Maintaining your rental home is a key responsibility for renters, ensuring the property remains in good shape and avoiding costly repairs. Here are ten small but crucial tasks that every renter should handle regularly.
- Change Ceiling Fan Direction. Switching your ceiling fan’s direction twice a year will improve airflow and make heating and cooling more efficient. In the summer, fans should turn counterclockwise, while in winter, they should spin clockwise to circulate warm air.
- Clean Exhaust Fans. Your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans are important in venting moisture and odors out of your home. To keep them working properly, be sure to clean them every month. You can easily do this by removing the cover and using a vacuum attachment to remove any accumulated dust or debris.
- Caulk Around Bathroom Fixtures. Look at the caulking around your bathroom fixtures. It must be replaced if it is cracked, peeling, or missing in spots. Cracked or missing caulk can cause mold to grow. But prevention is a quick and easy task that you can do yourself. Simply add new caulk around the base of each fixture with some caulk and a putty knife.
- Clear Drains. Blocked drains can cause water damage, so it’s important to clear them regularly. Use baking soda and vinegar to clean drains every month, followed by hot water to flush out debris and prevent clogs.
- Drain Water Heater. As water heats up, it expands and can cause sediment to build up in your water heater. This can lead to corrosion and decreased efficiency. To prevent this from happening, be sure to drain your water heater every year. You can do this by attaching a garden hose to the drainage valve and emptying it into a bucket or floor drain. Regular water heater maintenance can help ensure you have plenty of hot water all year round.
- Clean Off Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit. Outdoor air conditioning units can collect debris that hinders performance. Clear any dirt, leaves, or other buildup monthly to ensure your system operates efficiently, especially during hot months.
- Change HVAC Filters. Change your HVAC filters every three months to maintain clean air in your home and keep your HVAC system functioning properly. It’s a simple task that can improve both air quality and energy efficiency.
- Clean Blinds and Windows. Dust and dirt can accumulate on your blinds and windows, making them look grimy and less functional. Clean them every month using a microfiber cloth or vacuum to keep them in good shape.
- Check for Pests. Pests can damage your rental home if not addressed promptly. Check for signs of infestation monthly and inform your property manager if you see anything concerning. They can arrange for professional pest control if needed.
- Basic Appliance Maintenance. Basic appliance maintenance is essential to keep your appliances working properly. To do this, clean your oven and refrigerator every month. You can also vacuum the coils on your fridge and dust the interior of your oven to prevent build-up. Additionally, be sure to run a self-cleaning cycle on your oven once every three months.
Knowing When to Call a Professional
Some maintenance issues are beyond a renter’s skill set. For complex problems like electrical malfunctions or plumbing leaks, contact your landlord, who will arrange for a professional technician to handle the repair.
By staying on top of these tasks, you can avoid costly repairs and maintain a healthy relationship with your landlord. Add them to your routine to keep your rental home in top shape.
Looking for a new rental home? Real Property Management Ascension offers properties in Dalton. Browse our listings today and feel free to reach out with questions.
Originally Published on Sep 16, 2022
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