Summertime is a great time to make small repairs. For example, replacing the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be done monthly. Home Depot has all the tools and materials you need to look after and maintain your home, with a Home Depot Money Saving Coupon from We Are Coupons, looking after your home costs less.
5. Inspect the Water Heater
While water heaters are often tucked away in the utility room, regular inspections can help avoid costly and damaging leaks. This month, check the temperature and pressure relief valve, and make sure it is in good working order.
Also, make sure the piping that runs to and from the water heater is the correct size. If the piping is too small, it can cause back-drafting that can release deadly carbon monoxide in your home. This can lead to fires and water damage.
A water heater should be located in a well ventilated room. If you see signs of condensation or soot around the water heater, it could indicate an issue. You should also visually inspect the venting to make sure it is in good working order and not leaking. If it is, you may need to install a new gas line or a new air gap. It’s best to consult with a plumbing expert before attempting repairs yourself.
6. Inspect the Electrical System
An electrical inspection is a complete checkup of all the wiring and outlets in your home. It's important to have one conducted regularly to prevent serious problems in the future. These issues can include circuit breaker overload, damaged wiring, and dangerous back-stab connections.
Electricians look for many different things during an electrical inspection. For example, they make sure that all electrical boxes are flush with the wall and large enough to accommodate the number of wire conductors and devices they will hold. They also look for GFCI protection on outlets and circuit breakers that are located outdoors or near water sources. They also check to make sure that kitchen small-appliance circuits are protected with AFCI protection.
They also inspect the nature of any old knob-and-tube wiring and recommend replacing it with copper to reduce fire risks. They will also inspect any "push-in" connections at outlets to ensure that they make less contact with the wires than traditional receptacles. This reduces the likelihood of a back-stab connection that could cause an electrical fire later.
7. Inspect the Plumbing System
It’s important to get your plumbing system inspected at least once every two years. However, some homes need inspections more frequently due to tree roots, which can damage sewer and water lines.
During a plumbing inspection, the inspector will check the water heater, washing machine and dishwasher for leaks and clogs. They will also examine the sink traps, faucets and aerators to make sure they are clean. They will also test the pressure of the water and ensure it is adequate.
If you’re planning to buy a home, it’s a good idea to have the plumbing system inspected before you close on the property. This will help you avoid expensive plumbing repairs down the road. A good inspector will be able to point out any problems that may require immediate attention, such as a faulty toilet or an overflowing drain. They will also make sure that the pipes are properly insulated in cold weather and that the well is protected from freezing.
8. Inspect the Appliances
If you notice any electrical issues such as flickering lights, frequent tripping of the circuit breakers or power outages, it is a good idea to schedule an appliance inspection. An appliance inspector can check for problems with appliances such as dishwashers that lack anti-tip devices or air-gaps in drain-hoses, stoves with faulty knobs and ovens without a fire suppression system.
Additionally, it is a good time to inspect the caulking around doors and windows and replace it where needed. It is also important to remove lint from dryer vents and vacuum hoses.
Other tasks that may be beneficial to perform include changing HVAC filters, shutting off water spigots for winter and cleaning the gutters. Taking care of these essential home maintenance tasks this month will help you keep your house in top condition, save money on energy bills and protect one of the largest investments you’ll ever make. Download a free printable June home maintenance checklist.
9. Inspect the Interior
Re-caulking around windows and doors can help prevent water leaks in the future. This is an inexpensive maintenance task that can save a home owner thousands of dollars in potential damage.
Check that fire extinguishers are properly rated and still functional. This will prevent an insurance company from denying an insurance claim based on expired or incorrectly rated equipment.
Visually inspect the foundation for signs of cracks or settling. This can be an early sign of a foundation issue and should be addressed quickly to avoid costly repairs.
Ensure that gutters are free of debris and are draining properly. Poor drainage can lead to wood rot, siding damage and foundation issues.
Check that shingles aren’t loose or missing, and that the roof is well-ventilated. This will reduce the amount of energy needed to keep a home at a comfortable temperature and reduce utility bills.
Remove screens from exterior windows and add weather protection. This will improve energy efficiency and make it harder for animals to enter the house looking for warmth or food.
