Fortifying Your Family Nest: Essential Home Maintenance Tips for Moms

June 28, 2023 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

Just like a diligent bird meticulously constructing its nest, providing a safe and comfortable home for your family is a task of utmost importance. Your home is not only a shelter; it’s a space where countless memories are nurtured and cherished. To keep this space functioning smoothly, regular upkeep is non-negotiable. Despite how dull it may seem, attending to mundane home chores is vital for the overall health of your nest.

The adage ‘Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today’ may seem clichéd, but it’s sagely advice when it comes to home maintenance. Yes, we all have a long list of jobs to do around the house, but finding the time and will to get them done is often challenging. However, neglecting these chores is akin to disregarding your car’s need for occasional servicing. Your home, too, requires its ‘oil changes’ to avoid metaphorically breaking down on the side of the road.

A seemingly minor issue can snowball into a major problem if consistently ignored. Adriano Sato from the handyman firm Hire A Hubby highlights, “Putting off chores until ‘next month’ can eventually exact a heavy toll.” The silver lining? Many of these tasks can be undertaken by yourself, requiring minimal cost and effort. This article aims to guide you through ten essential home maintenance chores that will significantly fortify your family nest:

1. Gutter Cleaning: Clear gutters ensure proper rainfall runoff and protect your roof and foundations from damage. Keep a vigilant eye for any debris, vegetation, cracks, or corrosion and contact a roof restoration Sydney service if needed.
2. Smoke Alarm Inspection: Perhaps the simplest yet most crucial chore. According to Smoke Alarms Australia, almost half of all households lack a functioning smoke alarm. Regular checks are not only lifesaving but also necessary for potential insurance claims. Test your smoke alarm periodically. If it fails to make a sound, change the batteries or clean the battery terminal. If these measures don’t work, it might be time for a new smoke alarm.
3. Refrigerator Coil Cleaning: Your refrigerator can account for up to 15% of your home’s yearly power consumption. Regular cleaning of the coils at the back of the refrigerator can ensure it runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.
4. Range Hood and Extractor Fan Cleaning: Those greasy deposits above the stove won’t clean themselves. Regular cleaning can extend the lifespan of your kitchen fan and save you replacement costs in the long run.
5. Air-Conditioning Filter Cleaning: Clogged or dirty air-conditioning filters can cut airflow by up to 50%. Regular cleaning ensures optimal operation, especially with the summer heat looming.
6. Tumble Dryer Maintenance: Apart from the lint trap, the dryer’s hose and exterior vent also require periodic cleaning. This not only reduces fire hazards but also extends your dryer’s life expectancy.
7. Pest Control Measures: Every household is susceptible to unwanted pests, from cockroaches to termites. Regular cleaning, coupled with periodic professional inspections, can help keep this nuisance at bay.
8. Waste Disposal Unit Cleaning: Regular cleaning of your sink disposal unit can keep your kitchen odor-free and ensure efficient operation.
9. Tap Aerator Maintenance: A blocked filter or aerator can adversely affect water pressure from the tap. Regular cleaning or replacement can keep the water flowing smoothly.
10. Lock Lubrication: This chore might not be at the top of your priority list, but it is highly satisfying. Regular check-ups on all locks and hinges for wear and tear, tightening, and lubrication can save you from future inconvenience.

While these tasks can largely be managed by yourself, sometimes it’s best to enlist professional help. After all, a little assistance never hurt. Australia is a nation of fervent home improvers, with over $76 million spent on renovations in a single year, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Nonetheless, not everyone is handy. Tasks that involve climbing ladders or complex repairs might necessitate professional help. Hiring a handyman can save you time, effort, and resources. Furthermore, they can advise on jobs that require specialists, such as pest inspections, plumbing, electrical work, gas fitting, or structural work. Even tasks as intricate as roof restoration can be handled by professionals, ensuring a job well done. For instance, if you’re based in Sydney, numerous top-tier roof restoration services can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your home is in safe hands.

To determine whether a task requires professional intervention, ask yourself: Is it safe? Do I know how to do it? Do I have the right tools? If any of these questions draw a negative response, it might be best to call in a handyman or a tradesperson.

In conclusion, maintaining your home is akin to safeguarding your family’s comfort and well-being. With regular upkeep, you can keep your home in top shape, ensuring it remains a warm, welcoming nest for your family. Remember, a well-maintained home is not just a clean home – it’s a safe, efficient, and healthy environment for your family.