Home Repair & Renovating: Homeowners Guide DIY Home Repair Book Money-Saving Projects
Author: Sofa, Trisha
Date: 2020-05-11

Home Repair & Renovating
Homeowners Guide DIY Home Repair Book
Money-Saving Projects
Trisha Sofa
Copyright © 2020 Author Name
All rights reserved.

ISBN
:
9798643666288

DEDICATION

The author and publisher have provided this e-book to you for your personal use only. You may not make this e-book publicly available in any way. Copyright infringement is against the law. If you believe the copy of this e-book you are reading infringes on the author copyright, please notify the publisher at: https://us.macmillan.com/piracy.

Contents
Acknowledg e               i
Household Items to Replace and When
The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist

The Life Expectancy of Major Household Appliances

How Often You Should Clean Your Home Appliances

Lowering Your Electric Bill
Way You Can Save Water
Easy 30-Second Chores

Acknowledge

Home renovation can increase the value of your home for simply make your home more comfortable to live in now.

Half the joy of owning your space is the opportunity to turn your new house into a home. Unfortunately, it can also feel like twice the cost! If you're looking for ways to personalize your space, check out our suggestions for getting started, browse our best tips to make any project easier.

Household Items to Replace and When

You will improve your home’s function and safety when you replace certain indoor and outdoor items regularly. Simply add these 16 home improvement tasks to your calendar, and you’ll stay on top of necessary and beneficial home updates.

1. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke detectors last up to 10 years. Carbon monoxide detectors last up to seven years. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that working smoke detectors increase your house fire survival chances by 50 percent, so in addition to replacing these devices regularly, remember to replace the batteries in both detectors at least annually.

2. Fire Extinguisher

Rechargeable fire extinguishers last up to six years. Disposable fire extinguishers have a 12-year shelf life. To ensure your fire extinguishers are ready to keep you safe, check the pressure gauges monthly and verify that they’re still charged or full. Recharge or replace the extinguishers if needed.

3. Water Filters

The water filters in your refrigerator should be replaced once every six months, in your portable water pitcher every two months or 40 gallons, and in your whole house system every three to six months. This schedule reduces your exposure to harmful bacteria, chemicals and heavy metals as you stay hydrated.

4. Refrigerator

Plan to replace your refrigerator every 15 years. You may opt for an earlier replacement to take advantage of energy-efficient models, particularly since a 10-year-old refrigerator uses twice the energy of a newer Energy Star rated model.

5. Dishwasher

A dishwasher may last eight to 10 years if you regularly clean the tub, door, accessories, and other parts. Consider replacing your dishwasher around year eight if you want to save money on your water and energy bills.

6. Washing Machine

If you clean and maintain your washing machine regularly, it should last eight to 12 years. Your maintenance tasks may include replacing the door gasket or tightening water connections under the machine if you see leaks. You may also need to balance the machine or replace the motor mount if the machine makes excessive noise.

7. Clothes Dryer

Replace your entire dryer once every eight to 10 years. In the meantime, you can replace numerous dryer parts, including the drive belt, drum roller, blower wheel, and heating element when needed. You’ll also want to clean the dryer vent after each use to improve the dryer’s efficiency and prevent a fire.

8. Water Heater

After eight to 12 years, you will want to replace your water heater. Drain this appliance twice a year to reduce sediment buildup and improve efficiency. Additionally, you can lower the thermostat to reduce overheating and prolong the life of your water heater.

9. Shower Head Filters

Change your shower head filters every six to 12 months. Mineral deposits affect the shower head’s efficiency, and bacteria buildup affects your health and the shower head filter function.

10. Carpet

Carpet can last up to 10 years under ideal conditions. If your carpet suffers damage from pets or kids, replace it sooner since pet stains can cause asthma, allergies or skin and eye irritations.

11. Windows

Vinyl windows typically last 25 years or longer depending on the manufacturer. While you can repair caulk or weather-stripping if you notice minor leaks around your windows, you’ll want to replace your windows if the frame rots or the seal around the window breaks.

12. Air Conditioner

Install a new air conditioner unit every eight to 10 years. Regular maintenance may prolong the life of your air conditioner, but humidity issues, temperature fluctuations, or excessive noise signal that it’s time to replace the unit.

