As a homeowner, it is important to conduct maintenance checks around your house at least twice a year as a way to make sure everything is up-to-date and safe. Most of these tasks are to examine home systems and appliances that may deteriorate over time, which may lead to serious and expensive issues. In an effort to make this process easier, we’ve compiled a checklist of things that are important to inspect every six months as a way to avoid any neglect.
- Basement & Foundation– It is important to examine your basement and the foundation for any cracks or moisture. If you find either of these, talk to a professional about the severity of the issue.
- Toilet– When looking at your toilet, investigate for leaks in the water feed, and tank bottom.
- Interior Caulking and Grout- Check around tubs, showers, and sinks to inspect the state of the caulking. If you notice the caulking is pulling away, scrape it out, then make sure to re-caulk it yourself or hire someone who can.
- Water Heater– For this, you can either do it yourself or hire a plumber. First, you will need to drain water from the heater until you no longer see sediment. Next, inspect flue assembly (gas heater), and for any leaks or corrosion.
- Clothes Washer– Check hoses for leaks and clean out water inlet filters.
- Clothes Dryer- Lint builds up, so take this time to vacuum lint from ducts and other areas around the dryer.
- Refrigerator– Around the summer, or as the weather warms up, clean the drain hole and pan. In addition, wash the door gasket and vacuum condenser coils.
- Wiring– Do an examination of your house for any exposed wiring, frayed cords or wires. If you see anything looks dangerous, call an electrician.
- Exhaust Fans– Wash all fan blades since dust and debris builds up over time.
- Range Hood Fan- Wash these blades around the house.
- Sink– Check for leakage by checking faucets, hose bibs, and supply valves.
- Bathroom– Check for leaks around/ under toilets, showers, tubs, and sinks.
Breaker Box– Every month you should trip circuit breakers and ground fault interrupters to guarantee proper protection.
