‏It can be intimidating when you think of the work required to maintain a home. If you’re not sure where to begin, here is some advice regarding common household problems. Don’t neglect these issues as they can lead to more serious concerns.

‏1. Leaks are Common Household Problems

Leaks should be a concern because even a small amount of water can lead to a lot of damage. Since much of your home’s plumbing is hidden behind walls, a leak may go undetected for days or weeks before there are visible signs of a problem.

A leak might occur for a variety of reasons: missing shingles, corroded pipes, or damaged fixtures or appliances. The important thing is to find the source of the leak right away before the problem becomes worse. Water can lead to mold growth and structural damage if the leak is not remedied.

‏2. Problems with the ‏‏Heating and Air Conditioning‏

‏When it’s cold outside and it seems that your living spaces are not reaching the set temperature, the problem might be your heating system. Because a functioning HVAC system is necessary for a comfortable home, issues with the HVAC unit should be addressed swiftly.

The unit may need to be serviced or replaced entirely if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. To avoid issues on the coldest day of the year, have a professional check the heating system before the weather gets cold.

If you use gas heat or a fireplace, install carbon monoxide detectors. They will warn you of a build-up of CO in your home. If you smell gas, leave the house immediately and call your local gas company.‏

‏It’s also important to have your air conditioner serviced annually by a professional. The air conditioner coils need to be cleaned yearly. Dirty coils cause the AC to work harder, will shorten its lifespan, and increase your energy bills.‏

‏3. Poor Insulation‏

If your heating and cooling systems are in great working order but your home still isn’t comfortable, it could be that your house has poor insulation.‏ ‏You might notice high heating bills, mice and bugs who have made it through gaps and cracks in your windows or walls, and cold floors.

Hire a professional to assess the insulation in your attic. If your insulation isn’t adequate for the local climate, add more. Check the frames of windows and doors, looking for gaps and cracks. Fill any gaps with caulk and install new weatherstripping if the materials in place are aging or cracked.

By boosting the insulation, your home will stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. As a bonus, you’ll save money on your monthly bills and extend the lifespan of the HVAC system.

‏4. Plumbing‏ Issues are Common Household Problems

‏If you notice a bad smell coming from your drain, this could be a sign of a plumbing problem. Plumbing issues may occur due to clogged or damaged pipes and should be repaired to prevent things from becoming worse.

If you’ve noticed slow drains throughout your home, unusual sounds coming from the pipes, or low water pressure, call a plumber. He or she can troubleshoot the situation and make repairs.

‏Dealing with these common household problems will make your house more comfortable and safe for you and your family. By maintaining the property, you’ll save money on repairs in the long term and increase the value of your home.

Attic to Foundation Home Inspections provides inspection services to customers in the Greater Atlanta area. Contact us to schedule an inspection.