13. Furnace

A maintained furnace should last 15 to 20 years. If you notice issues before that time, try replacing the filter, cleaning the ductwork and sealing any gaps in the system.

14. Wooden Deck

There’s no set time frame on when you should replace your wooden deck, but keep an eye out for damage, including mushy, discolored or damp wood, and loose railings, nails, or screws. HomeAdvisor suggests replacing only damaged deck boards or the entire deck as necessary to promote safety and enhance your home’s curb appeal and value.

15. Gutters

Aluminum gutters will last 30 years if you clean and maintain them regularly, but you’ll have to replace vinyl gutters more frequently since they can be damaged easily. Check your gutters and downspouts after heavy storms or at least twice a year to verify that they remain properly connected to the house and don’t leak or overflow.

16. Roof

Metal or clay tile roofs last up to 50 years. Wood shake or shingles last 30 years. Composite or asphalt shingles usually last up to 20 years. No matter which type of roof your house has, replace it sooner if you notice leaks, sags, or curled, cracked or missing shingles.

The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist

For many owners, home maintenance happens only when something goes awry. Overflowing gutters, a balky furnace, or a chimney that refuses to draw provoke an expensive emergency call to service technicians. Worse, your family's safety could be in jeopardy when key areas of your home are neglected for too long. To limit or even eliminate service delays, preserve your home's value, and keep everyone comfortable, follow this home maintenance checklist on a regular basis.

1. Winter

With cold temperatures and harsh elements pressing in, the focus of winter home maintenance is damage control. Because of inclement weather, you may not have the leisure to do extensive exterior repairs.

- From a safely secured ladder, check gutters and the lower roof for ice dams and eliminate as necessary.

- Check that the covers are still on the outside hose bibs (faucets) and that they have not iced up.

- Use this indoor-friendly season as your opportunity to clean the basement, garage, and other interior spaces that get neglected during warm, sunny months.

- Keep an eye on your electrical service drop and the line that leads from your home to the power pole (only if you have above-ground electric service). If large branches have fallen on or are hanging on the line, call the electric company for removal.

- Make sure that the ground next to the house is graded away from the house to prevent interior flooding.

2. Spring

- Spring home maintenance is chiefly about cleaning up after the mess and damage inflicted by winter.

- Clean the gutters and, using a water hose, make sure that they drain.

- Check the exterior siding for damage and repair as needed.

- When the roof is dry and safe to walk on, check shingles, flashing, and vents for damage.

- Clean and replace window screens.

- Trim back trees that may deposit branches on your home. For branches near power lines, call your electric company for pruning.

- In late spring, install window unit air conditioners.

- Reverse ceiling fans so that the vanes rotate in a counter-clockwise direction. This will move air downward, cooling the room.

3. Summer

With higher temperatures and low precipitation, summer affords comfortable working conditions to make intensive repairs that were not possible in prior seasons.

- Make repairs to the home's siding and paint the exterior as needed.

- Clean and repair your outside deck.

- Wash and apply a sealant to wood fences.

- Flush out your water heater to empty it of sediment.

- Clean debris from window wells.

4. Fall

Home maintenance during the fall season is focused on preparing the house for winter.

- Test the sump pump by pouring water down the sump pit until the pump turns on.

- Remove and store the window screens.

- If your home has storm windows, install them.

- Remove window unit air conditioners. If you have central air conditioning, winterize it.

- Call in a furnace service and have them perform annual maintenance.

- Call in a chimney cleaning service or clean the chimney by yourself.

- Winterize exterior hose bibs (faucets) by protecting them with foam covers.

- Remove leaves and debris from garden ponds and water features.

- Reverse ceiling fans so that the vanes rotate in a clockwise direction. This will help distribute the warm air that collects near the ceiling.

- Perform regular quarterly maintenance.

5. Regular Quarterly Maintenance

Every three months, perform these critical maintenance tasks:

The Life Expectancy of Major Household Appliances

With the rising costs of major appliances and greater attention to the environment, it makes sense to maintain and preserve your major appliances for as long as possible. Appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers are better built than ever before, so you can expect them to last for their full life expectancy and even beyond.

