Owning a home comes with many responsibilities, from maintaining appliances to ensuring safety. Here are ten essential tips every homeowner should follow to keep their home in top shape:

1. Finding the Main Water Shut-off Valve

Knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve—whether for municipal or well water—is crucial for quickly addressing leaks and emergencies. Make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.

2. When and How to Change Your Furnace Filter

To keep your home’s air quality high, change your furnace filter every three months (or more often during renovations). Choose a MERV rating between 1 and 11 for most homes, and consult your furnace manufacturer for recommendations.

3. How to Clear a Drain Trap

Instead of using toxic chemicals, you can easily clean your drain trap by removing and rinsing it. This is a safer, quicker, and more eco-friendly way to prevent clogs and maintain healthy drainage.

4. Make Sure Your Fire Alarm Is Working

Check your smoke detector batteries monthly, or at least when changing the clocks. It’s a simple task that can prevent tragedy, as residential fires account for 73% of fire-related fatalities in Canada.

5. Clean Dryer Vents to Prevent Fires

Even after cleaning the lint trap, small particles can accumulate in the venting system. This increases the risk of dryer damage and fire hazards. Watch for longer drying times or a burning smell, and clean your venting system regularly.

6. Clean Gutters Before Major Snowfall

Regularly cleaning your gutters prevents water damage and ice damming. If you hire professionals, ensure they are reputable and use proper safety equipment to get the job done efficiently.

7. Caulk the Bathroom Shower and Wet Kitchen Areas

To avoid costly mold and rot issues, regularly check and replace caulking in your bathroom and kitchen. Use painter’s tape for a clean application to prevent water damage.

8. Inspect Exterior Window Seals

Regularly inspect the seals around windows and doors to prevent moisture damage and deterioration. This simple task can save you time and money by preventing costly repairs.

9. Know How to Reset a GFI

A Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) cuts power in hazardous situations, typically in areas like bathrooms and kitchens. It can be reset by pressing the popped-out button, but persistent tripping may require the help of an electrician.

10. Label Your Electrical Panel

Clearly labeling your electrical panel makes home renovations simpler, helps professionals quickly identify breakers, and saves you time and money in the long run.