It is important to keep certain household items up-to-date. Even though they may not be officially broken, they may not be functioning properly which can put your home at risk. Updating certain important household items can keep your family and your home safe, healthy, and save you money. Read on to learn more about when you should replace these important household items.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are vital in keeping your family and home safe in the event of an emergency. These detectors have the potential to increase your survival chances by 50% but only when they are working! It’s important to regularly check your detectors’ batteries to ensure they are not dead. You should replace your detectors at most every 10 years for smoke detectors and 7 years for carbon monoxide detectors. Connect with a pro to ensure your systems are in working order and update them if not.
Fire Extinguisher
Every home should have a fire extinguisher, and if yours doesn’t, think about purchasing one ASAP. Fire extinguishers have the ability to put out small fires that could possibly lead to larger house fires. Rechargeable fire extinguishers can last up to 6 years, while disposable ones can last up to 12 years. However, it’s always important to check their status regularly to ensure that pressure gauges are in a good range and that they are charged and ready to go in case of an emergency.
First Aid Kit
First aid kits are great to have handy in the event of an emergency. Rather than running around your home trying to locate bandaids and other items, a first aid kit houses everything in one spot. You never know when you’re going to need to use your first aid kit, but when you need it, you’ll want everything inside to be up-to-date and ready to use. You should check your first aid kit at least once a year to get rid of and replace any expired items, as well as top up any other items, such as bandages and gauze.
Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Washing Machine and Dryer
With great care, appliances have the ability to last up to 15 years, sometimes even longer. Within those 15 years, you may have had to replace and repair some parts, but the appliance still works. Even though the machine may appear to be getting the job done, it may not be functioning to its full capacity. This can result in losing money through utility bills, as older machines are often over-run, wasting energy to get the job done. New models with advanced technology are able to complete the same job using way less energy. So even though you may not think your machine is broken, it’s best to replace these household items every 10-15 years.
Water Filters
Whether you use a pitcher with a built-in filter or your fridge has a filtration system, it’s important to replace water filters regularly. Each system and filter is different, so following the product’s guidelines on when and how often to replace the filters. Filters only have so much use in them. If you choose to neglect them, they will no longer function properly. This will leave you with unfiltered water that can include bacteria and minerals that you don’t know you are consuming.
Vacuum Filters
Many homeowners are unaware that they should be cleaning and/or replacing their vacuum filter. Of course, you must empty out the dust cup once it becomes full, but the filter should also be cleaned or replaced every 3-6 months. Without doing so, your vacuum can actually begin to spread dust and other particles back into the air.
It can be hard to remember when you last replaced a household item, but it’s important to try. Even though some of these items are rarely used, you’ll want to have them ready when the time comes. On the other hand, some of these items you use daily. Without keeping them up-to-date they may not be functioning to their full capacity, resulting in lost money and dirty homes. Make an effort to replace these household items up-to-date so you can enjoy your home more.