Understanding how long appliances should  last helps you maintain them for their proper lifespan—without unnecessary repairs for machines that legitimately should be replaced.

Life Expectancy of Major Appliances

Appliance

Years

Gas ranges

15

Electric ranges

13

Range and oven hoods

14

Dryers (electric and gas)

13

Refrigerators

13

Garbage disposals

8 to 12

Freezers

11

Washing machines

10

Microwaves

9

Dishwashers

9 to 10

Gas Ranges

Expect most gas ranges to last about 15 years when well-maintained. Gas ranges generally are durable appliances that have simple maintenance schedules.

Regularly clean the grates with warm water and mild detergent.

Do not use abrasives on the gas range top or grates.

Avoid inserting sharp objects into the holes in the burners, especially items that can break off such as toothpicks.

Electric Ranges

Similar to gas ranges, electric ranges are relatively hardy appliances that can be expected to last up to 13 years.

Use metal drip bowls to protect the range against spills and aid in cleaning.

Remove the electric elements on a regular basis and clean with a sponge and a non-abrasive cleaner.

With the elements, drip bowls, and dials removed, clean the top of the electric range with warm water and a sponge.

Range and Oven Hoods

Cooktop, stove, and oven hoods are fairly simple appliances that can be expected to last 14 years or more with regular maintenance.

Hoods bear the brunt of cooking grease and food splatters. Clean the top and inside with hot water, a sponge, and a mild detergent.

Pay attention to the filter and clean it on a regular basis. Grease on the metal filter can be dissolved by soaking the filter in hot, soapy water, followed by rinsing with cold water.

Do not allow the duct to become clogged as this will retard performance and may even lead to fires.

Dryers (Electric and Gas)

Whether electric or gas, most dryers will last about 13 years on a regular maintenance schedule.

Remove and clean debris from both the screen and the vent leading to the outside. Dust, fiber, and lint clogs are a major contributor to dryer fires.

Never put soiled clothes in a dryer. Clean the inside of the dryer drum only with a soft cloth and a mild cleaning agent.

Clean the outside of the dryer with a sponge and warm water.

Refrigerators

Even though refrigerators constantly operate for 24 hours a day, they can still be expected to last up to 13 years.

Regularly vacuum the air intake at the base of the refrigerator to clear it of dust and other debris. A clogged air intake will overwork the compressor and lead to premature failure.

Maintain the rubber door gaskets by frequently wiping them down with mild cleaner and a soft cloth.

Make sure that the drain pan at the bottom of the refrigerator does not fill with water and spill out. Remove the pan and drain it, then clean it with warm, soapy water and a sponge.

Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposals grind food matter into particles small enough to flush down drain pipes. Because this intense work taxes the motor, garbage disposals might last as little as 8 years. With regular maintenance, though, garbage disposals can last as much as 12 years.

Regularly clear debris from the bottom of the disposal. Always be sure to unplug the disposal before clearing the disposal.

Avoid forcing grease, bones, pasta, eggshells, potato peels, and fibrous materials like pumpkin or celery down the garbage disposal.

Check the screws that suspend the disposal to the bottom of the countertop to make sure that the unit remains firmly in place. Tighten with a manual screwdriver or cordless drill if the screws are loose.

Freezers

Standalone freezers usually will last up to 11 years on a regular maintenance schedule.

Wipe down the inside and outside of the freezer a couple of times a year with dish soap and water, always being sure to rinse off the soap with clean water.

Look at the back of the freezer and vacuum off dust and lint from the coils.

Consult the freezer for the recommended temperature. Typically, this is around 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

Washing Machines

Expect your washing machine to last up to 10 years. Since washing machines work hard at agitating and spinning clothing, it is imperative that you keep a close eye on yours in order to extend its lifespan.

Always keep clothing balanced in the drum.

Keep the drainage line clean and clear.

Regularly clean the washing machine drum.

Microwaves

Most microwaves can be expected to last up to 9 years.

Frequently wipe down the inside of the microwave to clean it of food splatter.

Remove the carousel tray and clean it in the sink. Also, clean the area underneath the carousel to ensure smooth rotation.

Run the microwave only when food or liquids are inside; never run the microwave when it is empty.

