Actually, many of us do just that. We neglect our biggest investment our home. The stuff of life gets in the way and the boring house-related chores on your to-do list often go ignored.

Here is a quick list of home maintenance tasks you should be doing every month to keep your home in tip-top shape!

1. Check the HVAC Filters

It’s recommended to replace your HVAC air filters 4 times or year, which is every 3 months. However, you should check the filters at least once a month. Clogged air filters put a strain on your HVAC system, causing it to use more energy and wear out faster.

2. Check the Attic When It’s Raining

Undetected roof leaks can lead to mold growth and even structural damage. In homes with an attic, the roof can be leaking for quite some time before you notice it. Take a moment when it’s raining to go up and look around. Also, be vigilant for a heavy, musty smell that may indicate the presence of mold.

3. Clean the Garbage Disposal

The garbage disposal works hard for you but can be a breeding ground for bacteria if you don’t take care of it. It can also fill your kitchen with a less-than-pleasant aroma.

Cleaning it is a simple task. Just toss in a bit of bleach and some ice cubes. The ice will help to sharpen the blade and the bleach will kill any bacteria. If you’d prefer something more natural, try vinegar ice cubes and baking soda.

4. Clean the Kitchen Range Hood Filter

The kitchen range hood is an important part of keeping the air clean in your kitchen. However, it can’t do its job well if the filter is clogged which can happen easily because of all the grease.

If you’re lucky, you might have a model with an indicator light that will let you know when the filter needs to be changed. However, this isn’t common. The best way to ensure the proper function is to keep an eye on it and change or clean it when necessary.

5. Grease the Garage Door Rollers

People open their garage doors approximately 1,500 times a year. With resistance from sticky wheels, your garage door opener will have to work harder to haul it up — which means it will wear out faster. Greasing the rollers once a month will eliminate this problem.

Keep Your Home In Tip-Top Shape

Owning a home is a big job. There always seems to be some sort of maintenance task that needs to be taken care of. By regularly performing these little tasks you can cut down on big, often costly problems that take you by surprise.

Run across something you’re unsure about during your maintenance inspections? Don’t forget you can ask questions on our discussion boards and get answers from home services experts and contractors. Try it today!