Home Maintenance Tips
No matter where you live or the type of home you have, proper home maintenance can protect your home’s value, keep your home in working order, prevent costly repairs, and maintain energy efficiency. In Arizona, extreme summer heat, sun exposure, and dust storms provide some unique maintenance requirements, especially when it comes to items like HVAC systems. Below are some maintenance tips to keep your home in good working order.
HVAC System
Have your air conditioning system inspected at least yearly by a maintenance professional.
Periodically clean condenser coils and keep the area around your air conditioning unit clear of debris.
Change air filters at least once every three months. During the summer months when using your air conditioning more often, you may want to consider changing every month.
Inspect your thermostat to ensure proper operation. Install a programmable thermostat if you do not already have one to reduce energy costs when you are away from home.
Clean vents.
Plumbing
Drain your water heater at least yearly to remove any sediment build up.
Test the air pressure relief valve on your water heater every couple of months to ensure it is in working order.
Clean and decalcify showerheads and aerators on your faucets.
Check faucets, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures for leaks.
Clean out sink drains.
Check water softener and add softener pellets as needed.
Electrical
Inspect the circuit breaker to ensure proper operation. Frequent trips may mean there is a problem.
Test ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) by pressing the “Test” button.
Keep electrical outlets clear of debris.
Appliances
Vacuum out the dryer vent.
Clean the oven.
Clean range hood filter.
Check door gaskets around your refrigerator and freezer.
Windows and Doors
Check for any cracked windows or damaged
Clean tracks if you have sliding windows or doors and lubricate any moving parts.
Check the caulking/sealant around windows and weather-stripping around exterior doors. Repair any sources of leaks to keep cooling costs down.
Ensure door locks are in working order.
Outside of Home
Check the foundation, retaining walls, and stucco for cracks.
Check for foundation walls for signs of termites.
If you have a landscape irrigation system, check sprinkler lines for leaks and make any necessary repairs.
Inspect roof for damaged roof tiles or shingles.
Check concrete on driveways, steps, etc. for cracks.
Inspect exterior paint for wear and water damage.
Clean windows.
Miscellaneous
Test and replace batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.
Inspect interior walls and ceilings for cracks or signs of water damage.
