Five Home Maintenance Projects for 2022

Each year, we strive to better ourselves by making and keeping a new set of resolutions. If you already know your New Year’s Resolutions, have you added some home maintenance projects to the list? Considering that we spend about 90% of our time in our homes (or even more over the last couple of years!), it’s a great idea to invest some energy into improving them. Here are a few ways to make your home safer and more comfortable in the upcoming year:

Reduce energy use by sealing and insulating the ducts from your heating and cooling system.

Ductwork can be found in hard-to-reach places, such as crawl spaces, attics and inside walls, so try to focus on those that are the most accessible first. Use duct sealants and fiberglass insulation – found at most hardware stores. This article provides more tips for cutting energy costs.

Improve indoor air quality by maintaining your HVAC system and changing furnace filters regularly.

Ventilate your kitchen and bathroom to reduce humidity and airborne pollutants. Use low-VOC paints on walls for a fresher home. If you have a fireplace, use real firewood instead of pressed wood which usually contains formaldehyde. More tips on how to keep indoor air fresh here.

Unclutter your home room by room.

Start with one area (such as the basement) and use boxes to organize your items by category. If you need extra storage space, use the spaces between wall studs or under the stairs. Consider investing in extra cabinets or even shoe organizers to store household items.

Reduce water use in the home by installing EPA-certified WaterSense products.

Another water-saving product worth mentioning is the low-flow showerhead, which reduces water flow while keeping the pressure high. If you have a pre-1994 toilet, consider replacing it with a low-flow toilet that requires just one gallon of water when flushed.

Drain a quart of water from your water heater every 3 months or so.

Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the heater and drain the water into a bucket or other recipient. This task will reduce the amount of sediment that built up in the water tank, prolonging the life of the heater.

Of course, you can always add other home maintenance project tasks to the resolutions list. Walk around the house and inspect every structural or mechanical aspect until you find something that could use some improvement. For professional fire, water, and mold restoration services, contact your local PuroClean office.

Don’t forget outdoor maintenance, too.
Your yard, gutters, and roof need regular attention just like the inside of your home. Trim back overgrown trees and shrubs, especially those near windows or the roofline, to reduce fire hazards and prevent moisture buildup. Clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and avoid water damage to your foundation. While you’re at it, inspect your roof for missing shingles, cracks, or signs of wear before they turn into leaks.

Schedule annual inspections.
It’s easy to overlook major systems until there’s a problem, but annual inspections can save you from costly repairs. Consider scheduling a professional check-up for your HVAC system, plumbing, electrical wiring, and even your chimney if you have a fireplace. Preventative care now can help you avoid inconvenient and expensive emergencies later.

Prepare for seasonal changes.
Each season brings its own set of home maintenance tasks. In spring and summer, check for pest infestations and ensure your cooling systems are working efficiently. In fall and winter, test your heating system, seal drafty windows, and stock up on cold-weather supplies. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your home comfortable year-round.

Create a home maintenance calendar.
To stay on track with your resolutions, map out a home maintenance calendar for the year. Break tasks down by month or season so you’re not overwhelmed. Setting reminders for things like air filter changes, gutter cleaning, or smoke detector tests can help you stay organized and keep your home in top condition.

Remember, a well-maintained home isn’t just about appearance—it’s about safety, comfort, and long-term value. Starting the year with a solid maintenance plan sets the tone for a more organized and stress-free living space. And if the unexpected happens, we’re here for you.