an enzyme to the drip line monthly when AC is in use
Dryer Vent- in addition to cleaning the lint trap in your dryer, have the dryer line cleaned-out professionally every year to prevent build-up in the line and therefore a fire hazard
Air Filter- depending on the system that you have, filters are typically replaced every 90 days (more or less depending on the quality of filter, allergens present, number of people in the house, etc.). If your thermostat does not remind you based on use time, try to check monthly to gauge the frequency with which your filter(s) need to be changed.
Venthood Filter- if you cook frequently, try to clean the filter monthly if not sooner. Metal filters can soak in the sink to de-grease or be placed in the dishwasher for routine maintenance.
A home is a wonderful adventure, and given the proper “housal” support, it can serve you well for many years to come.