Maintaining Your Home II

Owning a home is one of life’s greatest achievements. 🎉 But with that milestone comes responsibility—especially when it comes to maintenance. Your home is made up of several interconnected systems, and when one fails, the ripple effects can get expensive fast. 💸

In this post, I’ll break down the essential systems inside your home—from heating and plumbing to appliances and flooring—plus tips to keep everything running smoothly and save you money in the long run. 💡 If you would like to see how to maintain the exterior check out part one. 

❄️🔥 Heating and Cooling Systems

🔁 Forced-Air Systems

The most common system in many homes, forced-air furnaces, are powered by gas, electricity, or oil. Here's how to keep yours in top shape:

• 🔄 Change the air filter regularly. No one-size-fits-all here—learn your home's unique needs over the first year.

• 🧰 Annual servicing: Set aside $300 for a pro to keep your system running efficiently.

• 🧾 Replacement costs: Expect to pay $4,000 to $10,000 depending on your setup.

💡 Pro Tip: Use the same company every year. Loyalty often gets you priority service—random callers might wait weeks. ⏳

🌡️ Radiant Heating

Whether it’s radiant floors or those classic wall heaters, this type of heat uses water to warm your home.

• 💧 Purge the system annually to maintain performance. Budget around $600.

• 💬 Replacement costs: Too variable to guess—ask your technician during service for an estimate.

⚡ Ductless Mini-Splits & Electric Heating

Energy-efficient and offering cooling as well, these systems are becoming the go-to in many homes.

• 🧽 Clean filters regularly

• 🔍 Inspection every 3–5 years

Low-maintenance, high-impact. ✅

🌡️ Wall and Baseboard Heaters

• 👩🏽‍🦯 Vacuum monthly

• ⚙️ Replace when they fail 

🚿 Plumbing & Water Systems

🔥 Traditional Hot Water Heater

Simple, reliable, and still found in most homes:

• 🚿 Flush once a year (DIY or call a plumber).

• 🗓️ Lifespan: About 12 years

• 💵 Replacement cost: Around $1,500

⚠️ Don't wait for it to fail! Water damage from a leaking heater can cost tens of thousands. Be proactive.

💧 Tankless Water Heater

Space-saving and efficient, tankless units are growing in popularity:

• 🔄 Clean internal filter yearly

• 🗓️ Lifespan: About 12+ years

• 👨‍🔧 Professional cleaning: About $250

• 💰 Replacement cost: $1,500+

🧺 Appliances: Yes, They Need Love Too

Most appliances last 12–15 years, but water-related machines deserve extra attention:

• ⚠️ Inspect refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines semi-annually for leaks. Consider replacement by year 10 to prevent hidden leaks and water damage.

• ⚠️ Clean Dryer Vents Yearly to Prevent Fires

• ⚠️ Change Batteries on Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors on New Years Day

💵 Common Replacement Costs:

• 🧊 Refrigerator: $1,200

• 🔥 Stove/Oven: $700

• 🧼 Dishwasher: $700

• 👕 Washing Machine: $700

• 👖 Dryer: $600

• ♻️ Garbage Disposal: $120

🛁 Caulking & Grouting: Small Jobs, Big Impact

Bathrooms and kitchens take daily beatings from moisture. Keep them sealed:

• 🔍 Inspect caulking annually, and reapply where needed.

• 🧽 Seal grout once a year to prevent mold and stains. Clean thoroughly before sealing.

• 💵 Maintenance costs: A few hundred dollars, tops.

Remember: Water = Enemy #1. 💧

🧹 Flooring: What You Stand On Matters

🧼 Carpet

Carpet can last 7 years or more if properly cleaned.

• 🧽 Professional cleaning: ~$250/year

• 🔁 Replacement: Roughly $50 per sq. yard (installed)

🪵 Hardwood

Classic, beautiful—and can last forever with care.

• 🧴 Clean with vinegar + water

• 👟 No shoes indoors to prevent wear

• 💡 Options:

  • Screening: ~$3/sq. ft.

  • Full sanding/refinish: ~$6/sq. ft.

🪟 Other Flooring Types

Engineered hardwood, vinyl, and laminate are great alternatives—but handle with care:

• 🧼 Use a lightly damp mop like a Swiffer

• 💨 Let surfaces dry fast

• 🛑 Never let water pool—water ruins everything. 🙅‍♂️

🔦 Attics & Crawl Spaces: Out of Sight, Not Out of Mind

These spaces don’t need frequent attention—but don’t ignore them either.

• 👀 Check twice a year for signs of:

  • Water

  • Mold/Organic Growth

  • Rodents 🐭

If you see or smell anything unusual, call in a pro. Better safe than sorry. ✔️

✨ Wrapping Up

Your home is more than a building—it’s a living system. 🧠 Regular maintenance can help avoid disasters, save money, and protect your most important investment. Read my part one to see how to maintain the exterior. 

Have questions about your home or real estate in the Seattle area? I’ve got your back.

Rocky Flowers
Coldwell Banker Bain
In my business, you come first.