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Being a responsible homeowner involves more than just paying the mortgage; it requires regular maintenance to keep your home in good shape. Regular maintenance tasks help you catch small problems before they become costly emergencies. 

Whether you’re new to homeownership or just need a reminder, here are 15 things homeowners need to do once a month that will help you stay on track and keep your home in great condition. 

Give Your HVAC System Some TLC

HVAC units
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Your HVAC system keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. As part of your monthly maintenance, change or clean the air filters to keep the air quality healthy. Your HVAC system will thank you with lower energy bills and a longer lifespan.

Check Gutters

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Gutters and downspouts helps to direct rain and melting snow away from your home to help prevent water infiltration. On a monthly basis, check your gutters for signs of leaves or other obstructions, and fix any clogs or improper drainage. You should reach out to a professional for help clearing gutters or repairing any damage.

Walk Through Your Entire Property

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Each month, check any rarely used spaces, such as the attic or under a raised deck. Look for evidence of insects, rodents, rot, leaks or mold to identify developing problems early.

Check Health of Large Trees on Property

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Regular tree inspections help prevent potential hazards like falling branches or toppled trees, which can damage your property or pose a safety risk. Inspecting large trees on your property is an essential monthly task for both safety and maintenance. Look for signs of weakness, such as cracks in the trunk, leaning trunks, or exposed roots, which could indicate instability. Check for decay, including hollow areas, dead branches, or fungal growth around the base, as these are signs that the tree may be compromised.

Inspect Your Plumbing for Leaks

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Drips and leaks can be the silent drainers of your water bill and your sanity. Give your plumbing a once-over each month. Check for any leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement. Don’t forget to listen for those subtle-like drips that might be hiding.

Deep Clean Kitchen Appliances

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The quick wipe downs you do regularly are pretty good, but a monthly deep clean of your stove top, range hood, oven, and microwave will keep them looking good and working well. They will last longer, too. Don’t forget to give the door edges on your dishwasher a good scrub and wipe-down, too.

Test Garage Door Features

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If you have kids or pets, this is an important safety feature. Place a 2×4 on the ground where the door would close—it should reverse after a second or so when the door hits the wood. Test the photo-electric sensors as well by placing an object in front of them. The door should immediately go back up. If not, the garage door opener needs to be adjusted, fixed, or replaced.

Check Your Fire Extinguishers

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This is as easy as checking the gauge to see if it has expired. Also make sure the extinguishers are easily accessible (not behind something heavy) and that everyone in your household knows their locations. You should have one on every level of your home, and definitely in the garage and in the kitchen.

Test Smoke And Co2 Detectors

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The best time to ensure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are in tip-top working order is before you actually need them to be. Press the test button on each device to ensure they’re working properly. If the batteries are low or dead, replace them immediately. Additionally, most smoke detectors expire in about 10 years, but CO2 detectors have a lifespan of about 7 years.

Clean Kitchen Sink Disposal

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A smelly garbage disposal can make your whole kitchen unpleasant. Luckily, it’s easy to keep it fresh with a monthly cleaning. Start by running a few vinegar ice cubes through the disposal. Put some vinegar in an ice tray and let it freeze. Once frozen, run the ice cubes through the disposal system. This will help to freshen the system and keep the blades sharp!

Inspect Windows and Doors

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Proper sealing around windows and doors keeps out drafts and prevents water infiltration, which can cause damage over time. Once a month, inspect the caulking around all your windows and exterior doors for cracks or gaps.

Clean Dryer Vents 

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Your dryer vent may seem insignificant, but it can pose a serious fire risk if neglected. Lint buildup reduces efficiency and could possibly create a fire hazard. Once a month, clean the dryer vent.

Inspect Roof for Visible Damage

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Your roof is your home’s first line of defense, so regular inspections are essential. Once a month, check for missing, cracked, or curling shingles. You should also be on the lookout for debris buildup in valleys or near chimneys. After severe weather, check for damage from wind or fallen branches. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent leaks. 

Organize Closets

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Organizing your closets may seem minor, but it significantly impacts your daily life. Once a month, declutter by removing items you no longer use. Organize what’s left by grouping similar items together, using bins or baskets to keep things tidy. This regular decluttering makes your space more functional and helps you spot potential issues like moisture or pests that may be hiding in cluttered areas.

14 Home Maintenance Skills You Need to Know Before Buying a House

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Owning a home often comes with an endless list of projects to address. Fortunately, many of these home improvement and maintenance jobs can be tackled without the need for a professional. Here are 14 essential home repairs you should know before buying a house.

14 Home Maintenance Skills You Need to Know Before Buying a House

18 Tips To Keep Your Home From Smelling Like a Pet

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We all adore our pets, but let’s be honest—they can bring some unwelcome smells into our homes. Whether it’s the odor from a litter box or the lingering scent of a wet dog, here are 18 practical tips to help you eliminate those unwanted smells and keep your home smelling fresh.

18 Tips To Keep Your Home From Smelling Like a Pet

16 Germiest Places in Your Home That Need a Deep Clean

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It’s easy to overlook the hidden areas that accumulate dirt and germs over time. These often-forgotten spots can turn into breeding grounds for pests and bacteria. Here’s a rundown of the dirtiest places in your home.

16 Germiest Places in Your Home That Need a Deep Clean

Deborah Agor
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Deborah Agor is a seasoned freelance writer known for her captivating storytelling and informative articles. With a diverse background in journalism, Deborah's writing covers a wide range of topics, from technology to health and wellness. Her dedication to delivering engaging content has seen her work with numerous top brands. When she's not writing, Deborah enjoys exploring nature and discovering hidden gems in her community.

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