FIXER UPPER: COMMON HOME REPAIRS
No matter how careful one is in checking for repairs, some curveballs inevitably will appear through damages and malfunctioning appliances. However, one can prevent most of these issues from happening in the first place to save money, time, and labour.
Homeowners in Australia are aware that insurance does not cover certain home repairs and costs. For instance, a blocked sewer pipe and drain and structures that have deteriorated do not come under the insurance.
Insurance covers unexpected costs. And therefore, damage amplified by gradual decay cannot be covered. So it is vital that one identifies the issues early and takes action to rectify them.
Some commonly occurring issues and their remedies include:
1. Cleaning out dryer lint:
Sydney has reported numerous cases of dryer fires. Such instances are cause for concern as they are avoidable in the first place. Research shows that the main reason that incites such events is the presence of lint in the machine. Lint is a highly flammable substance, and therefore, the risk is accelerated. Keep an eye for the time, and if it takes too long for the clothes or the machine gets too hot, it is time for a check.
2. Replacing water hoses:
Hose failures in washing machines cause millions of dollars worth of damage. First, the responsibility lies with the owners to check their appliances regularly. Then, look for damages to the connections.
Leave enough space between the machine and the water source. Doing this distancing of at least 4 inches avoids damage caused by kinks in the pipes. One should not let the washing happen at home unmonitored.
3. Cleaning of fridge coils:
It is pointless to cry over milk after spilling it. One should rather be careful in handling appliances with care. For example, the coils of a refrigerator gather a significant amount of dust and other particles. It causes an unpleasant odour and may also restrict airflow. Such a situation will reduce efficiency and cause an increase in energy consumption, which in turn reflects on the energy bill.
The lifespan of all electrical appliances is affected by the care and cleaning given. Proper maintenance increases cooling capacity while reducing energy consumption. Use brushes or a soft cloth to clean the dust. Some of the newer models have an in-built encasing, in which case the owners need not fret.
4. Blocked Sewer Pipe:
It is one of the issues that require immediate professional help. Call a plumber in Australia before it worsens.
Sewage pipes can be blocked due to various reasons. It can damage the structures near it. Sewage also has countless disease-causing bacteria, and when left unchecked, it can cause significant health effects. Allergies, infections, and food poisoning are some of the damage it causes.
Structural damage to the pipes can also wreak havoc over time. It can encourage the growth of mould and other fungi that thrive in places with moisture. It is best to seek the help of an experienced plumber before the damages and costs increase.
5. Fixing Deteriorating Structures:
Masonry deterioration may happen due to a variety of causes. For example, bricks may collapse due to years of gradual degeneration. So when one notices cracks, it is vital to fix the issue at the earliest.
The cracks will widen over time, and the integrity of an entire structure may be compromised. Grouting can help mend minor repairs. For temporary house fixing, a combination of lime, sand, and cement is useful.
Being proactive can be an asset when it comes to cost costing and preventing expensive damages. For example, clean appliances and structures periodically and always seek professional help before a situation worsens.
Author Bio: Alison Lurie is a farmer of words in the field of creativity. She is an experienced independent content writer with a demonstrated history of working in the writing and editing industry. She is a multi-niche content chef who loves cooking new things.
