The 12 home-maintenance jobs you actually need to do
The small, cheap version this year, or the big, expensive one later. The figures are industry averages, sourced at the bottom.
- 1 Furnace and AC filter. Change it when it's due, about $20. Prevents a $560 blower motor.
- 2 HVAC tune-up. Once a year, about $250. Prevents up to a $7,500 system replacement.
- 3 Water-heater flush. Once a year, about $75 or free yourself. Prevents a $4,444 failure claim.
- 4 Washing-machine hoses. Braided steel every 3 to 5 years, about $30. Prevents the average $15,400 water claim.
- 5 Dryer vent. Clean it yearly, about $145. Lint is the top cause of ~12,700 dryer fires a year.
- 6 Gutters. Twice a year, about $200 to $470. Prevents a $5,200 foundation repair.
- 7 Roof check. An inspection, about $125 to $375. Prevents a $15,400 roof replacement.
- 8 Refrigerator coils. Brush them every 6 to 12 months, free. Dirty coils run up to 35% more on the bill.
- 9 Outdoor spigots. Disconnect the hose before the freeze, about $2. Prevents a burst-pipe water claim.
- 10 Sump pump. Pour a bucket in the pit before the wet season. Prevents a ~$3,864 flooded basement.
- 11 Smoke and CO alarms. Test them, change the batteries. The cheapest life-safety insurance there is.
- 12 GFCI outlets. Push the test button by the sink. Confirms the shock protection still works.