It’s wonderful when your home runs seamlessly without disruptions to important services. To avoid frustrating problems that can be expensive to fix, check out your household’s utility systems occasionally to ensure everything is working correctly and efficiently. Every year or two, schedule appointments for professional service technicians to inspect and evaluate these critical systems and provide any needed maintenance.
HVAC System
Your heating and air conditioning units play a vital role in maintaining safe and comfortable air quality in your home. During the summer, the air conditioner should be able to cool the interior of your home to the designated thermostat setting to keep everyone cool. During the winter, you depend on the furnace to maintain consistent heat. Contact a reputable HVAC contractor to assess your system, especially if it is getting older or not working as efficiently as it should.
Electric Wiring
If your home’s wiring is up to date, you might not expect to have any problems with electric power availability except if extreme weather causes a temporary outage. But older wiring may need to be updated when it begins to fray or if you notice sparks when plugging appliances into the power outlets. If an electrical device that is plugged in begins to flicker or smell heated, those are more signs that expert attention is needed. Certainly, if smoke emerges from an outlet, call the fire department for immediate help and then the electrician for repairs.
Plumbing
A home’s plumbing system can cause numerous problems. A leaky toilet, dripping faucet, broken water tank, or backed-up drain are common problems that may require the attention of a licensed plumber. The dishwasher, ice maker, and washing machine are additional sources of potential plumbing issues. Some water-based problems may be invisible, such as a drip or leak behind the wall that causes a musty smell or moldy spot. If you think a plumbing problem is developing, get an expert’s opinion and assistance.
Roof
Since the roof is hard to see from the ground level, many homeowners don’t realize they have a problem until it starts to have a major impact. Missing shingles or chimney bricks might not be evident through casual observation. Over time, the problem can get worse and cause rainwater to seep into your attic. Bats or raccoons creeping into your chimney or attic cause other kinds of problems. A thorough roof inspection every couple of years is a good idea to locate and fix minor problems before they get worse.
Be proactive in checking for possible household issues that could damage your home or injure your family. Take a good look and call the professionals if you suspect a problem.
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.