Being a homeowner comes with the fun of decorating your house to fit your taste, getting appliances that fit your lifestyle, and laying everything out just the way you desire. However, that joy comes with its hurdles when, suddenly, some issues arise that make the home sweet home slightly sour.
While some home repairs can be delayed for a bit, some issues need to be prioritized and immediately taken care of.
Air Conditioning and Heating Systems
Whether it is the furnace going out in the middle of January or the air conditioner cranking out warm air in late July, HVAC systems require immediate attention. Clogged and dirty air filters can lead to a burnt-out cooling system, with ductwork becoming backed up with gunk and debris. A registered HVAC technician is needed to handle any leaks or issues within the ducts, while for a homeowner, simply changing air filters monthly can fix this issue.
Ductless options for heating and air conditioning are considered a viable option to avoid the complexities of some cooling and heating systems. Split air conditioners or ductless mini-split systems are much easier to install and simpler to swap out filters to remove dangerous allergens from the air. If cold air isn’t emerging from these systems, check for clogs before lowering the thermostat and putting more stress on the unit. Cleaning outdoor units is of grave importance as well, as it becomes caked in dirt, not allowing refrigerant to flow, and preventing air circulation properly.
Roofing
Among the household repairs that you shouldn’t put off is a leaky roof. Beyond just water dripping in and damaging your furniture and floors, those leaks can lead to dangerous mold development and structural damage that can compromise the integrity of your home. It is important to have a reputable contractor take a long at the roof and determine potential repairs or replacements.
Often, homeowners discover a leaky roof when it is too late. However, it is worth taking a closer look even for a small leak, as the roof could be missing shingles or dealing with significant damage brought on by inclement weather.
Pest Control
From the first time you shriek seeing a mouse or a roach, it is time to call an exterminator or pest control specialist. Do not ignore anything from ants to termites to spiders and rats; one incident is too many. Some of these pests can multiply quickly, wreaking havoc on your house.
Termites and carpenter ants can do significant damage to the structure of your home, while attics and garages can become a haven for larger creatures to set up their new home in yours. Be sure to close off a small hole or spaces in your home that critters can scurry in with caulk, and fix leaks in your plumbing that may be letting water accumulate. Pest control can start with solving a small problem like proper food storage at night.
Gutters and Plumbing
Cleaning out the gutters may be a pain to deal with for homeowners, but the truth is, it’s an even bigger pain if ignored for too long. Rain gutters can pile up with leaves, twigs, and other debris, sending water stuck inside, seeping through to your walls, and giving rise to mold. If you’re not comfortable cleaning the gutters yourself, hire a contractor to take care of it for you.
Indoor plumbing issues should not go ignored either. If you notice a significant drop in your water pressure, it could result from corrosion or leaks from the piping. A gurgling or rattling sound in the pipes may indicate a blockage that is trapping air. Slow-moving drains could also point to a block in the pipeline. It is in the best interest to hire a licensed plumber to evaluate the issues.
