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Monthly Home Maintenance Saves Time and Money
Whether you’ve purchased your first home or have decades of homeownership experience, one thing remains the same: timely maintenance is key. Keeping up with your home’s needs prevents bigger problems later on. When left unchecked, some issues can escalate quickly — like a roof leak, for example. A minor roof or gutter issue is easy to fix, but over time, you could end up dealing with mold growth and water damage. By staying on top of these monthly tasks, you’ll save both money and time down the road.
1. Check Monthly Electricity Cost Appliances
Determine how much electricity each appliance uses and how much it costs you each month. This helps you better manage your electricity use, decide which appliances you really need, and which ones could be turned off more often. Use a device like the Kill-A-Watt to calculate the cost of your plug-in appliances. Test a different appliance every month to get a sense of your electricity usage.
2. Inspect the Attic for Leaks When It’s Raining
“Go into your attic during a rainstorm to spot any leaks,” says John Bodrozic, co-founder of HomeZada. “Roof leaks can go unrepaired for a long time, causing damage to insulation and leading to mold growth, which is harmful to your health.” It’s also important to inspect your attic for insulation and airflow issues, which can increase your heating and cooling bills.
3. Check HVAC Filters
According to Bodrozic, you should replace your air filters at least four times a year, but it’s best to check them monthly. Make sure they aren’t clogged with dust and debris. Clean filters keep indoor air quality healthy and your system running efficiently.
4. Inspect Automatic Garage Door Safety Shutoff
Test the safety features of your automatic garage door, including the safety beams that should stop the door from closing if they detect an obstruction in the door’s path.
5. Lubricate Garage Doors
“Your doors are probably a series of panels connected by hinges with either metal or plastic rollers on each side,” Bodrozic explains. “Use the right lubricant, depending on whether the rollers are metal or plastic, to keep your garage door operating smoothly and prolong its lifespan.” A quick tune-up ensures the door opens smoothly and quietly.
6. Trim Shrubs Around Your Air Conditioning Units
Shrubs often grow around your A/C unit, blocking airflow. “This causes the unit to work harder and can cause damage,” says Bodrozic. Trim the shrubs and remove leaves around the unit to keep your A/C working efficiently.
7. Clear Snow From All Outside Vents, Meters, and the Oil Fill Pipe
In winter, snow removal becomes crucial. Blocked vents can lead to carbon monoxide buildup inside your home — a serious safety issue. Check your dryer, furnace, and water heater vents monthly, especially after a snowstorm. Make sure your gas and electric meters are accessible, and ensure that your oil or propane company can deliver fuel with a cleared path.
8. Clean Your Refrigerator Grille
“The grille at the top or bottom of your refrigerator gives you access to the compressor and cooling coils,” Bodrozic says. “Dust builds up over time, blocking airflow and potentially burning out your refrigerator’s cooling system.” Cleaning it prevents future refrigerator repairs.
9. Organize Your Refrigerator
“Whether you live alone or with a family, food always piles up in the fridge,” says professional organizer Christina Giaquinto. At the beginning of each month, remove all containers and perishable items. Decide what’s still good and what needs to be tossed. For extra motivation, wipe down the shelves and give the fridge a thorough clean after decluttering. This helps prevent wasted food.
10. Digitally Declutter
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