Dishwashers

Dishwashers must be kept clean on a regular basis to ensure an expected 9 to 10 year lifespan.

Consult your dishwasher instruction guide for the proper way to stack plates and drinking vessels.

Keep an eye on the bottom of the dishwasher to make sure that it is properly draining, plus keep that area clean.

Make sure that the dishwasher air vent is always kept clear and clean.

How Often You Should Clean Your Home Appliances

Ever give the appliances you use nearly every day a second thought? Sure, you notice if they don't work or smell really bad. But if you clean them regularly to remove bacteria and grime that slows performance, these expensive workhorses can work better and last longer.

Clean Your Refrigerator Every 3 Months

Make refrigerator cleaning easier by wiping up spills when they happen and wiping down handles and dispenser controls daily with a disinfecting wipe to remove bacteria from lots of hands. Once a week, take a few minutes to check for food that needs to be tossed to prevent the growth of mold and mildew that spreads quickly.

Empty the fridge completely of food, shelves, and bins every three months for a thorough cleaning. Dispose of anything that is past its prime. Mix a solution of one teaspoon liquid dishwashing soap and one-quart hot water. Use a clean sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe down the interior, paying extra attention to any spills. Then wipe down surfaces with a clean dry cloth.

Wash the shelves and bins with the same detergent and hot water solution. Rinse well and dry completely before putting them back in the refrigerator. Along with the food, add a new, opened box of baking soda to help absorb odors and you're done.

If you have a self-defrosting freezer compartment, follow the same cleaning steps. For a frost-filled freezer, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for defrosting and cleaning.

Now that the inside is clean, unplug the refrigerator, pull it away from the wall, and vacuum behind and underneath. You may need to remove a vented cover to reach every crevice. If the coils and fans are coated with dust, the refrigerator must work harder to keep things cool.

Clean the Dishwasher Once a Month

Clean your dishwasher with vinegar and baking soda once a month to keep it working well. With an empty dishwasher, remove the bottom rack and check the drain strainer and detergent dispenser for any debris. Clean the strainer with a soft-bristled brush and replace the rack. Fill a glass bowl with one cup of distilled white vinegar and put it on the top rack. Run a hot water wash cycle but skip the drying cycle. Open the dishwasher and sprinkle in one cup of baking soda along the dishwasher floor. Run another short, hot water cycle.

Your dishwasher interior is now free of grease and odors and good to go for another month. At least once a year or if your dishwasher isn't cleaning well, take the time to do a more thorough cleaning.

Give the Garbage Disposal a Weekly Cleaning

Even with all that water flowing through a garbage disposal, it still needs a weekly cleaning to keep odors at bay. While grinding up a few citrus peels can add a nice fragrance, they don't really do a good cleaning job, but there is a quick way to clean the disposal:

With the disposal turned off, create a cleaning foam by pouring in 1/2 cup baking soda and then slowly adding 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar. The combination will foam up to reach every crevice. Use the sink stopper to trap the foam inside. When the fizzing stops, flush with hot water. If you have a double sink, do both drains at the same time for the best results.

Clean a Cooktop and Oven Seasonally

Just like the refrigerator, you won't have to do heavy-duty cleaning often if you wipe up spills and splatters immediately. Both smooth cooktops and those with burners can be cleaned with mild dishwashing soap and a hot water solution. Never use harsh cleaners or metal scrubbers that can mar the finish. A plastic spatula works best to remove hardened food.

If the cooktop has metal drip pans or grids over gas burners, they can stand up to a heavy scrubbing and should be cleaned monthly. You'll get the best results if you allow the drip pans to soak in a solution of degreaser and hot water for about 30 minutes before scrubbing with steel wool or a stiff brush.

Ovens should be cleaned seasonally. The best time to clean is after a big holiday cooking marathon, not before! If the oven is self-cleaning, follow the manufacturer's directions. For regular ovens that aren't very dirty, use a paste of baking soda and water as a mild abrasive and grease remover. For baked-on messes, rely on a commercial oven cleaner and follow the directions.

