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Top 5 Home Maintenance Mistakes That Can Cost You Big

17. April 2025 Larry Divine How To Articles, Quick Tips (0)

House projects are a year-long thing, and no matter what you’ve gotten done, there’s always something else on the to-do list. Home maintenance mistakes can cost you big time — a lot of money that (sometimes quite literally) goes down the drain.

Winter, spring, summer, and fall… the list is never ending. But while it may be cheaper to handle most of the simple tasks by yourself, there are some things that should be left up to professional contractors.

When making a home DIY checklist for each season, avoid these 5 mistakes that could end up costing you a lot of money in the long run.

Disinterest

Indifference and procrastination are actually the biggest mistakes any homeowner can make. Houses need upkeep, whether from DIY projects or by professional contractors. Putting off house maintenance may lead to serious damage to the structure’s foundation. (One way to keep yourself in the maintenance loop is to bookmark a home, yard, and garden parts link on your phone or computer). Not paying attention, blowing off necessities, and ignoring signs of termites and other insect infestations could end up costing you a bundle.

Routine Inspections

Checking out the property each season with an eye for detail is something you must do. Make a checklist for each component of the house, such as plumbing, heating and air conditioning, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, foundation inspection, and the crawlspace and attic — just to name a few. If there’s something amiss in these areas, you’ll never know unless you look! Even (or especially) in the best cities for tackling home improvements, inspecting the house is the first step to knowledge — what needs to be done and whether or not it’s a top priority. Putting off until tomorrow what you must do today may lead to a huge maintenance bill.

Heating and Cooling Maintenance

Ignoring your HVAC system can lead to a breakdown at the worst time…during a freezing cold winter or sweltering hot summer. Replacing the heating and cooling system will cost thousands of dollars –– something that would be necessary at some point, of course. But you may be able to put off that hefty purchase by giving the HVAC system a once-over, at least once or twice a year.

Replacing filters is an easy DIY job. But “real” maintenance of furnaces and air conditioners is best done by professionals. Technicians will look at refrigerant levels, air flow, connections, safety controls, and everything else they know about — more than you do. (Watching a YouTube video does NOT make you an expert in heating and air conditioning). Make a mistake with natural gas or electric furnaces and you could end up with a burned-out house.

Plumbing

Just like HVAC, DIY plumbing mistakes can cost you plenty of dough, especially if they lead to code violations.

Fixing a toilet flusher, valve, and leaky faucet are simple enough tasks but most plumbing projects are a bit more complex. Still, one mistake DIYers make is forgetting to turn off the water — not doing so can cause flooding, even if you think you can do the project quickly. Damaged threads or valves can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage. Turning off the main water valve or separate location valves is the easiest way to avoid unexpected – and potentially costly — floor damage.

Licensed plumbers are generally bonded and insured and they know local plumbing codes. Plumbers will inspect the entire system and fix whatever needs to be fixed. If any mistakes are made, they are responsible for fixing them. But if you decide to forgo hiring a professional plumber for any kind of work that leads to serious damage, your insurance company may not pay for any claims. DIYers may cause more damage to the plumbing system that can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs.

Gutters and Roof Maintenance

Gutters get clogged with leaves, bird droppings, twigs, and flying debris. If homeowners don’t clean the gutters at least once or twice a year, the gunk can lead to water damage to the foundation of the house.

At the same time, roof maintenance is more than adding some sealant and replacing a shingle here and there, although that must also be done as needed. Holes, rotted boards, torn or missing flashing, and weakened facades can end up costing a lot — damage that an insurance company may NOT pay for, especially when it’s damage that was done over time (and not weather-related).

House maintenance projects are a concern when homeowners cannot realistically determine what they can and cannot do by themselves. The biggest mistake you can make is believing you can do better than the professionals. That’s when the home fix-up costs get mighty pricy, especially when the pros have to undo all the wrong stuff you’ve done.

Teri Silver is a journalist and outdoor enthusiast. She and her husband live on 5 acres with a vast lawn, three gardens, a farm, a pond, many trees, and a lot of yard work! The best parts of the year are summer and fall when home-grown veggies are on the dinner table.

Photo by: Eric Schmuttenmaer

Top 5 Outdoor Power Equipment Maintenance Tips for Longevity and Efficiency

28. March 2025 Kathelene Paul How To Articles, Quick Tips (0)

Outdoor power equipment is essential for keeping your lawn, garden, and landscape in pristine condition. Whether you’re a homeowner maintaining your yard or a professional landscaper, the reliability of your tools—such as lawnmowers, leaf blowers, trimmers, and chainsaws—depends on proper maintenance. Keeping these machines in top shape not only extends their lifespan but also ensures they perform at their peak efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore the top five outdoor power equipment maintenance tips to ensure long-lasting and optimal performance.

