5 Easy Home Maintenance Tips You Can Do This Weekend

Weekends seem to come by so slowly but be over in the blink of an eye. Time is often limited, but just because a project can be done in half an hour doesn’t mean it’s not important. Here are 5 small but important maintenance projects you can take on this weekend that won’t take up too much of your time.

Cleaning Kitchen Exhaust Fan

1. Clean Your Kitchen Exhaust Fan

Why It Matters

A clean kitchen exhaust fan helps remove cooking odors, smoke, and grease, improving air quality and reducing fire hazards.

How to Do It

Materials Needed: Screwdriver, degreaser, warm soapy water, sponge or cloth.

Steps:

  • Turn off the power to the exhaust fan.
  • Remove the filter and cover using a screwdriver.
  • Soak the filter in warm soapy water or a degreaser.
  • Wipe down the cover and fan blades with a sponge or cloth.
  • Reassemble the fan and turn the power back on.

Time Required: (30-45 minutes)

Replacing HVAC Filters

2. Replace HVAC Filters

Why It Matters

Clean filters improve air quality and HVAC efficiency, reducing energy costs and extending the system’s life.

How to Do It

Materials Needed: Replacement filters.

Steps:

  • Turn off your HVAC system.
  • Locate and remove the old filter.
  • Insert the new filter, following the arrows for airflow direction.
  • Turn the HVAC system back on.

Time Required: (10-15 minutes)

Testing Smoke Detector

3. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Why It Matters

Ensuring these detectors work can save lives by providing early warnings in case of fire or carbon monoxide leaks.

How to Do It

Materials Needed: Step stool or ladder, fresh batteries.

Steps:

  • Press the test button on each detector to ensure it sounds.
  • Replace the batteries if the alarm is weak or doesn’t sound.
  • Replace the unit if it does not function after battery replacement.

Time Required: (5-10 minutes per detector)

Cleaning Dryer Vent

4. Inspect and Clean Your Dryer Vent

Why It Matters

A clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard and reduces dryer efficiency. Regular cleaning prevents these issues.

How to Do It

Materials Needed: Vacuum with hose attachment, dryer vent brush.

Steps:

  • Unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall.
  • Disconnect the vent hose and vacuum out any lint and debris.
  • Use the dryer vent brush to clean inside the vent pipe.
  • Reattach the vent hose and push the dryer back into place.

Time Required:(30-45 minutes)

Maintaining Water Heater

5. Inspect and Maintain Your Water Heater

Why It Matters

Regular maintenance of your water heater can extend its lifespan, improve efficiency, and prevent costly repairs or replacements.

How to Do It

Materials Needed: Bucket, wrench, pressure relief valve, manufacturer's manual.

Steps:

  • Turn Off the Power: For electric heaters, switch off the power at the breaker box. For gas heaters, turn the gas valve to the pilot setting.
  • Check the Pressure Relief Valve: Place a bucket under the pressure relief valve, lift the valve lever, and let some water flow out. If water continues to flow after releasing the lever, the valve may need replacing.
  • Drain the Tank: Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Run the hose to a drain or outside. Open the valve and let the water drain out to remove sediment.
  • Refill and Restore Power: Close the drain valve, remove the hose, and open the water supply valve to refill the tank. Once the tank is full, turn the power back on or relight the gas heater.

Time Required: (30-45 minutes)