Taking care of your home means carrying out small maintenance tasks regularly - they help keep your home clean and safe to live in. Here is 24 Center's 11-point checklist for homeowners when it comes to annual home maintenance:
Checklist for annual home maintenance
- Clean the grease filter of the cooker hood (1-4 times a year)
- Clean water traps and floor drains (1-4 times a year)
- Vacuum behind household appliances (1-2 times per year)
- Defrost and clean freezer and refrigerator (1-2 times per year)
- Clean ventilation valves (1-2 times per year)
- Check the connections of the washing machine
- Lubricate door and window hinges
- Check the heater's elements and sauna stones
- Clean gutters on detached houses once a year
- If you have a fireplace - book a chimney sweep once a year
- Empty the grease trap
1. clean the grease filter of the cooker hood
The filter is only effective in removing cooking odors if it is sufficiently clean. Grease and dirt accumulate in the filter during cooking and can pose a fire hazard. Clean the filter every two months, but at least 1-2 times a year. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If the filter is replaceable: remove the dirty filter from the fan and replace it with a new one.
If it is washable: remove it and wash it with detergent. Metal filters can usually be washed in a dishwasher. Don't forget to clean the fan itself with detergent. Replace the filter only when it is dry.
2. clean water traps and floor drains
Dirt builds up in the siphon over time and impairs the flow. Regular cleaning also prevents water damage. Carefully loosen the water trap and remove the dirt. Clean the parts with water or mild detergent. Reassemble and check that there are no leaks.
Floor drains also need to be cleaned regularly. Hair from the shower can clog the drain and cause bad odors. Clean floor drains at least once a year, preferably 2-3 times. Open the lid, remove dirt and rinse. Replace the water trap and press the lid tightly.
3. vacuuming behind household appliances
Dust behind the fridge and freezer impairs air circulation and increases electricity consumption. It can also cause a fire hazard. Move the appliance and vacuum thoroughly behind it. Put it back in place.
4. Defrost and clean the freezer and refrigerator
If there is ice on the inside - turn off and unplug. Empty the contents and protect the floor from melt water. Leave the door open. Speed up defrosting with a bowl of warm water. Use e.g. a blunt scraper to remove ice gently. Clean the inside with a cloth and washing-up liquid. Leave to dry before turning on again.
5. clean the ventilation valves
Indoor air is exchanged via supply and exhaust air vents - keep them clean. Clean at least 1-2 times a year. If there are filters, they may need to be changed several times a year. Wipe off dust and dirt with a damp cloth. If necessary, remove the valve for thorough cleaning. Note: do not touch the adjustment on the center part of the valve in mechanical ventilation systems.
6. check the connections of the washing machine
Check the connections on both the washing machine and dishwasher 1-2 times a year. Water damage often occurs due to leaking connections. Check both incoming and outgoing water. If they feel loose or damp - fix them immediately. Do not use the machine until the problem is fixed. Installations should always be done by professionals.
7. lubricate door and window hinges
Check hinges regularly, at least once a year. Squeaking indicates a need for oil. Use hinge or silicone spray - or anhydrous cooking oil. Clean off metal dust before oiling. If that doesn't help, remove the hinge and clean it with steel wool. Oil and put back in place.
8. Check the sauna heater and sauna stones
Electric sauna elements can bend and affect the heat. Check the stones regularly - replace them if necessary. Worn stones leave stone residues on the floor. When the stones turn light gray, it is time to rearrange or replace them.
9. clean gutters
Overflowing gutters during rain indicate blockages. It can lead to moisture damage to the house foundation. Clear the gutters manually or with tools. At the same time - keep an eye out for loose fixings or open joints.
10. If you have a fireplace - book a chimney sweep annually
Property owners are obliged under the Rescue Act to ensure that sweeping is carried out regularly. This affects fire safety and the draft in the chimney. Since 2019, the property owner is responsible for booking a chimney sweep.
11. Empty the grease trap
The grease trap prevents grease from reaching the sewage system. It should be emptied regularly. In particular, empty the grease trap, which should also be cleaned. Grease causes both blockages and odor problems. Emptying can be done preventively or in case of blockages. Sludge trucks help with both.
Via 24 Center, you can book a sludge truck all year round. Whether it's for a household or a restaurant - we handle emptyings of all sizes.
24 Center helps you with building technology maintenance
24 Center is an on-call center for building technology that offers quality services - regardless of time and place. We help both in acute emergencies and with everyday tasks. Through our wide network, you can find the best technicians in your region. Find the nearest available plumber, electrician, locksmith or sludge truck with one call - 020 74 24 70 - or book a non-urgent job via our online service here.