Additionally, we’ll discuss the role of energy management, and even touch on the importance of devices like a kWh meter in tracking energy consumption.

1. Regular Cleaning and Debris Removal

One of the most crucial steps in maintaining outdoor power equipment is keeping it clean. Dirt, grass clippings, and other debris can accumulate on various parts of the machine, causing parts to wear down and eventually fail. Regular cleaning of your equipment ensures that it runs smoothly, stays efficient, and prevents clogging or overheating.

Cleaning Tips:

Air Filters: Clean or replace the air filter on your machine regularly. A clogged air filter reduces airflow to the engine, making it work harder and less efficiently. This can cause the engine to overheat and shorten its lifespan.
Decks and Blades: After using your lawnmower or any similar equipment, clean the deck and blades to remove grass clippings and dirt. Not doing so can cause the mower to work harder than necessary, wasting energy and reducing efficiency.
Fuel Tank: Ensure the fuel tank is clean and free of any rust or debris. Old fuel can clog the system, leading to poor performance or even engine failure.
Exhaust and Cooling Fins: Clean the exhaust and cooling fins to prevent blockages that can lead to overheating. Overheated engines are less efficient and can experience permanent damage over time.

Using a soft cloth or brush is typically sufficient to clean most parts. However, for tougher areas, such as under the deck of a lawnmower, a pressure washer can come in handy—just make sure not to damage any delicate parts.

2. Check and Change Engine Oil

Just like a car, the engine of your outdoor power equipment requires regular oil changes to keep it running smoothly. Oil lubricates the engine’s moving parts, preventing friction and excessive wear. Over time, the oil breaks down and becomes contaminated, reducing its effectiveness. Without proper lubrication, the engine can overheat or experience internal damage, which will decrease its efficiency and lifespan.

Oil Change Tips:

Frequency: Check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how often to change the oil. For most outdoor equipment, an oil change is typically recommended after every 50-100 hours of use.
Type of Oil: Make sure to use the correct type of oil recommended by the manufacturer. Using the wrong oil can cause the engine to work inefficiently and wear out faster.
Proper Disposal: Always dispose of used oil in an environmentally responsible manner. Many auto parts stores or local recycling centers offer oil disposal services.

Changing the engine oil at regular intervals ensures smooth engine operation and helps maintain fuel efficiency. The engine will run more smoothly, requiring less energy to perform tasks, and reducing the overall wear on the system.

3. Sharpen and Maintain Blades

The blades of outdoor power equipment, such as lawnmowers and hedge trimmers, experience significant wear and tear due to constant contact with grass, soil, and other debris. Dull blades not only lead to poor performance but also cause the engine to work harder, consuming more energy and fuel. Sharpening your blades regularly ensures that they cut efficiently, leaving a clean finish while minimizing wear on your equipment.

Blades Maintenance Tips:

Sharpening: Sharpen blades at least once a season or more frequently if they become dull or nicked. For lawnmowers, it’s a good idea to have the blades professionally sharpened every year.
Balancing: After sharpening the blades, make sure they are properly balanced. An imbalanced blade can cause vibration, which can lead to engine damage and increased wear on other parts of the machine.
Inspection: Before using your equipment, inspect the blades for any signs of damage, such as cracks or bends. Damaged blades should be replaced immediately to avoid causing further harm to your equipment.

By keeping your blades sharp and in good condition, you ensure smoother cuts with less effort, saving both time and energy in the process. Sharpened blades are also less likely to cause the engine to work harder, thus improving the overall efficiency of your equipment.

4. Fuel System Maintenance

The fuel system is a vital component of any outdoor power equipment. If the fuel system is not maintained properly, your equipment may not start or perform poorly, resulting in wasted time and energy. Old fuel is one of the main culprits when it comes to engine trouble, as it can clog fuel lines, the carburetor, and the fuel filter.

Fuel System Maintenance Tips:

Use Fresh Fuel: Always use fresh, clean fuel in your equipment. Fuel that has been sitting for an extended period can become contaminated with water or break down, causing blockages in the fuel system. It’s a good idea to use fuel stabilizers if you plan to store your equipment for an extended period.
Fuel Filters: Check and replace the fuel filter if necessary. A clogged fuel filter can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, causing it to run poorly.
Carburetor Cleaning: Over time, the carburetor can become clogged with debris and old fuel. A clean carburetor ensures that the engine gets the proper air-fuel mixture, leading to better combustion and more efficient performance.
Avoid Overfilling: Never overfill the fuel tank, as it can cause fuel to spill, which not only wastes fuel but also leads to potential fire hazards.

