Given that it may seem insignificant, regular upkeep can prevent costly repairs and cultivate a positive relationship with your landlord. In this blog post, we will examine ten critical minor maintenance tasks that every renter should complete to maintain the condition of their home. By consistently completing these straightforward tasks, you will exhibit your tenant responsibilities and safeguard your living space.
- Change Ceiling Fan Direction. When the weather gets hot, turn your ceiling fan counterclockwise for a refreshing breeze. To direct warm air downward from the ceiling during winter, it should spin clockwise. You can make your HVAC system run more efficiently and keep your utility bills under control by changing the direction of your ceiling fan twice a year.
- Clean Exhaust Fans. Your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans are important in venting moisture and odors out of your home. To keep them working properly, be sure to clean them every month. You can easily do this by removing the cover and using a vacuum attachment to remove any accumulated dust or debris.
- Caulk Around Bathroom Fixtures. Look at the caulking around your bathroom fixtures. It must be replaced if it is cracked, peeling, or missing in spots. Cracked or missing caulk can cause mold to grow. But prevention is a quick and easy task that you can do yourself. Simply add new caulk around the base of each fixture with some caulk and a putty knife.
- Clear Drains. Blockages in drains are an annoyance and a potential source of water damage. Be careful to empty your drains once a month to avoid this. A cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar, when poured down the drain, will loosen hair clogs. After an hour, flush it with hot water to remove any residue.
- Drain Water Heater. As water heats up, it expands and can cause sediment to build up in your water heater. This can lead to corrosion and decreased efficiency. To prevent this from happening, be sure to drain your water heater every year. You can do this by attaching a garden hose to the drainage valve and emptying it into a bucket or floor drain. Regular water heater maintenance can help ensure you have plenty of hot water all year round.
- Clean Off Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit. Keep your outdoor air conditioning unit free of leaves and debris. Clean it monthly to ensure it works effectively during the summer.
- Change HVAC Filters. Your HVAC system’s filters should be changed every three months to keep your air clean and maintain efficient heating and cooling.
- Clean Blinds and Windows. Dust and dirt can accumulate on your blinds and windows. Clean them monthly with a microfiber cloth or a vacuum to keep them looking good and functioning properly.
- Check for Pests. Pests can cause damage to your rental. Check for pests monthly, and if you see any signs, contact your property manager to arrange professional pest control services.
- Basic Appliance Maintenance. Basic appliance maintenance is essential to keep your appliances working properly. To do this, clean your oven and refrigerator every month. You can also vacuum the coils on your fridge and dust the interior of your oven to prevent build-up. Additionally, be sure to run a self-cleaning cycle on your oven once every three months.
Knowing When to Call a Professional
Some maintenance tasks require a professional, such as electrical or plumbing issues. Contact your landlord for help with bigger repairs.
Staying on top of these tasks will help you maintain a comfortable home and avoid unnecessary repairs.
Looking for a rental? Real Property Management Clarity Central has listings in Pickerington. Browse our listings and get in touch with any questions.
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