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Ten cheap jobs that prevent big repair bills
Small, inexpensive tasks that protect against the most costly home repairs.
The most expensive repairs usually start small: a clogged gutter, a dripping supply line, a filter nobody changed. These jobs take an afternoon and a few dollars.
The list
- Clean gutters and point downspouts at least 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation.
- Replace rubber washing machine hoses with braided stainless ones.
- Change furnace and AC filters on schedule.
- Re-caulk around tubs, showers and sinks when the caulk cracks.
- Look under sinks for drips every few months.
- Drain a few gallons from the water heater once a year to clear sediment (follow the manual).
- Clean the dryer vent duct, not just the lint screen.
- Trim branches away from the roof and siding.
- Disconnect garden hoses before the first freeze.
- Test the sump pump before the rainy season, if you have one.
Track it
Our free Repair-Ready checklist and the members' planner include these jobs so you can tick them off.
General information, not legal, financial or construction advice. Prices and rules vary by state and city. Affordable Home Assistance doesn't take referral fees or payments from any contractor, lender or brand.