When it comes to maintaining your home, most people remember the big jobs — like roof repairs, plumbing leaks, or furnace servicing. But it’s often the small, easy-to-overlook tasks that end up causing the biggest (and most expensive) headaches later on.
Here are some of the most commonly skipped maintenance items — and what can happen if you ignore them.
1. 🧹 Cleaning Gutters & Downspouts
Clogged gutters might not seem like a big deal, but when heavy rain hits, or come the spring thaw, all that water has to go somewhere. Overflowing and blocked gutters can cause water to creep back up under the shingles, roof edge rot, siding damage, or even foundation leaks.
🕒 When to do it: Clean gutters at least twice a year — spring and fall — or hire someone if you’re not comfortable climbing a ladder.
2. 🌬️ Changing HVAC Filters & Scheduling Service
When filters are dirty, your system works harder to push air through, increasing energy costs and wearing down the unit faster. It also means dust and allergens circulate more freely in your home.
🛠️ Tip: Change filters every 1–3 months, depending on your system and pets, and schedule a professional tune-up once a year (or twice if you live in a harsh climate).
3. 🏠Inspecting Roof, shingles, Flashing & Seals
Small cracks or missing shingles can let water seep into your attic, damaging insulation and wood framing — or worse, leading to mold.
🔍 When to check: Take a look twice a year and after major storms. If heights aren’t your thing, call a roofing pro.
4. 🔧 Sealing Gaps Around Doors & Windows
Drafts don’t just make your house feel cold — they also waste energy and can let moisture or pests sneak in.
💡 Quick fix: If you can see light or feel air around a window or door, add fresh caulk or weather stripping. It’s a small job with a big payoff. Exterior caulking around windows and doors tends to dry out and crack over time. The calking should be checked every spring and fall.
5. 🔥 Cleaning Dryer Vents & Inside the Dryer
Lint buildup is a major fire hazard and one of the most common causes of house fires. It can also make your dryer less efficient.
🧺 Do this: Pull out the vent hose every few months to clean it and vacuum behind the dryer.
6. 💧 Checking (or Installing) a Sump Pump — If You Have or Need One
Not every home has or needs a sump pump, but if your home has one or your basement is prone to moisture, having one can be a game-changer. A failed sump pump during heavy rain or during the spring thaw, can lead to basement flooding, water damage, and mold growth.
âś… Test it regularly: Pour water into the pit to make sure it activates and drains properly. Also, check that the discharge line outside is clear and not blocked by debris or ice. Make sure you have a trickle charger and back up for power failures!
7. 🧊 Cleaning Refrigerator & Freezer Coils
Dusty coils make your fridge work harder, which raises your energy bill and shortens the life of the appliance. In extreme cases, it can even cause food to spoil.
🧽 To do: Unplug the fridge and vacuum the coils a couple of times a year — usually located at the back or underneath.
8. 🔍 Inspecting Attics, Basements & Crawlspaces
These hidden spaces often hide early signs of bigger problems — leaks, mold, pests, or wood damage — long before you notice them elsewhere.
🕵️ Tip: Check insulation, look for damp spots or musty smells, and keep an eye out for small entry points pests could use.
⚠️ Why These “Small” Jobs Matter
The biggest risk of skipping small maintenance tasks is that the damage builds quietly over time. By the time you notice something’s wrong, the repair can be ten times more expensive than simple prevention.
🧠Staying proactive helps you:
Prevent costly emergencies đź’°
Maintain comfort and efficiency 🌡️
Protect your investment 🏡
Remember: A well-maintained home isn’t just about comfort — it’s about preserving value, safety, and peace of mind.
Request your Free Overlooked Home Maintenance Checklist HERE
