5 New Year Home Maintenance Tips

By Fran Campbell - January 10, 2017

At the beginning of a new year, it can be a good idea to assess your home and evaluate its condition. Let your home's appliances and systems be your guide as you take notes of possible home improvements and updates that could help get your home running more smoothly. Fran Campbell Team knows houses inside and out and are your specialists in all things "home." Listed below are some home systems and details to evaluate in the new year to keep you home well-maintained and operating efficiently.

HVAC

Missouri weather can take its toll on a home's HVAC (heating, ventilating and air conditioning) system. January is the perfect month to replace disposable filters or wash permanent ones in your home's system. Filters should be replaced or washed regularly. Heat vents are susceptible to dust, dirt, pet hair and other particles that float through the air, vacuuming the vents and ducts helps to keep your home's HVAC system clean and free of indoor pollutants. As you tend to your system, check for any leaks in your home's air ducts.

Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are important safety features of your home. Checking alarms and detectors is especially important when cold temperatures in the winter leave homes sealed up for long periods of time. Inspect, clean and test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and be sure to replace any that are faulty, no longer working or old.

Fire Extinguishers

Don't overlook this important tool during your yearly maintenance check. January is a great time to inspect and charge any working fire extinguishers you have in your home. Fire extinguishers should also be placed in all accessible areas of the home, including the kitchen, garage and areas that house furnaces, boilers, fireplaces and stoves.

Drafty Windows and Leaky Electrical Outlets

With the chill of winter setting in, finding and repairing the weak points in your home will help keep your home warm and could help reduce the cost of heating, as well. Identify any windows that may have broken seals and examine electrical outlets throughout your home. Insulate any drafts you find.

Cold Weather Equipment & More

Living in the Midwest means the possibility of inclement weather is serious. If you haven't done so already, make sure you have proper snow removal equipment and have alternative energy options in case of power outages. January is also a great month for reviewing warranties and product information on a furnace, large appliances, and any other large systems in your home.

You want to focus on preventative maintenance not only to save you money and keep your home safe, but to protect the investment in your home. Fran Campbell Team RE/MAX Lake of the Ozarks are your professional real estate advisers and want to help you maintain your lake home. With the new year, getting a head start on yearly to dos, and anticipating yearly maintenance, will put you ahead of the issues and have you prepared for any upcoming unforeseen fixes.

Contact the Fran Campbell Team to schedule a showing!