Top 5 Home Maintenance Tips

A well-maintained home not only provides comfort and safety but also saves you money over time. From preventing costly repairs to improving efficiency, regular upkeep is one of the best investments you can make as a homeowner. At Kelley & Dawson, we’ve spent nearly 60 years helping Wichita-area families keep their heating and cooling systems in top condition. Along the way, we’ve learned that small, consistent habits add up to big savings and peace of mind. Here are our top five home maintenance tips to keep your house running smoothly year-round.

Prioritize HVAC Maintenance

Your heating and cooling system is one of the most important (and expensive) components in your home. Without regular attention, it can lose efficiency, drive up energy bills, and break down when you need it most.

Professional HVAC maintenance typically includes:

• Cleaning coils, burners, and key components
  
  
• Replacing or cleaning air filters
  
  
• Inspecting electrical connections and motors
  
  
• Checking refrigerant levels and system performance
  
  
• Testing safety controls
  
  

By scheduling maintenance in the spring and fall, you’ll not only improve energy efficiency but also extend the life of your system. Plus, many manufacturer warranties require annual service to stay valid.

 Pro Tip: Call Kelley & Dawson at (316) 263-7201 to schedule your seasonal tune-ups and keep your system running reliably.

Change Air Filters Regularly

Air filters play a bigger role in your home than you might think. They keep dust, allergens, and debris out of your HVAC system and indoor air. When filters become clogged, airflow is restricted, making your system work harder.

• Replace filters every 1–3 months, depending on usage and household needs.
  
  
• Homes with pets or allergy-sensitive family members may require more frequent changes.
  
  
• Use the correct size and rating for your system to maximize performance.
  
  

A $10 filter change can prevent hundreds of dollars in repairs while also improving your home’s air quality.

Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation

Even the most efficient HVAC system can’t keep your home comfortable if air is escaping. Drafts around windows, doors, and ductwork force your heating and cooling equipment to run longer than necessary.

Steps you can take:

• Apply weatherstripping or caulk around leaky doors and windows.
  
  
• Check ductwork for loose connections and seal gaps.
  
  
• Inspect attic and wall insulation for sufficient coverage.
  
  
• Install energy-efficient windows or storm doors if needed.
  
  

Sealing leaks and boosting insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 20%.

Keep Gutters and Drains Clean

It’s easy to forget about gutters and downspouts, but they play a critical role in protecting your home. Blocked gutters can lead to water damage, foundation issues, and even pest infestations.

• Clean gutters at least twice a year—in spring and fall.
  
  
• Check downspouts to ensure water flows away from your foundation.
  
  
• Install gutter guards to minimize buildup of leaves and debris.
  
  

By maintaining proper drainage, you’ll avoid costly water-related repairs.

Test Safety Devices Regularly

Your home’s safety systems are just as important as its comfort systems. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors protect your family from serious hazards, but they only work if they’re in good condition.

• Test alarms once a month.
  
  
• Replace batteries every 6–12 months.
  
  
• Replace entire units every 7–10 years.
  
  
• Place detectors near bedrooms and living spaces for maximum protection.
  
  

For homes with gas furnaces, carbon monoxide detectors are especially important. Kelley & Dawson’s fall maintenance checks always include safety inspections, but monthly homeowner testing is a must.

Bonus: Adopt a Seasonal Home Checklist

Each season brings its own set of maintenance needs. By following a simple checklist—like inspecting your AC in spring, sealing drafts in fall, and protecting pipes in winter—you’ll stay ahead of problems before they grow. (See our Seasonal Home Prep Checklist for a detailed guide.)

FAQs About Home Maintenance

1. How often should HVAC systems be serviced?
At least once a year, though twice yearly (spring and fall) is recommended for best results.

2. What’s the most common maintenance task homeowners forget?
Changing air filters. This simple step makes the biggest difference in efficiency and air quality.

3. How do I know if my insulation is sufficient?
If you notice uneven temperatures or rising utility bills, you may need an insulation inspection.

4. Are DIY maintenance tasks enough?
Basic tasks like changing filters and sealing leaks are important, but professional inspections catch issues homeowners can’t see.

5. Why work with Kelley & Dawson?
With nearly six decades serving Wichita, we offer unmatched expertise, Trane-certified service, and a commitment to keeping homes safe and efficient.

Trust Kelley & Dawson With Your Home Comfort

A proactive approach to home maintenance saves money, improves comfort, and provides peace of mind. At Kelley & Dawson, we’re proud to be Wichita’s trusted HVAC experts, offering reliable service and honest advice.

Call (316) 263-7201 today to schedule your HVAC maintenance or ask about ways to make your home more energy efficient. We’re here to help you protect your biggest investment—your home.