Easy fixes for common indoor maintenance issues

By U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist
Lucy M. Quinn [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

When heavy snows or summer storms keep you stuck indoors, you might consider passing the time with some simple home maintenance tasks. These simple projects can alleviate your boredom while protecting your family’s safety and the value of your home.

1. Change smoke and carbon monoxide batteries. Don’t wait for detectors to start chirping at you… replace all the batteries at one time. At most you’ll need to do this twice a year, so why not take care of it in a single go?

2. Test your ground-fault circuit interruptor outlets. These are the outlets typically found in bathrooms and kitchens which are designed to prevent catastrophic electrocution. A video on GFCI outlets and how to test them can be found on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vkd43t2y2to

3. Clean kitchen stove and dryer vents. Clogged kitchen vents reduce the efficiency of the exhaust system and lint built up in dryer vents can be a major cause of house fires.

4. Lubricate water shut-off valves. Since they’re so seldom turned, these valves can rust and seize up over time. Use WD-40 to lubricate the valves, letting the lubricant work into the metal if need be. Turn and test the valves under sinks, around toilets, and to the lines supplying water to your washer.

5. Inspect hoses. Cracked or leaking drain hoses, ice machine water lines, and washing machine supply lines can all lead to unexpected flooding. (This is a good job to pair with lubricating your valves.)

6. Silence squeaky floor boards. Did you know a little talcum powder worked into the cracks between floor boards can help reduce friction and quiet down noise?

7. Tighten loose knobs and handles. Break out your screwdrivers and work through cabinets, drawers, and all other doors. You’re likely to find a few places you can tighten up a nagging screw.

If you come across any larger projects you’d like handled and need a referral for a plumber, electrician, or contractor, get in touch with me today. I’d be happy to share my favorites with you: scatesrealtyinvestments.com