There are definite advantages to buying a new custom home – many of the maintenance issues that homeowners deal with come with age, so you often don’t have to deal with things breaking down like they do over time. But, just because a home is new doesn’t mean nothing ever breaks, so it’s always good to be well-versed in simple home maintenance and repairs. However, the good news is that most of these can be easily fixed with simple steps. Here are seven common issues that homeowners face.
Leaky Faucets
Leaky faucets are a common household issue that can cause wasted water, higher water bills, and damage to walls, ceilings, and floors if left unchecked. The fix is often simple, such as tightening a loose washer or replacing a broken seal. But first, turn off the water at the fixture or, if there is no shut-off present, cut the supply to the house while you investigate and repair.
Clogged Drains
Whether it’s in the bathroom or kitchen, clogged drains can be frustrating to deal with. The easiest fix is using a plunger to unclog the drain. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, letting the mixture sit for half an hour before flushing it with hot water. Remember to avoid dumping grease down your drains and keep your bath and shower drains free of hair (one of the most common items to clog a drain).
Air Conditioning Malfunctions
Like any appliance, an air conditioner can malfunction, and in Texas, no one likes their AC to go out during the summer. Before calling a professional, check that your circuit breaker is switched on, the thermostat is set correctly, and the air filters are clean. Sometimes the unit will freeze up, and the best solution is to let it sit – cranking the temperature down even lower to try and keep it going will only worsen the problem. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system (twice a year is recommended) will help keep your system in tip-top shape.
Electrical Malfunctions
If an appliance stops working on light switches won’t turn on the lights, check the breakers and if present, the GFCI plugs nearby. Often, the breaker has tripped, and resetting it will fix the problem. If the problem persists, you may want to call an electrician as it may be a sign of something else. If you notice flickering lights, turn off the switch and check the bulbs. If it’s not the bulbs it could be an issue with the wiring so it may be time to call a professional.
Water Heater Malfunctions
A poorly functioning water heater can be frustrating. If it’s a gas-powered unit, make sure the pilot light is lit. Check that the water temperature is set correctly and listen to hear if it fires up to heat the water. Over time, the hard water in Texas can build up in your water heater, so it’s a good idea to have regular maintenance performed so that the sediment can be flushed from the tank.
Malfunctioning Smoke Detector
A malfunctioning smoke detector can put your household in danger in case of a fire. And of course, they never happen at convenient times and the incessant chirping is enough to drive anyone mad! Check to see if the batteries need replacing – even in hard-wired systems. Dust off the smoke detector while you’re up there. If it’s more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace it. If it has a carbon monoxide detector built into it, you’ll need to replace it sooner, usually around 5-7 years.
Pest Infestations
Pest infestations like ants, termites, or larger critters can cause damage to your home. To prevent an infestation, seal all cracks and crevices, eliminate sources of food and water, and call pest control for a professional check-up. We have a lot of home-invading pests in Texas, so it’s good to set up a regular pest control schedule with a reliable company.
Preventive Maintenance
It’s always easier to prevent a problem than to fix it.
These maintenance issues may seem small, but if left unaddressed, they can lead to larger problems. Simple fixes can save you a lot of money and even prevent property damage. Homeowners should always keep an eye out for the common maintenance issues that all homes can face and schedule regular maintenance to keep everything running at its best. With the right knowledge and a few simple tools, these issues can be easily fixed, and your home will remain in top condition.
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