Easy Weekly Microwave Cleaning

Microwaves are so easy to clean, you should do it weekly to prevent a huge job later. Simply fill a microwaveable bowl with one cup of water. You can add some lemon slices if the microwave has strong odors. Turn on the microwave and bring the water to a boil; then let it sit inside for at least five more minutes. Open the door and use a dampened cloth to wipe down every surface. Turntables can go in the dishwasher or simply be wiped down. Be sure to clean the handle and touchpad with a disinfectant wipe to kill bacteria and germs.

If you have a combination microwave and vent hood mounted over your stove, don't forget to give the vent filter a regular cleaning.

Monthly Routine for a Clean Washer

How can you expect to have really clean clothes if your washer is dirty? Front load washers often have a problem with musty odors and even top load washers should be cleaned monthly to remove detergent residue that traps soil and bacteria. Fortunately, it's a simple job. Add one-quart chlorine bleach to an empty washer and run a hot water wash cycle with an extra rinse cycle.

Clean the Dryer Filter After Every Load

Since dryers don't use water, the key to keeping them running their best is to empty the lint filter after EVERY load of laundry. If you use dryer sheets or liquid fabric softeners, clean the moisture sensor inside the dryer drum with a bit of isopropyl alcohol, monthly. Fabric softener and dryer sheets can leave a film on the sensor that disrupts drying times.

Lowering Your Electric Bill

Say goodbye to high electric bills. These tips will help you increase your home efficiency for year-round savings.

Get an Energy Audit

Many utility companies offer a free home energy audit to customers, and it is well worth taking advantage of. If there is no such program in your area, conduct your own energy audit instead. It will clue you into areas where you could trim your energy use.

Install Dimmer Switches

The key to saving energy is within reach. Switch to dimmer switches, so you only use as much light as you need.

Keep Your Fridge and Freezer Full

Everyone always tells you to keep the fridge closed. But did you know that keeping your fridge and freezer full can also save money? Food acts as insulation and lessens the amount of time that the fridge has to run to stay cool.

Install Ceiling Fans

Keep the air circulating in your home with ceiling fans so your air conditioner does not have to work as hard.

Line Dry Your Laundry

Set up a clothesline in your backyard, and let Mother Nature dry your laundry. If this is not an option, consider hanging clothes on a drying rack or shower rod. If you do not like line-drying due to the way the clothes feel, learn how to keep line-dried clothes from getting stiff.

Eliminate Phantom Loads

A shocking 75 percent of the energy used by home electronics is consumed when they are turned off. Phantom loads of electric usage come from televisions, DVD players, stereos, computers, and many kitchen appliances—basically anything that holds a time or other settings. A simple solution is to plug all of these items into power strips and get in the habit of turning off the strips between uses.

Shield Your Home From the Sun

Cut down on your air conditioning use by closing curtains and blinds on the sunny side of your home. For even more savings, consider installing tinted window film.

Change Your Filters Regularly

Keep your HVAC system running at peak efficiency by changing the filter every 30 days. Set a reminder on your phone, so you do not forget.

Switch to LEDs

LED light bulbs use 90 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs. Switch out the most widely used bulbs in your home. Then, replace the rest as they burn out.

Landscape for Shade

Plant trees to shade your home, and your air conditioning will not have to work as hard.

Upgrade to Energy Star Appliances

If your appliances are 10 years old or older, consider replacing them with new, Energy Star models, which use considerably less energy.

Install Low-Flow Showerheads

If you install low-flow showerheads, that means less water flowing equals less water to heat.

Get a Programmable Thermostat

Set a programmable thermostat to run less when you are at work and when you are sleeping.

Pile on the Blankets

An extra blanket on your bed in the winter months is often all it takes to push back the thermostat another couple degrees and cut your heating costs.

Clean Your Dryer Lint Trap

Remove the dryer lint from your dryer's trap after each load to maximize the machine's efficiency. Then, scrub it down with soapy water and a brush once every couple months to remove any additional lint trapped in the screen.

Cool Down Food Before Putting It in the Fridge

Placing hot foods in your fridge will increase the interior temperature and cause your refrigerator to work harder.

Keep Your Second Refrigerator in the Basement, Not the Garage

The extreme temperatures in your garage—hot in the summer and cold in the winter—will cause your refrigerator to work harder; so if you have a choice, place your second refrigerator (or freezer) in the basement, where the temperature is more constant.

