Owning a home comes with an endless list of responsibilities, and even the most attentive homeowner forgets things. The problem is that the little things are often what lead to the big problems—burst pipes, broken HVAC systems, mold growth, and costly emergency repairs.
To help you stay ahead of it all, here are the 10 most commonly forgotten home maintenance tasks—and why they matter more than you think.
1. Dryer Vent Cleaning (Fire Risk!)
Cleaning the lint trap is not enough. Over time, lint builds up inside the dryer vent hose and exhaust duct, creating one of the leading causes of home fires.
How often to do it:
- Clean lint trap: after each load
- Clean vent duct: every 6–12 months
Signs it's overdue:
- Clothes take longer to dry
- Outside vent flap sticks
- Dryer feels unusually hot
2. Water Heater Anode Rod Replacement
Most homeowners have never heard of the anode rod, but this small part prevents your water heater from rusting from the inside out.
How often:
- Every 2–5 years
3. HVAC Condenser Coil Cleaning
Dust, leaves, pollen, and dirt reduce efficiency and strain your system.
How often:
- Twice per year (spring + fall)
4. Refrigerator Coils Vacuuming
When the coils behind or under your fridge get dusty, the compressor works harder… and eventually burns out.
How often:
- Every 6 months
5. Toilet Seal/Gasket Checks
The wax ring under your toilet can degrade, causing slow leaks you never notice—until the floor underneath begins to rot.
Signs of a failing seal:
- Musty smell
- Soft flooring around toilet
- Water at base
6. Sump Pump Testing
Many homeowners don't even know they have one—until a storm hits and the basement floods.
Test schedule:
- Every 3 months
- After major storms
7. Caulking Around Windows, Tubs, and Showers
Old or cracked caulk allows water to seep into walls, leading to mold and structural damage.
Where to inspect:
- Bathroom tile edges
- Shower corners
- Around sinks
- Window sills
8. Gutter and Downspout Flow
Clogged gutters cause roof leaks, foundation damage, and basement flooding.
Maintenance schedule:
- Minimum twice per year (spring + fall)
- More often if you have trees
9. Garage Door Lubrication & Balance Check
A garage door is the largest moving object in your home—yet most people ignore it entirely.
- Prevents motor burnout
- Avoids track damage
- Prevents stuck or crooked doors
Maintenance:
- Lubricate every 6 months
- Test balance annually
10. Exterior Drainage & Grading Check
If the soil around your home settles and slopes toward your foundation, water collects—leading to basement moisture, foundation cracks, and mold.
How to check:
- Walk the perimeter after rain
- Ensure soil slopes away from house
- Add soil + re-grade if needed
Stay Ahead of It All With Intelligent Reminders
Manual tracking is difficult. That's why NestorAI automatically:
- Logs your home systems
- Tracks maintenance intervals
- Sends reminders before things break
- Helps prevent costly emergencies
Never forget a task again—let NestorAI manage it for you.
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