How often should I replace my HVAC filter?

Every one to three months, depending on the filter type and how hard the system is working. A clean filter improves air flow, which lowers your utility bill by keeping the system from working harder than it needs to.

How often should gutters be cleaned?

Twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. While you are up there, check that the gutters are still properly attached to the house.

Can DIY maintenance replace a home inspection?

No. Routine maintenance keeps a home in good shape, but an inspection looks beyond the surface at the systems you cannot easily see and tells you which jobs you can handle yourself and which need a contractor.

Essential DIY Home Maintenance Tips for Every Homeowner

Home ownership is one of the most significant milestones you and your family can achieve, but the work doesn't stop when you sign the papers. Every home needs ongoing care and maintenance to keep up its value and ensure you're living comfortably and safely. While the prospect of home maintenance might seem a little daunting, many essential tasks are surprisingly easy to manage. In this article, we'll walk you through some key ways you can keep up on your home's maintenance.

Your DIY Toolkit

A well-equipped toolkit is the cornerstone of any successful DIY endeavor. Here are a few essential tools every homeowner should have when taking care of their home:

Screwdriver set (including different sizes and types)
Adjustable wrench
Pliers (needlenose and slip-joint)
Hammer
Tape measure
Utility knife
Level
Putty knife

On top of that, there are a few materials you should have on hand if you need to make quick repairs in your home:

Spackle or drywall compound
Assorted screws and nails
Duct tape and electrical tape
Caulk and caulk gun
All-purpose cleaner
Paint and brushes

Easy Home Maintenance Tips

We all know home maintenance can be a huge investment of time and money, but there are a few things you can do as a homeowner to take care of your home. These things include:

Check and Replace HVAC Filters

Your HVAC filter is both one of the easiest tasks to accomplish, and one of the easiest to overlook. Your HVAC filter should be replaced every 1-3 months depending on its usage and type. Doing so can increase air flow, which lowers your utility bill by making sure your HVAC isn't working as hard.

Inspect and Clean Gutters

Water damage can cause problems for your home's structural integrity, but properly working gutters will direct water away from your home. You should clean your gutters twice a year (ideally in the spring and fall) and double-check that they're still attached to the house.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

The importance of functioning smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors cannot be overstated. We recommend you check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every month and replace the batteries once a year.

Seal Windows and Doors

When windows and doors aren't properly sealed, it can lead to heat loss in the winter and increased heating costs in the summer. This is why you should check for leaks around all windows and doors, and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal up any gaps.

While these tips are great first steps in caring for your home, a thorough home inspection will let you see beyond the surface and get a full picture of your home's condition. On top of that, your home inspector can help you determine what you can do yourself, and what you may need to hire a contractor for.

Your home's health is important. Hire Desert Oasis Property Inspections and find out what your home needs, and how you can help!