🧰 Handyman Hub’s Tips for Home & Small-Business Maintenance

 

(We can do these tasks for you!)

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🏡 General Tips for Home

1. Keep a Monthly Maintenance Checklist
   Stay ahead of problems with a recurring list: test smoke alarms, check filters, inspect plumbing, and walk the perimeter of your property.

2. Use Silicone Lubricant on Hinges & Sliding Tracks
   Quiet squeaky doors and smooth out sticky sliding doors or windows with a quick spray.

3. Label Your Breaker Panel Clearly
   Use printed labels or a label maker to clearly identify what each breaker controls—especially useful in emergencies.

4. Know Where Your Main Shutoffs Are
   Identify and label your main water, gas, and electrical shutoffs so you (or others) can act fast during leaks or repairs.

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💡 Electrical & Lighting Tips

1. Replace Flourescent Bulbs with LEDs
   They last longer, use less energy, and reduce heat buildup—especially in recessed ceiling fixtures.

2. Install Smart Plugs or Timers
   Great for both home and business: automate lights for security or energy savings.

3. Fix Flickering Lights Immediately
   Flickering can mean a loose connection or overloaded circuit—don’t ignore it. Turn off power and check, or call a pro.

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💻 Technology & Wi-Fi Tips

1. Restart Your Router Weekly
   A simple reboot can resolve slow connections and improve network performance.

2. Elevate Your Router
   Place routers in central, elevated locations—not behind furniture—for better Wi-Fi coverage.

3. Label Charging Cords
   Use small tags or tape to identify which charger belongs to which device—especially helpful in offices with shared electronics.

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🧼 Appliance & Utility Tips

1. Clean Dryer Vents Every 6–12 Months
   Prevent fires and improve drying times by removing lint buildup from your duct and vent hood.

2. Vacuum Refrigerator Coils
   Dusty coils make your fridge work harder and use more energy. Clean every 6 months.

3. Change HVAC Filters Regularly
   Replace every 1–3 months depending on pets, allergies, or business type. A dirty filter = higher bills.

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🚪 Doors & Furniture

1. Tighten Loose Door Latches
   A small fix that can prevent damage to the internal mechanism over time.

2. Use Felt Pads on Furniture Feet
   Protect hardwood floors and make moving furniture easier (and quieter!).

3. Lubricate Hinges and latches
   Keep the moving parts of your door working smoothly and silently.

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🔧 Water Systems

1. Run Water in Unused Drains
   In guest bathrooms or unused offices, run water monthly to prevent traps from drying out and causing odors.

2. Check for Leaks Under Sinks
   A quick look under each sink every month can help catch slow leaks before they cause serious damage.

3. Flush Your Water Heater Annually
   Sediment buildup reduces efficiency and lifespan—flushing it once a year can help.

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🎨 Walls, Paint, Caulking

1. Use Anchors When Mounting to Drywall​​
   Don’t skip wall anchors—they prevent shelves, TVs, and frames from pulling away from the wall.

2. Touch Up High-Traffic Areas Twice a Year
   Keep touch-up paint handy for scuffs, chips, and marks—especially in offices or homes with kids or pets.

3. Use Paintable Caulk for Trim Gaps
   Seal joints in baseboards, crown molding, or window trim for a clean, finished look before painting.

4. Keep a Paint Log
   Record paint brands, colors, and sheen for each room or space—it’ll save tons of time later!

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🪟 Windows & Doors

1. Use Vinegar to Clean Window Tracks
   Spray with white vinegar, scrub with an old toothbrush, and wipe clean to remove grime buildup.

2. Weatherstrip Drafty Doors
   Seal gaps with adhesive weatherstripping to improve insulation and save energy.

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🪴 Outdoor & Seasonal Tips

1. Clear Sprinkler Heads Before Spring
   Check for broken or clogged heads, and make sure none are blocked by grass or mulch.

2. Inspect Fencing After Storms
   Wind and water can loosen posts or damage panels—catch it early to avoid big repairs.

3. Trim Vegetation Away from AC Units
   Keep at least 2–3 feet of clear space around outdoor HVAC units for proper airflow and easier maintenance.

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🏢 Small Business Tips

1. Schedule Preventive Maintenance Quarterly
   Regular inspections of lighting, plumbing, and safety features (like fire extinguishers) help avoid downtime.

2. Secure All Cords and Power Strips
   Prevent trip hazards and protect devices by routing cables properly and using covers or cord managers.

3. Keep a Basic Tool Kit On-Site
   Include screwdrivers, a hammer, tape measure, flashlight, and zip ties—essential for quick fixes without waiting for help.