There is no question that a functional home is essential. Not only does it provide a place of comfort and stability, but it is also crucial for your health and well-being. Studies show that individuals who live in cluttered, disorganized homes are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Furthermore, a functional home can help you save money by reducing the need for repairs and replacements.
Assuming that you already have the basics covered (e.g., a roof over your head, running water, electricity), you will still need to ensure that all essential systems are running smoothly. Furthermore, you must ensure that you know maintenance and repair skills to keep each running correctly. You might only have to cover the most straightforward problems, but improving your home maintenance skills won’t hurt.
You should keep an eye on four systems in a functional home, and these will all be part of them.
Plumbing
The plumbing system is one of the essential systems in your home. It is responsible for carrying fresh water into your home and taking waste water out. To keep your plumbing system in good working condition, you should:
- Check all pipes and fixtures regularly for leaks.
- Ensure that the traps in your sinks, tubs, and showers are not blocked.
- Clean your drains regularly to prevent clogs.
- Install a water filtration system to remove impurities from your water.
However, the plumbing can go wrong, including pipe bursts. Those problems can cause a myriad of issues, including expensive water damage. That’s why it is essential to know how to shut off the water in your home.
If you experience a plumbing problem, you should:
- Turn off the water at the main supply valve.
- Drain the pipes by opening all of the faucets in your home.
- Call a plumber to fix the problem.
Fortunately, you can have the plumbing system fixed with the help of a professional before the problem gets out of hand.
Electrical
The electrical system is another essential system in your home. It powers everything from your lights to your appliances. To keep your electrical system in good working condition, you should:
- Check all cords and plugs regularly for fraying or damage.
- Replace any damaged cables or plugs immediately.
- Do not overload outlets by plugging in too many devices.
- Use extension cords only when necessary; never run them under carpets or furniture.
However, every homeowner should be wary of dealing with electrical issues because of the hazardous risks involved. A professional electrician will know how to deal with any electrical problems safely.
Heating and Cooling
The heating and cooling system regulates the temperature in your home. To keep your heating and cooling system in good working condition, you should:
- Change the filters regularly.
- Have the system serviced by a professional at least once a year.
- Keep vents and registers clear of debris.
- Inspect ductwork regularly for leaks or damage.
While most homeowners can take care of changing the filters and keeping the vents clear, it is best to leave servicing the system to a professional. High-quality air conditioning service includes cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and oiling motors. These are all tasks that require specialized knowledge and tools.
The furnace, however, works by burning fuel to generate heat. As a result, it produces carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas that can be deadly. That’s why having a carbon monoxide detector in your home is essential. If the sensor goes off, you should:
- Evacuate your home immediately.
- Do not re-enter your home until the authorities say it is safe.
- Call a professional to inspect your furnace and make any necessary repairs.
While most homeowners are not at risk of dealing with carbon monoxide poisoning, it is still essential to be aware of the dangers and know what to do if there is a problem.
Home Structure
The home structure is the final system on the list. It includes everything from the foundation to the roof. To keep your home in good condition, you should:
- Inspect the exterior of your home regularly for damage.
- Repair any cracks or holes in the foundation.
- Trim trees and bushes away from your home.
- Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly.
- Inspect your roof for damage and have it repaired as soon as possible.
While most homeowners can handle trimming trees and cleaning gutters, repairing cracks in the foundation or fixing a roof is best left to a professional. Otherwise, you could end up with more significant problems down the road.
Final Thoughts
The four systems of a functional home are plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, and home structure. To keep your home in good working condition, you should regularly inspect each system and make necessary repairs. However, some tasks are best left to a professional.
