Being homeowner is a major task. It's possible to be on top of home maintenance without needing the assistance of contractors. The trick is to determine which tasks are essential and which ones aren't. Many maintenance jobs are easy to complete and require little cash or time. Here are ten tasks are the first ones you should take on. 1. Replace Your Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Smoke detectors as well as carbon monoxide detectors ensure your family's safety from carbon monoxide and fire poisoning. Check to see if they're working by replacing the batteries and locating them in areas where they're supposed be. Carbon monoxide has a pleasant odor and colorless gas which can cause headaches as well as dizziness, weakness and death. Carbon monoxide is created by the combustion of fuels within vehicles truck, kerosene, propane heaters, and propane and natural gas stoves and fireplaces. 2. Change your HVAC Filter Filters that are dirty can cause a system to stop working. Be sure to keep up with this routine maintenance task to save on energy bills. Remove the filter you have been using and replace it in a safe manner with a brand new one. Make note of the direction of the arrows for air flow on the filter frame so you can install it correctly. Reconnect the HVAC unit. Examine the warranty on your home to see the items you can exchange within the warranty. Many people do not realize that the home services of cinch will provide services that will cover homes with systems that could require updating. 3. Check your Gutters Gutters perform an incredibly important purpose for homes, as they divert water away from foundations and reducing the chance of soil erosion, mildew, and structural damage. Keep your gutters free of obstructions and in good condition. Verify for standing or slow-moving water, insufficient slope or downspout direction; missing spikes or hangers, peeling or rusting paint and staining of surfaces adjacent to it. If it's raining, do a little work on the area. 4. Change the light bulbs in your home. It is easy to forget about changing light bulbs, even though it is essential to do so. It is vital to make sure you shut off the power source prior to you replace the bulb. Install the new bulb into place using a screw-fitting and then twist. Be sure to dispose of the bulb in a responsible manner. 5. Cleaning Your Windows If you've got white spots on your windows which can be difficult to get rid of, a few easy steps can get them looking like a professional cleaning. Clean the sills and frames of your windows. Then, clean the glass using an squeegee or lint-free towel. Lynsey recommends using Casabella microfiber cloths. These have a honeycomb texture that nabs the smudges, water spots and dirt without scratching. 6. Clean Your Garage Create a regular maintenance schedule to avoid mess and maintain the cleanliness of your garage for a longer period of time. Mop floors regularly, wipe down walls with a mixture of water and detergent to clean up oil spills, and blow out your garage each month. Put on a mask to protect your face from dust and other debris on tables, workbenches and other furniture that can't be moved. Clean the crevices between the walls and floors. 7. Cleaning Your Gutters Gutters are designed to direct rainwater that is leaking from the roof to the ground, stopping it from seeping into your home, which could cause foundation problems. They could become blocked with leaves and debris. Cleaning your gutters isn't the easiest task, but not doing it could lead to larger (and more expensive) house repairs later. Use a sturdy ladder and make sure you wear the right gloves. Do not extend your reach. 8. Cleaning Your Gutters Gutters are an important part of the drainage system that runs through your home. However, they can get blocked with leaves, twigs, and even debris. Water can get on walls, causing damage. It's not a pleasant job, however it's vital to protect your home. Wear work gloves and use an appropriate ladder. You'll also require a garden trowel and something to scoop the dirt into. 9. Clean Your Gutters and Soffits Soffits and gutters must be maintained on a regular basis. They shield the fascia and roof and if they are not properly ventilated, the moisture can lead to wood rot and emergency plumbing in Canberra mold. Professionals can remove dirt and stains without needing to climb up the ladder. First, they apply a cleaning solution that has a low pressure nozzle so as to not harm the surrounding foliage. 10. Cleaning Your Gutters The blocked gutters stop rainwater from flowing downwards and can cause damage to the roof and water damage to the house. They are also a magnet for critters and pests. Cleaning your gutters is an exhausting, messy job, but it's essential to get it done. Wear safety gear and use a sturdy ladder. Consider also getting an attachment for a gutter cleaning wand to a hose in order to avoid climbing a ladder at all.