Home Maintenance For the New Year

Man applying caulk to a window

According to research from the University of Scranton, about 8 percent of people keep their New Year’s resolution for 365 days. While it can be difficult to keep ourselves on track, what if you made a pledge to your home instead? Looking to the year ahead, we have 7 maintenance tips to keep your home in good shape throughout 2019.

Cut Energy Use

A poorly maintained HVAC system needs to work twice as hard to maintain your ideal temperature, which increases your energy bills for lesser results. Once a month, clean or replace the air filter in your heating or cooling system. How else can you reduce energy use?

  • Take advantage of natural sunlight. Avoid turning and leaving lights on during the day.
  • Lower the thermostat when you’re away or asleep to save about 10% annually.
  • Get a tankless water heater and use up to 40% less energy to heat water in your home!

Use Less Water

According to the U.S. Geological Society, the average person uses 80 – 100 gallons of water a day. Simple changes like turning the water off as you brush your teeth or scrub dishes can greatly reduce the amount of “wasted” water consumption in your home.

Clean Your Drains

Not only does a dirty drain emit a foul smell but hair, soap scum and other debris that gets stuck in your drain could lead to clogs and serious damage. One common DIY way to clean your drains? Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to unclog and freshen the scent.

Check Pipes

Check your plumbing fixtures for leaks, including tubs, sinks and toilets. The last thing a homeowners wants to deal with in the new year is water damage. Also inspect your indoor and outdoor pipes for signs they could burst. When pipes freeze, the trapped water inside will eventually erupt from the pressure, which can also result in flooding and water damage.

Have a Disaster Kit

Living in New England, you should always be prepared for weather conditions that could knock out power. In case of an emergency, have a disaster kit on-hand including:

  • Water
  • Non-perishable food – for pets too!
  • Candles
  • Matches
  • Lighters
  • First Aid supplies
  • Flashlights
  • Batteries
  • Backup phone
  • Blankets

Seal Drafts

Check windows and doors for cold air coming from outside. If the windowsill or floor in front of a door feels cool to the touch, apply weather-stripping. Come summertime, the weather-stripping will also keep cool air in, so your air conditioner works at maximum efficiency.

Test Detectors 

The smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors should be checked monthly:

  • Smoke: Press and hold down the test button. If you hear a loud siren sound, the smoke detector is working well. If the sound is weak or non-existent, it’s time to change the battery.
  • Carbon Monoxide: Press and hold down the test button until you hear two beeps. Repeat this action until you hear four beeps. If you don’t hear all six beeps, change the battery.

M.J. Fahy & Sons has been providing HVAC and plumbing solutions since 1890. To schedule an appointment for service, contact us today!