10 Tasks Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do

Whether you’re a first-time or veteran homeowner, there are some things you should know how to do around the house, without having to call a professional. Here are our top 10 tasks you can tackle on your own and how to do them.

1. Change AC/Furnace FilterReplace the air filter on your central heating/cooling system every one to three months to keep the system operating efficiently.



2. Clean AC Drain LineIf your home is equipped with a central air conditioning system, you may have noticed a drain line dripping water near the outside AC unit. This line drains condensation from the inside air handler to the outside. If this line clogs (usually from algae) it can cause water damage inside the house.



3. Shut Off Main Water LineTurning off the water is the first step in stopping a leak or making other plumbing repairs, so it’s important locate the main water shutoff valve to your home now before you need it in an emergency.



4. Repair a Running ToiletA toilet that runs constantly or doesn’t flush properly can be quite a nuisance and huge waste of water. There are several common problems associated with toilets that are fairly easy to diagnose and repair.



5. Unclog a DrainThere are a variety of home remedies for clogged drains that don’t require chemicals which can damage your plumbing system. Here’s how to unclog bathroom or kitchen sink drains in no time using a drain snake or a plunger.



6. Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsTo keep your family safe from smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide (CO), install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and near bedrooms.



7. Hang Pictures and Heavy Items ProperlyWalk down the hardware aisle of any home center, and you’ll find an overwhelming array of wall anchors and picture hangers. Many homeowners have difficulty figuring out how to secure items – especially heavy ones – to the wall.



8. Repair Drywall HolesDrywall can become damaged over time, from small nail holes to larger holes from door knobs. It’s not that difficult to repair, if you know how to go about it.



9. Clean Gutters and DownspoutsGutters on your home serve an important function by diverting rainwater from your roof away from the foundation of your house. Leaky or clogged gutters and downspouts can cause rainwater to run into eaves, resulting in rotten fascia or soffit boards.



10. Tune Up a Lawn MowerTo keep your lawn mower running smoothly, it’s important to maintain it properly. At the start of the season, tackle these three tasks: change the oil, replace or clean spark plug, and replace or clean air filter.