Just like teenage kids, homes that have entered into their teen years can be a pain to deal with. Typically, when a house becomes a teen, the lifespan of a lot of what makes up your home begins to end. This is when you’ll start to see stuff break, or at least, not work as efficiently as it used to.
Even if home maintenance isn’t your passion, and you’d rather be surfing or waterskiing, you still need to stay on top things unless you want some major headaches later on. Further, by keeping up with your home repair now will save you money down the road.
What parts of your house should you be concerned with? The following is a good primer that will get you headed in the right direction with two parts of your home that you should look at closely.
Air conditioning and heating
Your house’s HVAC system plays a huge role in keeping your home comfortable. It keeps you warm in the winter, cool in the summer and keeps the air circulating throughout your house. Most HVAC units have a lifespan of about 15 years, depending on the manufacturer.
Even if your HVAC system is running fine, it’s not as efficient as the newer models that are on the market today. Technology has improved a lot in the last decade and HVAC units are now designed with maximum efficiency in mind. This means that the money you spend on a new furnace (for example) can be recouped with lower energy bills.
If your HVAC system is getting old, or it’s showing signs of wear and tear, you need a licensed HVAC technician to come and inspect it.
Windows
Windows are often an overlooked part of the house when homeowners think about maintenance and upkeep. The truth is, however, that windows play an important role in keeping the home comfortable all year round. They not only provide great views of the neighborhood, but help to keep the temperature inside your home at a stable temperature, regardless of the weather outside.
A good first step is to check your windows for air leaks. You can do this by feeling with your hand around the edges of the window frame. Or, you can even use the smoke from a candle to detect drafts leaking through. When you find a leak, a little caulk will seal it right up.
Depending on the age of your windows, you might be better off replacing them. Like with your HVAC system, the cost you pay for new, high efficiency windows will be offset by your energy savings. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, you can save up to 15% on your energy bill, just by replacing your windows.
Call a professional
If you’re unsure about what needs to be done in your home, give us a call today and we can check out everything from your HVAC system, plumbing system and even perform a free home energy audit. Don’t let a house in its teen years get you down. Help is just a phone call away.
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