Jul 9, 2009 12:14 pm US/Eastern
Angie's List: Repairs You Shouldn't Avoid
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
In this economy people are reluctant to spend money so many are putting off those big ticket home remodeling projects. But postponing certain projects is not a good idea. Making simple repairs can play a big role in saving you money.
If you're like most people, you probably don't think about weather proofing in the summertime.
"It's just as important in the summer as it is in the winter because it will keep that cool air inside this summer," Angie's List founder Angie Hicks said. "For weatherstripping, check around doors and windows to see if you have enough weatherstripping. A good trick: take a lit candle, hold it up near the door or window. If the flame flickers a lot, you probably need more weatherstripping."
Angie reminds you not to ignore your plumbing.
"One of the big money wasters around your house is leaky faucets, could just be a small leak around a sink or toilet but it could lead to around $100 in wasted water bills each year," she said. "Have a plumber out and have those leaks taken care of.
"A good way to check to see if you have a toilet that runs all the time is to put a couple drops of food coloring in the tank. If it comes through to the toilet bowl, then you know you have a problem."
The Top 5 Repairs You Can't Afford to Put Off:
1.
Change your air filters. HVAC experts estimate that 60 percent of all service calls are the result of dirty filters. Changing air filters regularly (every month or so), especially if you have shedding pets or kids frequently running in and out. MONEY SAVINGS: You up to $100 each year in energy costs.
2.
Repair leaky faucets and running toilets. Doing so could save hundreds of dollars per year on your water bill. And don't neglect your sump pump (to test, fill with water and go outside to make sure the pump is actually discharging water.) Check the batteries and update the appliance every few years. MONEY SAVINGS: A flooded basement will cause thousands of dollars in damages, not to mention the loss of personal possessions.
3.
Check the caulking around your tub and shower for moisture penetration, which can lead to mold. Bath fixtures can avoid premature replacement if the tile surface is kept watertight, and the subsurface, usually drywall, remains dry. MONEY SAVINGS: Bath fixtures will last longer if the tile and drywall surfaces are kept watertight.
4.
Inspect electrical cords and outlets for signs of distortion, discoloration or cracks in the insulation, and hire an electrician to replace tired outlets that no longer hold a plug. MONEY SAVINGS: A defective receptacle, light switch or fixture replaced during a scheduled visit will save you hundreds of dollars over an emergency repair.
5.
Weatherproof windows and doors. These are the two areas with the largest amount of air transfer in both cold and hot weather. Use a digital thermometer to check the seal quality and inspect the caulking for areas that have cracked or shrunken, which will allow water to damage siding and floors. MONEY SAVINGS: Once sealed, use a programmable thermostat to help regulate air temperature, which could save you up to 10 percent on your monthly energy bill. Consider getting a home energy audit.
Angie's List is a membership organization. If you're thinking of joining, you can get 20 percent off of a yearly membership through the end of the year by using the promotion code "CBS 3" when you sign up online.
Related Link:
www.angieslist.com
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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