Proper fuel system maintenance ensures that your equipment runs smoothly and that the engine doesn’t work harder than necessary, which in turn improves both performance and energy efficiency.

5. Monitor and Adjust Electrical Components

For some outdoor power equipment, especially electric-powered models, monitoring the electrical system is crucial for ensuring long-term performance. One such component to consider is the electrical meter, or kWh meter, which can help monitor your energy consumption. Whether you have an electric lawnmower, trimmer, or another tool, using a kWh meter allows you to track how much power your equipment uses, helping you make more energy-efficient choices and even saving you money on energy costs.

Electrical Maintenance Tips:

Check Battery (for Cordless Equipment): For battery-powered equipment, regularly check the battery condition. Batteries that are not properly maintained can lose their ability to hold a charge, reducing the efficiency of the equipment. Always recharge batteries according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Inspect Cords and Plugs: For corded equipment, check the power cords for any wear, cracks, or fraying. A damaged power cord can not only affect performance but also pose a safety hazard. Replace any damaged cords immediately.
Electrical Connections: For electric-powered equipment, inspect the electrical connections regularly to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion or dirt. A loose or corroded connection can lead to poor performance or even failure.

Using a kWh Meter: By using a kWh meter, you can monitor how much electricity your electric-powered equipment uses. Tracking these measurements allows you to assess your equipment’s energy efficiency and identify potential areas for improvement. If you notice excessive energy consumption, it may indicate that your equipment needs maintenance or that it’s time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model.

Conclusion

Maintaining your outdoor power equipment is essential for ensuring longevity, efficiency, and performance. By regularly cleaning, changing the oil, sharpening blades, maintaining the fuel system, and monitoring electrical components, you can ensure that your equipment stays in top shape for years to come. Additionally, using tools like a kWh meter to monitor energy consumption can help you make smarter, more efficient choices when it comes to powering your equipment.

Proper maintenance not only saves you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs and replacements but also helps protect the environment by ensuring that your equipment runs as efficiently as possible. With these tips in mind, you can keep your outdoor power tools operating at peak performance, allowing you to take care of your yard or garden with ease and efficiency.

The Best Rechargeable Tools for an Eco-Friendly Move

27. March 2025 Jassica Mendez General Industry News, How To Articles, Quick Tips (0)

If you want to make your relocation more sustainable, consider incorporating rechargeable tools for an eco-friendly move! These versatile and sustainable tools both streamline the moving process and minimize environmental impact! By opting for them, you can reduce reliance on disposable batteries, minimize waste, and contribute to a greener future for out planet!

Why We Need Rechargeable Tools for an Eco-Friendly Move

Traditional moving methods often involve heavy reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles, contributing significantly to carbon emissions. According to recent studies, the transportation sector, including moving trucks and vans, accounts for a substantial portion of greenhouse gas emissions. After all, using traditional moving methods exacerbates air pollution and contributes to traffic congestion and noise pollution in urban areas. Moreover, the extraction and transportation of fossil fuels for these vehicles further harm the environment through habitat destruction and water pollution. Therefore, we must do whatever we can to combat this, including rechargeable gadgets!

Rechargeable Tools for Packing

While it may initially sound unusual, some tools can assist you with packing! For example, a hand drill like the DEWALT DCD777C2 20V MAX Cordless Drill can be invaluable. You can use it for effortless furniture disassembly, which is always a hassle without such a tool. Likewise, a rechargeable screwdriver, such as the BLACK+DECKER BDCS50C, can be incredibly handy for removing screws and fasteners. For securing items in boxes, a rechargeable tape gun, like the REXBETI Cordless Electric Staple Gun, offers convenience and efficiency! With these tools' versatility and eco-friendly nature, packing becomes efficient and environmentally responsible.

Taking furniture apart can take hours without the right tools!

Rechargeable Tools for Transportation

Researchable tools can also be useful for transporting things. For example, an electric hand truck, like the Makita XUC01PTX1, lets you effortlessly move heavy items. Furthermore, an electric dolly, such as the Milwaukee 800-lb Capacity Convertible Hand Truck, offers efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional gas-powered ones. For keeping perishable items cool during transportation, a rechargeable portable refrigerator, like the Dometic CFX3 55IM, is a practical choice, too. These tools streamline the transportation process and help spare you a ton of back pain. Best of all, they're highly eco-friendly, like everything else on our list!

