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Angie's List: The 7 Jobs You Shouldn't Ignore

"Paying attention to the basics of home care is a lot like brushing your teeth or exercising and eating well, says Angie Hicks, founder of Angie's List. "Taking care of the basics will save you stress, time and money. Neglecting them won't just cost you more down the road, it could actually put your family in danger."

Angie's 7 Signs Your House Needs Professional Care

    1. Up on the Roof: A small issue with your roof doesn't mean you need to
       replace the whole thing. But letting the little things go only means
       you're in for big bills later. If you notice loose shingles, have attic
       leaks, suspect chimney issues or see other signs of damage up high, call
       in a reputable roofing, gutter or chimney expert, or a handyman to give
       you great advice about what you need done.
    2. Leaks don't fix themselves: Leaky faucets, running toilets and other
       small plumbing issues will just get worse, so do yourself a favor and get
       those fixed before major damage occurs. If you notice a jump in your
       water bill but haven't increased your usage, you likely have a hidden
       leak, which left undetected could lead to mold, wood rot and severe water
       damage. Don't work with anyone who isn't happy to show you his or her
       plumbing license.
    3. Caulk it up: The caulking around your tub and shower prevents moisture
       penetration, which can lead to mold, tile and wall damage and warped
       cabinetry. Keeping everything watertight will save you a bundle, so be
       sure to repair any caulking failures. But don't stop there. All homes get
       cracks and voids in their outside walls over time. Look closely at where
       two boards come together, because cracks often start there. Also look for
       damage from animals that are looking for a way in. Caulk any cracks you
       see to avoid water penetration, subsequent wood rot and to keep the
       critters out.
    4. Sparks fly: Lights that dim on their own schedule aren't just annoying:
       they're a clear signal that you have an electrical problem. Experts say
       too many homeowners tolerate this situation for too long, which puts
       their homes at risk for electrical fire. Another often tolerated-too-long
       issue is when using one device causes another to switch off because
       you've blown a fuse. This is a sign you have a capacity or circuit box
       issue. Less dangerous but still signal-worthy are springy outlets that
       don't hold plugs. If you have any of these issues, call in a licensed,
       reputable electrician.
    5. Drafty doors and windows: Improperly sealed windows and doors will bring
       cold air inside during the winter and let cooled air out in the summer,
       costing you big bucks on your energy bill. An energy audit can tell you
       where your leaks are and how to seal them.
    6. Filter it out: HVAC experts say 60 percent of their service calls result
       from systems stressed by dirty air filters. Changing air filters
       regularly (every quarter or so; more if you have pets) can save you up to
       $100 each year on your energy bill, and will keep you from needing
       emergency repair. Many highly reputable heating and air conditioning
       companies offer maintenance plans that include an annual inspection.
       Doing this will give you an early alert to any issues you have with your
       entire HVAC system so you can stave off breakdowns.
    7. Pump it up: Take a look at your sump pump from time to time. If it's in
       good shape and its batteries are good, it could save you thousands of
       dollars in flood damage. But you don't want to find out it needs repairs
       after the water starts rising. Get an annual inspection and check the
       batteries at least quarterly.

Angie's List collects consumer reviews and helps connect consumers with the best local service providers in areas from home improvement to health care. More than 1 million households across the U.S. and Canada subscribe to and rely on Angie's List to help them make the best hiring decisions in more than 550 service categories. Members get unlimited access to local ratings via Internet or phone, exclusive discounts, the Angie's List Magazine and help from the Angie's List complaint resolution service. For the latest consumer news, visit the Angie's List news center.

CONTACT: Cheryl Reed of Angie's List, +1-317-396-9134, cherylr@angieslist.com

SOURCE Angie's List