Home Maintenance: The Tasks You Always Remember (and the Ones You Probably Don’t)

When it comes to owning a home, regular maintenance is key to keeping your home safe, efficient, and ready for resale value down the road. Some tasks are easy to remember—like mowing the lawn or changing the furnace filter—but others are easier to overlook until they become an issue.

Let’s take a look at the home maintenance tasks you’re likely remembering, and the ones that tend to slip through the cracks.

✅ Tasks Most Homeowners Remember

These are the items that usually make the seasonal to-do list:

1. Refilling the Water Softener with Salt or Pellets
In many Twin Cities homes, hard water is a reality—so keeping the softener full is often a well-ingrained habit for local homeowners.

2. Changing Furnace Filters
Especially in the colder months, homeowners often remember to change furnace filters to keep the system running smoothly and the air clean.

3. Gutter Cleaning (in fall)
Clogged gutters can cause water damage, so many people tackle this chore every fall.

4. Smoke and CO2 Detector Battery Checks
This is a task many homeowners associate with daylight saving time changes—and for good reason!

5. Touch-up Painting or Minor Repairs
Scratched baseboards or chipped paint on the porch? These cosmetic fixes often land on the spring-cleaning radar.

😬 Tasks That Are Easy to Forget

These are the silent workhorses of home maintenance—the things that, when neglected, can become costly surprises later:

1. Dryer Vent Cleaning
Even if you clean your lint trap, lint still builds up in the vent over time—and it’s a major fire hazard. A quick vacuum or professional cleaning once a year can prevent big problems. Safety tip: always UNPLUG it first!

2. Water Heater Flushing
Hard water minerals build up in the tank, reducing efficiency and lifespan. Aim to flush it once a year—especially in areas with harder water. If your heater is more than a couple years old or you’re unsure about the process, consult a qualified plumber since sediment build-up could instigate problems after a flush.

3. Caulking Around Windows and Doors
Cracked caulk lets in drafts and moisture, which can lead to mold or higher utility bills. It’s worth checking every spring and fall.

4. Sump Pump Testing
If you have a basement, make sure your sump pump is working before a big storm. Pour a bucket of water into the pit and see if it kicks on.

5. Attic and Crawl Space Inspections
Out of sight, out of mind—but rodents, moisture, or insulation issues often start here.

6. Cleaning the Refrigerator Coils
This helps your fridge run efficiently and can prolong its life. Did you know some newer fridges house the coils on the bottom? Lower the kick plate to check! Safety tip: always UNPLUG it first.

Safety First

As with all home maintenance and repairs, if you're unsure about the process or it poses a safety risk, it's best to consult a qualified professional for assistance. They can ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

Why It Matters

Staying on top of both the obvious and overlooked tasks helps protect your investment—and prevents small issues from turning into major expenses. If you're ever curious about which improvements or upkeep items could impact resale value down the road, we’re happy to provide advice specific to your home and neighborhood.