Change Filters In Your Home’s Appliances

All modern homes these days come equipped with a dazzling array of appliances to make our lives easier. (Sometimes) On many appliances it is necessary to regularly inspect and change the filter when necessary.  Changing or cleaning filters will extend the life of these costly machines, and help them run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills.  You would be surprised just how many items in your home contain a filter that needs either regular inspection and cleaning or replacement.  Appliances such as furnaces, water filtration systems, dryers, refrigerators and more need your attention for maximum life span and warranty protection.  This work is not difficult or technical.  And if you don’t know how to access or change a particular filter?  No problem, there are plenty of how to videos on the internet.  Just enter the make and model number of the appliance you are working on in your search, and many quick, high quality videos will be made available.  Here is a great example.

Clean and Vacuum Your Carpets

This seems like a no brainer, doesn’t it?  But you would be surprised how many homeowners, even in beautiful Bend Oregon, neglect this important task.  You might be surprised to know that dirt is actually tiny bits of glass.  When these particles are walked on, they rapidly break down the fibers of your carpets, causing your rugs to break down prematurely.  Most carpet manufacturers recommend a carpet cleaning at least once per year.  If you aren’t in the mood or don’t have the budget to hire a professional, many big box stores and grocery centers rent residential carpet cleaning machines.  Lowe’s is a prime example.  They rent a BISSELL machine that works great.  The link takes you to the sales page, but it’s a good source of info to see what you are getting into.

Clean The Coil On Your Refrigerator

This is a task you may never have heard of.  But it’s important.  A dirty, clogged coil will cause the refrigerator to work harder, and break down sooner.  Most homeowners never do this.  That’s why their refrigerator will break down before yours.  Cleaning a coil is easier than you think.  Again, thank YouTube and all the wonderful do-it-yourself videos that are available free of charge.  Here is a good one.

Recaulk Exterior Cracks And Openings

One of the biggest enemies your house will encounter is water intrusion.  This must be avoided at all costs.  Thats why inspecting your home once per year for areas that need caulking is vitally important.  This prevents water from getting underneath the siding, where it doesn’t belong, and increases your home’s energy efficiency.  It’s a quick and easy home project, and the supplies are very affordable.  Just choose a paintable exterior, silicone or silicone-latex caulking and fill those gaps!

Trim Your Trees And Landscaping

There are so many great reasons to do this.  A heavy limb hanging over your house’s roof could break and cause major damage.  Or it could provide a rodent, (think squirrels, racoons, ect) with direct access to your roof.  In addition, vegetation close too or touching your house will introduce unwanted moisture to the structure.  Sometimes it’s best to hire a professional, especially in the case of tree trimming or removal.  But much of the needed trimming and cutting can be done by a diligent homeowner.  Just be sure to wear proper safety equipment like eye and hand protection, and practice safe cutting techniques.

Switch Light Bulbs To LED Bulbs

Light bulbs go out.  And you are going to replace them anyway.  Why not consider screwing in a new LED bulb.  LED lights are more expensive, but the advantages are numerous.  Here are a few:

• Greater Energy Efficiency
• Longer Life Span
• Environmentally Friendly
• Safer

There are more reasons to go with LED bulbs, but you get the idea.

Check Water Connections

I’ve seen firsthand the damage that can be done from a small leak.  A tiny, consistent drip coming from one of your home’s water connections can cause thousands of dollars in damage.  Oftentimes, homeowners are completely unaware.  That’s why we recommend checking your connections every once in a while.  Grab a flashlight and visually inspect connections around toilets, sinks, washing machines and hot water heaters.  If you have a leak, take action immediately.  This is a painless process that anyone can do.

Owning a home is a lot of work.  But knowing you are preventing disaster makes it all worthwhile.