An electric dolly makes it so much easier to transport heavy items or furniture!

Rechargeable Tools for Cleaning

Cleaning is always a large part of moving, so it’s important to take care of it sustainably. Therefore, consider looking into a rechargeable vacuum cleaner, like the Dyson V11, for efficient and cordless cleaning. In addition, a rechargeable pressure washer, such as the Sun Joe SPX3000, offers convenience and effectiveness for outdoor cleaning tasks. These tools are great since they’ll continue to be used even after your relocation.

Rechargeable Tools for Home Renovation

While tools are always necessary during home renovation, at least you can ensure you’re using sustainable ones! So, consider getting a rechargeable power saw, like the Ryobi P508 Circular Saw, for cutting without the hassle of cords. Similarly, rechargeable sanders like the Bosch ROS20VSC provide efficiency and ease of use for smoothing surfaces. These tools were built for ease of use and efficiency. Therefore, you can continue using them for a remarkably long time before you need to charge them again. This makes them all the more valuable during renovation since they’re likely to see heavy use.

The usefulness of rechargeable tools for an eco-friendly move extends far past the move itself!

Rechargeable Tools for Gardening

There are several useful tools you can consider for tackling your gardening needs during a move. First, consider investing in a rechargeable lawn mower, like the EGO Power+ LM2142SP, for efficient and cordless grass cutting. Then, rechargeable trimmers such as the BLACK+DECKER LST136 offer convenience and precision for trimming and edging tasks. These boast both sustainability and good performance, so you’ll be using them long after your move, too!

Recycling and Disposal of Old Tools

When you’re done with using your rechargeable tools for an eco-friendly move, and they’ve finally broken down, you need to dispose of them responsibly, too! Instead of simply throwing them away, consider recycling them through local recycling programs. Many places in the country offer electronic waste recycling programs where old tools can be properly disposed of and recycled. Besides, some retailers may accept old tools for recycling when purchasing new ones. Of course, you need to check with local authorities or recycling centers to determine the proper disposal method for specific types of tools!

Finding the Right Eco-friendly Movers

If you want to ensure a smooth and responsible move, choosing the right moving company is essential. With more companies prioritizing sustainability and customer satisfaction, it’s important to look for movers that align with your needs. Start by researching companies that demonstrate reliability through transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and proper licensing. If eco-friendliness is a priority, consider movers that use biodiesel trucks, offer recyclable packing materials, and take steps to reduce carbon emissions. Checking for certifications or affiliations with industry organizations can also help confirm their credibility. Additionally, inquire about their policies on recycling and waste disposal to ensure responsible handling of materials. Reading testimonials from past customers can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

Tips for Maximizing Efficiency

To maximize efficiency during your eco-friendly move, consider implementing a smart home setup. This setup allows you to remotely control various aspects of your home, optimizing energy usage and reducing waste. Smart thermostats, like the Nest Learning Thermostat, can help regulate heating and cooling, ensuring energy is not wasted when rooms are unoccupied. Smart lighting systems like Philips Hue allow you to schedule and control lights to minimize electricity consumption. Finally, smart plugs enable you to monitor and manage the energy usage of appliances and electronics, preventing unnecessary power consumption!

Make Your Move Easier At No Environmental Cost

Choosing rechargeable tools for an eco-friendly move is a practical and impactful decision. By utilizing these sustainable alternatives, you both streamline your relocation and contribute to reducing carbon emissions and minimizing environmental impact! So, investing in them aligns with the country’s commitment to sustainability and promotes a greener future!

Laptop Photo By: Meminsito
Dolly with Bags Photo By: Jazella
Man Screw-driving Photo By: Matt Antonioli
Screwdriver with Gloves Photo By: Bru-nO

Spring 2025 Home Maintenance Checklist

27. March 2025 Larry Divine General Industry News, How To Articles, Quick Tips (0)

Spring … it comes around every year (thankfully!). And with all the buds, blooms, and bright colors comes an important home maintenance checklist. Cleaning, repairing, and upgrading your home will keep it running smoothly for years to come. Just as important, a well-maintained house and property is a draw for buyers if and when the time comes to put it on the market.

Add these tasks to your spring 2025 (and beyond) home maintenance checklist.

Inside

Spring cleaning is more than dusting, vacuuming, and throwing away junk that’s accumulated over the past year. Here are some inside tasks to add to your to-do list.

