Maintaining your rental home is more important than you might think. Regular upkeep not only helps you avoid costly repairs but also ensures a positive relationship with your landlord. In this post, we’ll cover ten essential maintenance tasks every renter should be aware of. By staying on top of these tasks, you’ll be protecting your home and demonstrating that you’re a responsible tenant.
- Change Ceiling Fan Direction. In the summer, set your ceiling fan to spin counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze. In the winter, reverse the direction so it spins clockwise to help push warm air down. By changing the direction of your ceiling fan twice a year, you can help reduce strain on your HVAC system and keep your utility bills under control.
- Clean Exhaust Fans. Your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans are crucial for venting moisture and odors out of your home. To keep them functioning properly, clean them every month. Just remove the fan cover and vacuum out any accumulated dust or debris.
- Caulk Around Bathroom Fixtures. Check the caulking around your bathroom fixtures. If it’s cracked, peeling, or missing in spots, it’s time to replace it. Cracked or missing caulk can lead to mold growth, so prevention is key. Simply add new caulk around the base of each fixture with some caulk and a putty knife.
- Clear Drains. Clogged drains can cause water damage if left unattended. To prevent this, clear your drains every month by removing any hair or debris. Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by vinegar, let it sit, then flush with hot water.
- Drain Water Heater. Sediment can build up in your water heater over time, leading to corrosion and reduced efficiency. 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. Your outdoor air conditioning unit needs to stay clear of debris to work efficiently. Clean it every month by removing any dirt, leaves, or debris around it.
- Change HVAC Filters. The filters in your HVAC system play a key role in keeping your air clean and your home comfortable. Replace the filters every three months to ensure the system works efficiently. Filters can be easily purchased at most hardware stores.
- Clean Blinds and Windows. Dust and dirt can accumulate on blinds and windows, diminishing their appearance and functionality. To keep them looking their best, dust them monthly using a microfiber cloth or vacuum attachment to remove any dirt or debris.
- Check for Pests. Pests can cause significant damage to your home, so it’s important to check for signs of pests every month. Look for droppings, nests, or other evidence of infestation. If you spot any signs, notify your property manager so professional pest control can be arranged.
- Basic Appliance Maintenance. Basic appliance maintenance is essential to keep your appliances working properly. To Clean your oven and fridge monthly, vacuum the coils on your refrigerator, and dust the inside of your oven. Also, run the oven’s self-cleaning cycle once every three months.
Knowing When to Call a Professional
While these basic maintenance tasks can help keep things running smoothly, there are some issues that require professional help. If you experience electrical problems, plumbing leaks, or other serious issues, be sure to report them to your landlord. They can arrange for a service technician to address the problem.
Preventing costly repairs and maintaining a good relationship with your landlord is easier when you stay on top of these tasks. Add them to your monthly checklist and cross them off as you go!
Are you in search of a new rental home? Real Property Management Summit offers a variety of options in Staunton and nearby areas. Browse our listings or contact us with any questions!
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