Way You Can Save Water

Reduce your water bill, and your impact on the environment with these water-saving tips:

Use Your Dishwasher

Contrary to popular belief, it takes more water to hand-wash dishes than it takes to wash them in the dishwasher.

Don't Pre-Rinse Dishes

Scrape food from plates, and let your dishwasher do the rest.

Only Run the Dishwasher When Full

You'll use the same amount of water whether you run a full load or a partial load.

Install a Faucet Aerator

It screws onto the bottom of your faucet to reduce water flow, without reducing water pressure. You can even get some that swivel to allow you to direct the water where you need it. Note: If you have a newer faucet, it may already have one built-in.

Keep Drinking Water in the Fridge

Then, you won't waste water while you wait for the tap to get cold. Another option: Fill a cup with tap water, and drop in a couple ice cubes to chill it.

Heat Water on the Stove/in the Microwave

Then, you won't waste water while you wait for the tap to get hot.

Install a Point-of-Use Hot Water Heater

If you regularly need hot water for pots, dishwashing, and hot drinks, consider installing a point-of-use hot water heater (also known as an instant hot water system) under the kitchen sink. It’ll supply you with hot water as soon as you turn on the tap, and only costs a couple of hundred dollars.

Don't Use the Disposal

Compost food waste or throw it in the trash. Both are water-free options.

Take Shorter Showers

Aim for a five-minute shower. With a low-flow showerhead, you'll use 12.5 gallons of water or less. Compare that to 37.5 gallons for a 15-minute shower, and the savings is pretty easy to see.

Check Toilets for Leaks

According to the National Sanitation Foundation, a leaky toilet can waste as much as 500 gallons of water each day! Place a dye tablet (free at home improvement stores) in the toilet tank, and watch to see if the dye seeps into the bowl. If it does, you have a leak that needs to be addressed.

Replace Your Toilet Flapper Once a Year

Toilet flappers break down quickly and should be replaced once a year–even if they say they're good for longer. A couple of dollars spent on a replacement flapper will save you much more on your water bill.

Install a Fill Cycle Diverter

Save another 1/2 gallon per flush by installing a fill cycle diverter in each of your toilets. This simple add-on costs less than a dollar and is designed to divert overflow water back to the tank during the fill cycle.

Place a Bottle in the Toilet Tank

Fill a bottle with water, and place it in the toilet tank. It'll displace water, and cause the tank to fill with less water. Just how much water will this save? An amount equal to the size of the bottle that you placed in the tank. A 20 oz. bottle, for example, will save 20 oz. of water per flush.

Switch to a Low-Flow Toilet

When it's time to replace your toilet, replace it with a low-flow model that uses 1.6 gallons per flush, compared to a traditional toilet, which uses 3.6 gallons. Or, learn how to convert any toilet to a low-flow.

Utilize Greywater

Save your cooking water, unused drinking water, and the water that comes out of your shower while you're waiting for it to warm up. Then, use it to water your plants.

Place Your Hot Water Heater Close to Where You Use It

The shorter the distance the water has to travel, the faster you'll have hot water.

Water With Soaker Hoses

Use a soaker hose to water the plants in your yard, and you'll have precise control of where the water goes–and more importantly–where it doesn't.

Easy 30-Second Chores

Even if you only have a half a minute to spare, you can accomplish these important chores. With a busy, over-scheduled life we seldom have extra time to take care of anything. These quick, easy chores will only take a moment of your time.

Empty the trash in the bathroom. The small trash cans in our homes can sometimes be overlooked until they are overflowing. Make this chore easier and more quickly accomplished by storing extra liners in the bottom of the trash can. It will only take a moment to wrap up the used liner and open up the new one.

Dust the TV screen. The television screen seems to always need a good dusting. Try a used dryer sheet to help keep dust from resettling.

Change the vacuum cleaner bag or empty the dirt bin. Whether your vacuum cleaner is a bagless or bagged a vacuum full of dirt puts more wear and tear on your machine. Take a moment and double-check your bag or bin. Remembering to perform regular vacuum cleaner maintenance is essential to keeping your machine running well.

