For most, seasonal home maintenance can be the last thing on our mind at times. That’s why, it’s good to revisit a home-safety checklist every 6 months to ensure that we are not letting things slip out of control and cause problems.
For example, if you have a wall outlet that is giving you problems, instead of not using that outlet, it makes sense to look at the underlying cause of the problem. It could be a larger electrical issue that if, investigated and dealt with now, could save your pocketbook down the road.
Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, and you should always consult a professional, however here are some of our top items that we recommend checking up on regularly.
Things to check every 6 months…
Smoke Detectors
Smoke Detectors that are properly installed and maintained play a critical role in reducing home fire deaths and injuries. Clean your smoke detectors every six months. Bonus points if you change the batteries!
Dryer Vents
Dirty or clogged dryer vents and ductwork don’t just reduce your dryer’s performance. The combination of heat and accumulated dryer lint and dust can lead to a fire hazard. We recommend cleaning your dryer vents out every six months.
Furnace Filters
It is generally inexpensive to replace your furnace filter. Not only does this increase the efficiency of your furnace unit, thus reducing electric costs, but it also helps to maintain a cleaner breathing environment for both you and your household.
Plumbing
Checking your plumbing at least twice a year can help prevent a major water disaster in your home. This goes beyond just the toilet and kitchen sink. It’s also goo to check sump pumps, crawl spaces for leaks, seals around toilets and faucets as well as remembering to shut off water to exterior lines in winter.
Appliances
This includes some common sense things like checking your refrigerator seals for leaks, water and ice lines, stove and all it’s connections and dishwasher and it’s water lines. Also check your microwave, exhaust fan/hood vent and washing machine/dryer vent.
Security Alarm
Not only does a home security system protect your home, but it may even lower your homeowners insurance premiums. It’s a good idea to check it every six months to ensure that it is working properly.
Electrical Outlets
Electrical problems can be a huge issue, especially if your home is older. Help prevent a fire, or worse by routinely checking all outlets and promptly seeking help if any of them are working improperly.
Things to check every 12 months…
Again, this is not comprehensive, and some things you will need to check sooner, but here are things we recommend to check every twelve months or less to keep your home in tip top shape.
- Check and test your furnace
- Check and test your air conditioner
- Clear away debris from exterior A/C unit
- Check and test your water heater
- Check and test your water softener
- Check and repair all loose siding, soffits and fascia
- Clean out your gutters and downspouts and repair loose ones
- Check foundation, sidewalks and driveways for cracks or damage
- Remove dead trees, dead shrubs and plants
- Inspect roof, looking for loose or missing shingles and debris
- Check and have your fireplace/chimney cleaned
- Repair or replace damaged/rotting fence
- Trim branches that hang over your house
- Check and reseal all windows and doors
- Check all steps for safety/tripping hazards
Did you find this helpful? Anything you’d add to this list? Let us know on our facebook page!
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Call us today at: (920) 596-3355
Sandie (Sandra) Wilz is the owner and an agent at Eastling Insurance in Manawa, Wisconsin. She is passionate about educating clients and prospects on what their insurance coverages mean and how having the correct coverage can give the client the peace of mind they would expect from their insurance protection. Sandie can be reached at (920) 596-3355.