As adults, we’ve been there, experiencing the good and bad days, and going through tough, tiring, and time-consuming moments. 

Perhaps you only do the laundry when you run out of clean clothes, or you use plastic plates and utensils to save time washing dishes (not good for the environment and you). 

However you skimp and save as you can, there are some things you shouldn’t be frugal with, like taking care of your home and keeping it in good condition.

From servicing your air-conditioner to keep the air cool to checking for pests so the bed bugs don’t bite, here are some quick tips on how often you should service your everyday necessities and maintain a safe environment at home. 

Air-Cond Servicing

How often to service your air-cond: Every six months, or at least once a year.

Regular servicing for your air-cond helps address issues early and prevents minor problems from snowballing into major ones. That means fewer breakdowns, less costly repairs, and a longer lifespan for your beloved AC buddy.

Air-cond servicing checklist:

1. Inspect the unit and systems
2. Clean or replace the air filters for better airflow
3. Clean the evaporator coil to remove the buildup of dust and dirt
4. Clean the condenser coil for better heat dissipation
5. Clean the blower fan to improve the airflow
6. Clear the drainage pipe to prevent water leakage
7. Check and clean the drain pan
8. Check the refrigerant levels and top up if needed
9. Inspect for refrigerant leaks
10. Check that the wiring, capacitor, fan motor, and compressor runs smoothly

Pest Control

How often to check for pests: Every three months. For termites, it is recommended to check at least once a year.

From annoying fruit flies to disastrous termites, the list of common household pests is long. Even if your home seems pest-free, it could be hiding in the deepest and darkest corners, so carry out regular inspections to keep your home clean and safe.

Pest control inspection checklist:

1. Identify the types of pests you have seen, heard, or any damages to your home
2. Identify high-risk areas in your home based on its structure and surroundings (common pests for landed properties may differ from a high-rise)
3. Conduct a visual inspection to check for droppings, sheddings, bite marks, etc., and include the dark, damp, and hidden areas in your home
4. Conduct specific pest checks for rodents, termites, cockroaches, ants, mosquitoes, bed bugs, flies, etc.
5. Place traps and monitor any pest activity – if there are signs of an infestation, consult a reputable pest control company

Piping And Plumbing

How often to check your house pipes and plumbing: Once a year. 

By checking your piping and plumbing system every now and then, you can do your part to prevent costly repairs, leaks, and water inefficiency. Even the smallest leak can turn into a big one that will set you back financially, or worse, cause mould to grow.

Piping and plumbing inspection checklist:

1. Turn on all the taps and showers to test the water flow and pressure
2. Check if the water pressure is weak or strong – weak water pressure can be caused by a blockage or leak, while water pressure that is too strong can damage your plumbing
3. Inspect the piping under the sinks for any drips or damp areas
4. Inspect the area around the toilets and taps for leaks at the connections or joints
5. Check the ceilings and walls for water stains or mould, and look out for musty smells
6. Test the drainage of taps, showers, and sinks to ensure water drains quickly
7. Listen for gurgling noises in the drains, as this could mean poor ventilation or a blockage
8. Check the condition of the pipes (rust, corrosion, mineral buildup, old and cracked pipes)
9. Finally, turn off all the taps and showers and check the water meter. If the meter continues running although the water is off, there may be a hidden leak

Electrical Wiring

How often to check your house’s electrical wiring: Every five to ten years. As of 2018, all houses in Malaysia must undergo a mandatory electrical wiring check every ten years.

Regular checks prevent electrical hazards, reduce fire risks, and keep your energy bill low by being energy-efficient. If you encounter issues like frequent power trips, burning smells from sockets, or exposed live wires, get a licensed electrician to inspect your home quickly.

Electricity wiring inspection checklist:

1. Check the condition of the DB box to ensure the breakers are labelled and organised
2. Test the circuit breakers by switching them on and off to see if they work
3. Use a test pen to test if the power outlets and switches work well
4. Look for any burn marks, melted parts, sparks, buzzing sounds, or discolouration that indicate wiring issues or bigger electrical problems
5. Ensure visible wiring and cables are not frayed, cracked, tangled, or overloaded. Where possible, check on the condition of concealed wires in the wall
6. Use surge protectors for electronics that consume great power, and ensure sockets near water sources have waterproof covers

Home Interior

How often to maintain your home interior: For the walls, ceilings, floors, roofs, and paint, check them every two to three years. Besides that, it is highly recommended to take your curtains or blinds down for a wash or change twice a year, or at least once.

Four walls and a roof make a home. Well, not all houses, but you get the gist. Keeping an eye on the condition of your walls, ceilings, and structural elements helps prevent costly repairs and ensure the safety of you and your family.

Home structure inspection checklist:

1. Inspect for cracks, mould, peeling paint, water stains, sagging, or sudden warps, as they mean structural or water damage
2. Tap on the walls and pay attention to any hollow sounds, which could indicate weak plaster or a termite infestation
3. Check the exterior walls and paint for cracks, peeling paint, or algae buildup that may require in-depth cleaning

Spring Clean At Least Once A Year

Even if you have a thousand and one things to do daily, most of these only need to be done once a year (at least). If you have the time to plan your annual year-end getaway, you can spend a little time caring for your living environment. 

Not sure where to find providers for these services? Don’t worry – visit Mudah.my for a list of services available near you! 

From home-related services such as air-cond servicing, cleaning and disinfecting, renovation, and locksmithing, to others you may find handy like pet-sitting and repairing electronics, there’s no excuse to not look after the quality of your life.