Clean a mirror. Try using vinegar and newspaper to clean your mirror. The vinegar will help the mirror dry streak-free. A newspaper will leave less fuzzy residue than paper towels.

Clean an appliance. Take a moment and wipe down the outside of your dishwasher, refrigerator, oven, washing machine, or dryer. Don't forget about the outward appearance of the machines you depend on. Wipe up spots and spills quickly, and your appliances will only need an occasional thorough wipe down.

Change the towels in a bathroom or in the kitchen. Prevent cross-contamination of germs and bacteria by frequently changing hand towels and kitchen towels.

Test your smoke alarm. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly and batteries should be replaced at least annually. Try testing the battery on the same day of the month to help you remember. Similarly, you might replace the batteries yearly on a memorable date. Many people replace batteries when they change their clocks for Daylight Savings Time.

Dust air vents. The vents and wall around the vents attract dust. Take a few moments to wipe down the vents in a room or two.

Change the battery in a clock. It may seem like a little thing until you need to know the time.

Sprinkle baking soda into your trash can. Occasionally sprinkling baking soda in your garbage will help prevent trash odors from overtaking your home.

Toss junk mail, catalogs, or magazines. If stacks and piles of papers, magazines, and catalogs litter your home, try taking a few moments to throw out some junk paper. Get extra tips for reducing piles of paper in your home.

Treat a stain. It only takes a few moments to remove many common stains. Try this list for stain removal.

Dust or water plants. Keep plants healthy by remembering to dust and water plants regularly.

Wipe down a countertop. The newest disinfectant wipes make it easy to quickly wipe down a countertop to prevent germs from spreading or food from sticking to your surfaces.

Wipe down the forgotten areas. Wipe down doorknobs, handles, switch plates, remote controls, and telephones. These often-used items rarely get remembered when its time to clean. Take a few moments to quickly wipe them down.

Clean out the fridge. Thirty seconds may not be time enough to do a thorough cleaning, but it is enough time to pour out the expired milk hidden at the back, or throw away the mysterious foil-wrapped package lurking in the deli drawer.

Replace the box of baking soda in your fridge or freezer. Using baking soda in the refrigerator is a great way to reduce odors, but the box of baking soda does need to be changed.

Clean the lint filter of your dryer. Lint not only keeps your dryer from running efficiently, but it can also pose a fire hazard. Take a few moments and double-check your dryer's lint trap.

Sweep the entryways of your home. Most of the dirt that ends up on our carpets and floors, gets tracked into our homes by unsuspecting guests. Sweeping the entryways helps keep more of it outside.

Clean out the cupholders and cubby holes of your car. Don't forget to maintain the interior of your home on wheels. Clean out the hidden places where trash gets stowed.

Throw away empty cleaning containers. Wherever you keep your cleaning supplies, you're bound to have a few that should be tossed. Make more space for the things you really use by throwing out old or empty cleaning bottles.

Sort through prescription medication. Throw away expired and unused prescriptions. Not only will you help free up space for other items, but you'll also reduce the risk of poison or accidental indigestion.

Prevent or help drain clogs with baking soda, vinegar, and hot water. Baking soda and vinegar can be a great help to freshen and unclog drains. It only takes a moment to prevent major headaches.

Shake out your entry and exit floor mats. It's best to have two doormats for each entrance of your house. One mat should be placed inside while the one with the bulk of the work to do goes outside. Remember to regularly shake out and clean these rugs to prevent dirt and debris from ending up in your home.

Toss trash and clutter from one small area. Try cleaning out your junk drawer. Taking a few moments to clean trash and clutter out of one small area will give you the motivation to accomplish even more challenging projects.

Dust down a ceiling fan. Grab a duster and wipe off the blades of a ceiling fan. You'll prevent dust from building up, and keep the fan in good condition for use.

Wipe down the blinds. You can use a used dryer sheet or microfiber dust cloth. Wipe across the blinds to keep them dust-free.

File today's mail. We can get overwhelmed with the amount of mail we receive, but after you toss out the junk, take a moment to put away mail that needs to be kept.

Vacuum tops of doors and windowsills. Take a half a minute to vacuum a windowsill or the top of a door. Dust often collects in these areas but may go unnoticed during routine cleaning.