Windows and glass doors. Cloudy days are best to wash glass windows and doors because direct sunshine dries the cleaning solution too quickly, leaving streaks. Store-bought glass cleaning products or homemade solutions (1/4 cup rubbing alcohol, 1/3 cup vinegar, distilled water) and a microfiber cloth get the job done. Wipe down window sills and glass door tracks.

Carpets and rugs. Ground-in dirt and pet hair add up throughout the year, and spring is the time for deep cleaning carpets and rugs. Hiring a professional is optimal, but you can rent a rug cleaner to do it yourself.

Woodwork and surface cleaning. Design woodwork, fireplace mantels, baseboards, ledges—clean areas anywhere dirt and grime can settle. Dig your way under appliances and furniture. Curtains, blinds, light fixtures, and ceiling fans get dusty, too.

While you’re in cleaning mode, hit the pantry, refrigerator, and oven. Clean those dusty refrigerator coils—it helps the unit use less energy. In the bathrooms, clean all sinks, tubs, toilets, and showers. On to the bedrooms—wash all bedding, move furniture for dusting and vacuuming, flip and reposition the mattresses. In the laundry room, clean the dryer vent thoroughly.

Indoor Inspections

Making sure everything works properly is a high priority for your home maintenance list.

Window screens. Window screens get dirty and grimy, especially after a rainy autumn and snowy winter. Clean window screens with a blast of soapy water—nozzle hoses and water pressure units are good for this. (Just make sure the soap is thoroughly rinsed out of the screens). Repair any holes (or replace the screens entirely). Be sure the screens are fully dry before reinstalling. (Tip: leaf blowers are helpful in removing loose dirt and drying the screens).

Drain the hot water heater. Cleaning out the tank prevents sediment build-up.

Furnace inspection and cleaning. This project is best done by a professional, but DIYers can change the filters. Furnace maintenance in the spring is the best time to do it so you don’t get stuck with a broken furnace come winter.

Air conditioner. This project is also best suited for a professional HVAC technician. If you didn’t have this done over the fall or winter, do it now. Don’t wait until summer’s heat to find out the AC is on the fritz.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test the alarms and replace batteries at least every six months. (Tip: Write the dates on masking tape attached to the batteries). Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can save your life.

Leak detection. Moisture can get into a home’s foundation. A musty, moldy smell indicates the possibility of leaks in the floor, ceiling, or walls. Sink areas may have wetness, especially in the bathrooms and kitchen. Check for wetness around the dishwasher, refrigerator, toilets, bathtubs, and water heater.

Weather stripping protects doors and windows from air that comes in and leaks out.

Outdoors

Yearly outdoor home maintenance keeps the house in good shape. Add these tasks to the checklist.

Gutter cleaning and inspection. Cleaning gutters safely is a chore to do in the spring and fall. Gutters get clogged with leaves, tree limbs, bird droppings, and flying debris from windy days.

Home foundation inspection. Check out the base of the house—look for water damage, cracks, bulging, and buckling. A shifting foundation and crumbling chimneys are jobs for masonry experts. While you’re at it, check out the patio and deck for rotten or warped wood, or cracked cement. Clean out all vents.

Exteriors. Check out the home’s exterior for anything that looks out of place. Vinyl or aluminum siding may get broken or cracked. Wooden trim may need a fresh coat of paint. Replace any damaged Hardie Plank pieces.

Lawn Equipment. Spruce up the mower by cleaning or changing the spark plugs, charging batteries, sharpening blades, replacing oil, inflating tires, and greasing up what needs to be greased. Keep it simple; find a go-to place for mower and yard care parts. Speaking of yard care, prune up the trees and shrubs near the house to keep them from damaging nearby windows and the roof. Test lawn sprinklers and replace holey hoses.

More Outdoor Tasks

Remove standing water to discourage mosquitoes and other insects from breeding. Dry areas that are prone to mold.

Look for termites; they are most active in the spring. If you find signs of termite infestation, it’s time to call a professional exterminator.

Get ready to fire up the grill! Check out all hoses, connections, and propane (if it’s a gas grill) to be sure there are no cracks or leaks. Scrub the racks.

No matter what time of year, putting off home maintenance projects could end up costing you big bucks later on. Set up that spring maintenance schedule today and start ticking off the projects. A little attention now could save some big expensive headaches down the road.

Photo By: Polina Tankilevitch

Top 5 Home Maintenance Mistakes That Can Cost You Big

Top 5 Outdoor Power Equipment Maintenance Tips for Longevity and Efficiency

The Best Rechargeable Tools for an Eco-Friendly Move

Spring 2025 Home Maintenance Checklist

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