Homeowner's Checklist: What You Need to Do Every month, Seasonally, and Beyond!

Being a homeowner has many benefits. However, along with these perks also comes a lot of responsibility. The regular maintenance and cleaning tasks can seem like an overwhelming task, especially when you're a first-time homeowner—it may seem daunting.

The proper regular maintenance of tasks all through the year will save you from expensive repairs and can extend the lifespan of the elements in your residence. We've created a helpful guide to give you a better understanding of what you need to do and when:

Monthly Maintenance

Just a few maintenance tasks that are quick every month can prevent costly repairs later. They are typically 5 minutes jobs or less and don't require any specific knowledge.

• Examine and replace HVAC filters (if required). There are some guidelines that say you should replace your filters every month. However, many times it is not necessary. If you suffer from allergies or you have pets, each quarter of a month might be necessary; however, every three months is probably sufficient. Make sure you check it often since dust and pollen levels will fluctuate through the year, and your filter may have to be cleaned more often.

• Clean your kitchen sink disposal. This frequently overlooked appliance can be very dirty with food waste and other food particles sitting in the moist. There are many commercially available cleaning tools that can be used to clean this, and you can purchase them at any local retailer or supermarket. However, you can make your own using an ice-cube tray that is full of vinegar, then run the cubes through the disposal. This dual-purpose product also functions as a sharpener for blades of the disposal.

• Test carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure the life-saving devices are ready with a simple test. Read the instructions of the manufacturer first; however, most models require that you press the button onto the detector. If the device is able to be heard, it is safe to use it.

• Check the sinks and toilets for leaks. A quick glance and feel under the sinks as well as around toilets could be a great way to avoid expensive and lengthy repairs. A small leak that is not detected could cause thousands of dollars of damage and could even affect the structure of your home. The presence of moisture in the sinks and around toilets must be examined and also any noises that gurgle or rumble that persist after the toilet has been flushed.

Annual and Seasonal Tasks

Certain things aren't required to be addressed each month, while other things must be completed when the seasons change. Check these things off each quarter in line with the seasons:

• Check the water softener, including salt, if necessary. At times, this easy task needs a peek beneath the lid on the softener and taking an inspection. Add salt as necessary.

• Clean up the gutters (spring and maybe late fall). If there are a lot of trees in your yar, this could be a two-time-a-year chore. Get rid of debris and leaves by hand, and then flush them with the pipe.

• Clean and check windows screens (winter/spring). To prepare for winter, you should remove your screens from the windows to store. The accumulation of snow can occur between windows and screens and can cause damage. In spring, wash them thoroughly using dish soap or outdoor cleaning solution and a hose. Examine for holes, and then replace the damaged screens.

• Make an appointment for heating system maintenance (including chimneys, if you have one). Have your furnace checked and tuned at least every other fall and, for your chimney, should you have one, checked annually. If you have steam heating that you are using, make sure to drain your boiler to eliminate any sediment.