Mastering the art of indoor home maintenance
As the weather shifts, it's time to prepare your home for the changing seasons. Whether you're gearing up to keep warm or seeking cool relief, proper maintenance of your heating, cooling, and indoor areas is key. Let's dive into some essential tips to ensure there are fewer hazards around the home.
Warm up or cool down
Before you dust off and fire up your beloved heat pumps or air conditioners, it's crucial to prioritise their upkeep. We highly recommend having your heat pump professionally serviced annually. A qualified technician may inspect various components, including ducts, filters, blowers, and coils, to eliminate any dirt or dust build-up that could affect performance. They can also check for leaks, ensure proper refrigerant charge, inspect electric terminals, lubricate motors, and verify correct thermostat operation. This website has some fantastic tips on how you can help to optimise the efficiency of your heat pump.
For those cozy evenings by the wood heater, it's essential to keep your unit in top shape. Regular maintenance is key, and we suggest servicing your wood heater at least once every 12 months. The Australian Home Heating Association offers fantastic tips, including the importance of cleaning the flue to prevent creosote build up.
By following these tips, you'll ensure that your wood heater functions correctly and safely.
Inside the home
Maintaining a well-functioning home goes beyond heating and cooling systems. Various areas require attention to avoid unexpected issues. Let's explore some of the things you should consider.
Wet Areas
In wet areas like bathrooms, grout and silicone deteriorate over time. Regularly check for cracks in grout lines, inspect shower screen seals, and ensure silicone beads are in good condition. Generally, grout in wet areas should be replaced every 5-7 years, while silicone beads should be replaced every 5 years. For older builds or renovations predating 1996, extra caution is needed, as water ingress can be more likely in the absence of a water membrane layer.
Flexi Hoses
Flexible hoses play a significant role in our homes but require periodic attention. It's recommended to replace them every five years. Watch out for signs of damage, such as corrosion, bulging areas, fraying, or kinking. Installing a pressure limiting valve to reduce strain on the water supply system can help prevent hose failure.
Appliances
Regularly check and maintain appliances according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure water-tightness and proper condition of connected hoses, to avoid any damage.
Water Leaks and Damage
Swift action is crucial when it comes to water leaks. Promptly investigate and address unexplained water on the floor, and stains on walls or ceilings. Installing water detection devices near vulnerable areas like water heaters, sump pumps, and washing machines can help detect low moisture levels or slow leaks. Additionally, check your water pressure to prevent excessive strain on pipes and hoses, considering the installation of a pressure regulator if necessary.
By following these maintenance tips for inside your home, you can help to create a safe and comfortable environment for you and your family. So, prepare your home for the seasons ahead and enjoy peace of mind knowing you've got your maintenance under control.
