Owning a home is one of life’s most significant investments, and maintaining its major systems is key to protecting that investment. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly repairs, ensures the safety of your family, and keeps your home running efficiently. At Mike Holmes Inspections, we know the importance of proper upkeep for your home’s systems. As a trusted name in home inspections across Canada—serving Calgary, Toronto, Edmonton, Barrie, Halifax, Moncton, Vancouver, and Ottawa—our certified home inspectors provide expert guidance on how to keep your home in top shape.
In this guide, we’ll walk through maintenance tips for the major systems in your home, covering HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and more. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned property owner, these tips will help you better understand your home and protect its value for years to come.
Table of Contents
- HVAC System Maintenance
- Why It Matters
- Maintenance Tips
- Plumbing System Maintenance
- Why It Matters
- Maintenance Tips
- Electrical System Maintenance
- Why It Matters
- Maintenance Tips
- Roofing Maintenance
- Why It Matters
- Maintenance Tips
- Foundation and Basement Maintenance
- Why It Matters
- Maintenance Tips
- Appliances and Home Systems Maintenance
- Why It Matters
- Maintenance Tips
- Why Choose Mike Holmes Inspections?
- Final Thoughts
1. HVAC System Maintenance
Why It Matters
Your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable year-round. Neglecting it can lead to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and costly breakdowns.
Maintenance Tips
- Replace Filters Regularly: Change your furnace or air conditioner filters every 1-3 months to improve air quality and system efficiency.
- Schedule Annual Inspections: Have a professional inspect your system yearly to ensure it’s functioning properly. Mike Holmes Inspections’ Extended and Premium Home Inspection packages include Indoor Air Quality Assessments and Thermal Imaging, which can identify energy inefficiencies and potential problems.
- Clean Vents and Registers: Dust and debris can obstruct airflow. Regularly vacuum vents and registers to ensure proper circulation.
- Check for Leaks: Inspect ductwork for any leaks or damage, as this can lead to heat loss and decreased efficiency.
- Monitor the Thermostat: Test your thermostat regularly and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control over your energy use.
2. Plumbing System Maintenance
Why It Matters
Your plumbing system delivers clean water and removes waste efficiently, making it one of the most critical systems in your home. Poor maintenance can lead to leaks, water damage, and expensive repairs.
Maintenance Tips
- Inspect for Leaks: Check under sinks, around toilets, and along pipes for any signs of moisture or dripping.
- Clean Drains: Use strainers in sinks and tubs to catch debris and prevent clogs. Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners that can damage pipes.
- Flush the Water Heater: Sediment buildup can reduce your water heater’s efficiency. Flush it annually to remove debris and improve performance.
- Test the Sump Pump: Ensure your sump pump is functioning properly, especially before heavy rainfall or snowmelt.
- Get Regular Well Water Testing: If you rely on a well, Mike Holmes Inspections offers well water testing to identify harmful bacteria and ensure your water is safe.
3. Electrical System Maintenance
Why It Matters
A well-maintained electrical system reduces the risk of fires, shocks, and power outages. Regular checks help identify outdated wiring or overloaded circuits that could lead to hazards.
Maintenance Tips
- Test GFCI Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) should be tested monthly by pressing the “test” button.
- Inspect Breaker Panels: Check your breaker panel for signs of rust, burning, or wear. If you notice anything unusual, call a certified home inspector or electrician.
- Replace Damaged Cords: Inspect electrical cords for fraying or damage and replace them immediately to prevent fire risks.
- Avoid Overloading Circuits: Use power strips sparingly and ensure high-energy appliances are plugged into dedicated outlets.
- Upgrade Old Wiring: Older homes in cities like Halifax, Moncton, and Toronto may have outdated aluminum wiring. A home inspection can identify these risks and recommend necessary upgrades.
4. Roofing Maintenance
Why It Matters
Your roof protects your home from the elements. Neglecting roof maintenance can lead to leaks, water damage, and expensive repairs.
Maintenance Tips
- Inspect Annually: Look for missing shingles, cracks, or damage. Use binoculars to safely check from the ground or hire a certified home inspector to assess your roof.
- Clear Gutters: Keep gutters and downspouts free of debris to prevent water buildup and damage to your roof or foundation.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Trees near your roof can cause damage during storms and allow pests to access your home.
- Check for Sagging: A sagging roof may indicate structural issues that need immediate attention.
- Inspect Attics: Regularly check your attic for signs of water leaks, mold, or poor insulation.
5. Foundation and Basement Maintenance
Why It Matters
The foundation supports your home’s structure, and the basement is often the first area affected by water intrusion or poor drainage.
Maintenance Tips
- Inspect for Cracks: Small cracks in your foundation or basement walls can grow over time. Seal them to prevent water intrusion.
- Ensure Proper Drainage: Direct downspouts away from the foundation and ensure your yard slopes away from the home to prevent water pooling.
- Monitor for Moisture: Basements are prone to dampness. Mike Holmes Inspections’ mold sampling services can help detect hidden moisture issues.
- Install a Dehumidifier: Keep humidity levels in check to avoid mold growth and improve air quality.
- Test for Radon: Radon gas is a serious concern in Canada. Radon screening is included in our Premium Home Inspection to keep your family safe.
6. Appliances and Home Systems
Why It Matters
Your appliances and systems work hard every day, and regular maintenance extends their lifespan while ensuring efficiency.
Maintenance Tips
- Clean Dryer Vents: Lint buildup in dryer vents is a fire hazard. Clean them regularly to improve performance and safety.
- Check HVAC Filters: Replace filters in appliances like air purifiers and humidifiers according to manufacturer guidelines.
- Inspect the Garage Door: Test the auto-reverse feature and lubricate moving parts to keep your garage door functioning smoothly.
- Service Your Fireplace: For homes with wood-burning appliances, a WETT inspection ensures your fireplace or wood stove is safe and efficient.
- Schedule Annual Tune-Ups: Have your major appliances, like refrigerators and washing machines, professionally serviced to prevent breakdowns.
Why Choose Mike Holmes Inspections?
With locations all over Canada, including Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa, Mike Holmes Inspections provides expert evaluations to help homeowners stay on top of maintenance. Our three comprehensive inspection packages—Essential, Extended, and Premium—are designed to address every aspect of your home, from the basement to the roof.
We also offer specialty services like radon screening, mold sampling, and well water testing to give you a complete picture of your home’s health. Our certified inspectors follow the “Make It Right” philosophy to ensure your home is safe, efficient, and in excellent condition.
Final Thoughts
Regular maintenance is the best way to protect your home’s value and ensure a safe, comfortable living environment for your family. By following these tips and scheduling regular home inspections, you can catch potential issues early and avoid costly repairs.
If you’re a homeowner in Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, or anywhere across Canada, Mike Holmes Inspections is here to help. Schedule your home inspection today and let us help you “Make It Right.”
