Homeownership comes with plenty of surprises, but you don’t have to learn everything the hard way. These 10 home care tips will help you avoid common mistakes new homeowners often make.
How to keep your home running smoothly
Maintaining your home’s major systems doesn’t have to be complicated. With some general knowledge and a little regular attention, you can avoid costly surprises down the road.
1. Understand your home’s major systems
Take the time to learn where your home’s systems are located. This includes the main water shut-off valve, circuit breakers and HVAC equipment. Knowing these locations ahead of time will save you stress during emergencies and make routine maintenance much easier.
2. Find contractors before you need them
Look for licensed, insured contractors (plumber, electrician, roofer, etc.) with solid track records who guarantee their work and parts. Read online reviews and ask friends for recommendations. This way, you’ll already have someone trustworthy lined up when a repair emergency hits.
How can I keep my home safe?
Your home should be a safe haven for you and your family. These tips will help keep your home—and everyone in it—protected.
3. Protect your home from fire
For reliable protection, install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in every bedroom and common area, test them monthly, and replace batteries twice a year. In addition, keep at least one fire extinguisher centrally located on each floor of your home.
4. Guard against break-ins
Make sure all windows and doors have sturdy, working locks. If possible, install a security system with motion sensors for round-the-clock monitoring and emergency dispatch. Another option is a programmable smart lock, which lets you control access remotely and skip the hassle of spare keys.
How to maintain your home
A well-maintained home saves you money and stress in the long run. From building a basic toolkit to boosting curb appeal, here are some essential tips every homeowner should know.
5. Inspect your home regularly
Schedule regular inspections for your roof, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems. An annual checkup is a good baseline, though some systems need more frequent attention. Catching small issues early, like a minor leak or worn wiring, can prevent costly repairs down the road.
6. Build a basic toolkit
Even if you’re not the handy type, keep a basic toolbox on hand for everyday fixes. Stock it with essentials like a tape measure, flashlight, adjustable wrench, plunger, screwdriver set, hammer and duct tape. You’ll be glad to have them when small repairs come up.
7. Keep up your home’s curb appeal
A well-kept exterior makes a lasting impression. Mow your lawn regularly, trim overgrown trees and bushes, and keep walkways clear. You can also touch up peeling or faded paint on your siding, trim and front door. Small, consistent upkeep keeps your home looking its best year-round.
8. Vacuum around your appliances
Dust and pet hair can build up around appliances, especially your refrigerator and water heater. Vacuum these areas regularly to keep them running smoothly for years. If you prefer, you can always hire a service technician to do the job.
9. Maintain your garage doors
Lubricating your garage door once a year prevents metal parts from wearing out, stops loud noises, and helps the door open and close smoothly. Consult your owner’s manual to find the correct type of lubricant for your garage door.
10. Keep a home maintenance calendar
Create a yearly maintenance schedule to stay on top of seasonal tasks, like cleaning gutters, servicing your HVAC system, checking smoke detectors and winterizing pipes. Setting reminders helps you catch small jobs before they turn into bigger, more expensive problems.