Owning a home in Lebanon, OH, means dealing with hot summers, freezing winters, and everything in between. That kind of climate puts stress on a house—inside and out. Yet many homeowners skip basic upkeep until something breaks. At that point, what could’ve been a small fix turns into a big bill.

Here’s the truth: most costly home repairs can be prevented with regular maintenance. That means a few small habits—done consistently—can save you thousands of dollars over time.

This article breaks down some key habits to help you get ahead of expensive problems. They’re all simple, practical, and proven to protect your home and your wallet.

Swap Out HVAC Filters on Time

Your HVAC filter does more than keep dust out of the air. It protects the entire system. When filters get clogged, the airflow drops. The system has to work harder to heat or cool your home, which means more wear and tear.

This extra strain often leads to part failures or full system breakdowns. That’s why it’s smart to change your filter every one to three months, depending on the type of filter and how often your system runs.

Dirty filters can also raise your utility bills. When airflow is blocked, the system runs longer to reach the same temperature. Over the course of a year, that can add up to hundreds of extra dollars.

Many homeowners don’t realize this until it’s too late. That’s why hiring a professional who offers air conditioning repair in Lebanon, OH is important. With regular filter changes, you can avoid that call altogether.

Flush Your Water Heater Once a Year

Sediment buildup is one of the most common reasons water heaters fail early. Minerals from your water supply collect at the bottom of the tank. That layer forces the heater to use more energy and shortens its life.

Draining your water heater once a year clears out the sediment. This makes the system more efficient and reduces your energy bills. All you need is a garden hose and a bucket. Attach the hose to the drain valve and let the water flow into the bucket or outside.

Make sure you shut off the heater and let it cool before starting. If you’re unsure how to do it safely, ask a plumber to show you once—then you’ll know for next time.

Fix Leaky Faucets and Toilets Early

Leaks are more than annoying. They waste water and slowly damage surfaces. A dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons a year. A leaking toilet can waste thousands.

Check your faucets regularly. If you hear dripping or see water collecting at the base, replace the washer or cartridge. For toilets, open the tank and listen. A quiet hissing or running sound often means the flapper is worn.

Most of these parts cost less than $10 and take 15 minutes to install. Fixing small leaks right away saves money and prevents damage to cabinets, floors, and subflooring over time.

Don’t Forget the Dryer Vent and Lint Trap

A clogged dryer vent is more than just a fire risk—it also makes your dryer work harder and run longer. That raises your electricity bill and wears down the machine faster. The good news is that maintenance is simple and only takes a few minutes.

You should clean the lint trap after every load. That alone helps with airflow. But at least once a year, unplug the dryer and clean the vent duct. Disconnect the hose from the back and use a vacuum or vent brush to clear out built-up lint.

Also, go outside and check the exterior vent cover. Make sure it opens freely and isn’t blocked by debris or nesting animals. A clean, well-vented dryer uses less energy and lasts longer.

Make Sure Your Sump Pump Still Works

If you live in a home with a basement, the sump pump is your first line of defense against water damage. But many people don’t think about it until the power goes out or the basement starts to flood.

To test your sump pump, pour water into the pit until the float rises. The pump should turn on and empty the pit quickly. If nothing happens or if the pump runs slowly, it may be time to clean it or replace it.

Also, check the backup power source if you have one. Heavy rain and power outages often go hand in hand, so a battery backup or generator makes a big difference. A quick test can help you avoid thousands of dollars in cleanup costs after a storm.

Scan Your Roof from the Ground

You don’t need to climb a ladder to check if your roof is in trouble. Just walk around your home and look up. Keep an eye out for shingles that are missing, curled, or cracked. Also, look for dark patches, moss, or sagging areas.

Your roof protects everything inside your house. If water starts getting in, repairs get expensive fast. Catching problems early gives you the chance to fix them while they’re still minor.

It’s smart to check your roof at least twice a year, especially after storms. If anything looks off, call a roofing professional for a closer look.

Monitor Your Home’s Water Pressure

Most people never think about their water pressure until something goes wrong. But if the pressure is too high, it puts strain on your pipes, fixtures, and water heater. Over time, that pressure can cause leaks or burst pipes.

You can test your pressure with a simple gauge from a hardware store. Screw it onto a hose bib or outdoor faucet. Ideal water pressure should be between 40 and 60 psi. If it’s higher, you may need to install or adjust a pressure-reducing valve.

Keeping the pressure in check helps protect your plumbing system and can also extend the life of your appliances.

Big repairs often start as small problems. That’s why regular home maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether it’s cleaning a vent, testing a pump, or sealing a window, each of these tasks adds up to real savings over time.

The habits covered in this article don’t require special tools or skills. Just a bit of time, awareness, and the willingness to act early. By building these tasks into your seasonal routine, you’ll reduce stress, cut costs, and avoid those surprise bills that no one wants to deal with.

Take care of your home now, and it’ll take care of you for years to come.