Using a simple home maintenance monthly checklist like the one below is a smart way to help mitigate expensive emergencies by catching issues early on. Additionally, routinely checking up on your home's mechanics and making sure they are running smoothly will extend their life and reduce the costs of repairs and replacements.
Why Is Regular Home Maintenance Important?
Regular home maintenance is essential for a number of reasons. First, it helps to ensure the safety and structural integrity of your home, protecting you and your family from potential hazards such as fire, water damage, and collapse.
Regular maintenance can also help to prevent costly repairs and replacements in the future. By catching and fixing small problems early, you can avoid them becoming larger, more expensive issues down the line.
Additionally, regular maintenance can help to maintain the value of your home over time. A well-maintained home is more appealing to potential buyers, should you ever decide to sell.
Finally, regular maintenance can simply make your life easier and more comfortable by ensuring that your home is functioning properly and free of any unnecessary disruptions or inconveniences. Ultimately, regular home maintenance is an investment in the safety, value, and livability of your home.
Monthly Home Maintenance Checklist: 11 House Maintenance Tips
The following monthly home maintenance list can help you keep your home in good condition and save money on costly repairs.
1. Check the Furnace Filter
Furnaces and heat pumps depend on the filter to operate properly. A dirty filter puts added stressors on your system requiring them to work harder to move air. It will also make your home accumulate more dust. 
Remove the filter, wiping off any dirt or particles that may be blocking the airflow. Doing so will result in better air quality and lower energy bills. If the filter is too dirty or worn, it should be replaced.
2. Check the Range Hood Filter
To ensure your range hood's exhaust vent continues to function properly, it is necessary to regularly clean the filter that catches grease. This involves taking out the filter and washing it in hot water with dish soap that cuts grease. 
Once the filter is dry, it should be put back in its original spot.
3. Clear Drains
Verify that all sinks, showers, and tubs are draining properly. In the event of a clog, clear the blockage with boiling water, baking soda and vinegar, or a drain snake. Do not combine drain cleaners and DIY solutions, as this may cause harmful reactions.
In bath sinks, sometimes it may be necessary to remove the drain stopper to clear hair that may accumulate. 
4. Clean the Garbage Disposal
To avoid unpleasant smells and other issues, put half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, then carefully add half a cup of vinegar. Alternatively, put a few ice cubes into the disposal, grind them, and then add half a cup of baking soda and boiling water.
5. Check Sinks and Toilets for Leaks
Investigate any evidence of water, no matter how small. A leak will become worse if left unchecked, so the sooner it is addressed, the quicker and more affordable the fix. 
6. Test Smoke and CO Detectors
There should be a test button on your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. If you cannot find a way to test your detector, it is advisable to contact the manufacturer for further instructions. In certain cases, you might even be able to evaluate smart detectors from your mobile device.
Additionally, changing the batteries every year is a good habit. 
7. Check Your Fire Extinguishers
Ensure that the fire extinguishers are in an accessible spot and in good condition. If they look worn, have dents, or pressure is low, it is time to get new ones. 
8. Examine Electrical Cords
Examine the protective covering of the cord, particularly around the connector, which tends to become damaged easily. Utilize electrical tape to fix any damaged areas and make arrangements to replace the cord in a timely manner. 
9. Check the House Exterior
Walk around your residence, looking for harm on the garage door, rooftop, outside walls, windows, entryways, and base. Take note of any pooled water nearby, as it could be a sign of leaks or other difficulties. 
10. Check the Air Conditioner
Inspect the area surrounding the copper piping that is attached to the internal condenser fan coil for any signs of water leakage. If you find any, it’s time to call an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) professional. 
11. Clear Your Outdoor Dryer Vent
Ensure the entrance is clear of any lint or collected dirt, as this can be a fire hazard.
What Is the Average Cost of Home Maintenance Per Month?
The average monthly cost of home maintenance can vary widely depending on factors such as the size, age, location, and specific needs of the home. However, according to State Farm, the average homeowner in the United States spends about 1% to 4% of their home's value per year on maintenance and repairs.
For example, if a home is worth $300,000, the average home maintenance costs can range from $3,000 to $12,000 per year or about $250 to $1,000 per month.
It's important to note that these are just average estimates, and the actual cost of home maintenance can vary significantly based on the age and condition of the home, local labor costs, and the specific maintenance needs of the property.
Additionally, unexpected repairs and emergencies can also increase the cost of home maintenance. For this reason, it's a good idea to have a contingency fund set aside for unexpected home maintenance tasks.
Master Your Monthly Home Maintenance Schedule
In conclusion, regular monthly home maintenance is crucial for keeping your home in good condition, avoiding costly repairs, maintaining its value, and ensuring the safety and comfort of you and your family.
By following the above 11 tips, you can stay on top of routine maintenance tasks and catch potential issues early on.
If you have a question about home maintenance, contact the team at Rush Residential and we’d be happy to help you.
Credit: Dawn James, Dawn James Group, Caliber Home loans