As the year 2023 ends, it’s a common practice to conduct a general cleaning. May it be your property, just renting a place, or even a condo in Philippines, keeping your space in top shape is always a priority.
Now, how can you be so sure that you never miss a single space to clean? Worry not because we will give you some of the most recommended expert tips that you can apply in your home.
Ace This Monthly Cleaning Routine
Always remember that consistency is the key. But, you don’t have to do this cleaning routine every day. You just have to dedicate one day each month to these five tasks to ensure your condo home stays in top shape. Plus, you can avoid the hassle of dealing with bigger issues later, especially if you want to get the best value for money for selling them in the future.
Check out these practical tips to ace your monthly cleaning routine.
Check and replace air filters.
Dirty air filters in appliances like furnaces, range hoods, air purifiers, and air conditioning system restrict airflow, reducing efficiency and compromising both air quality and appliance performance.
All you need to do is locate the specific filter for each appliance (usually easily accessible) and check for dust buildup. Replace them if visibly dirty or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also choose high-quality filters and consider upgrading to HEPA filters for better air filtration, especially if anyone in your household has allergies or respiratory issues.
Tame the drains.
Grease, hair, and other debris can build up in drains, leading to clogs and unpleasant odors. But, regular cleaning can prevent these issues and keep water flowing freely.
What you can do is pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and dissolve any clogs. Then, flush with hot water to clear the residue. Make sure to repeat this process for more stubborn clogs, or try a specialized drain snake tool if necessary. Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes.
Defrost with diligence.
You must also note that frost buildup in freezers reduces storage space and makes the appliance work harder, increasing energy consumption. Regular defrosting keeps things efficient and maximizes space.
To get started, unplug the freezer and let it thaw completely. Place towels or trays underneath to catch the melting ice. Once defrosted, clean the interior with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Keep in mind that modern frost-free freezers handle this automatically, but older models still require manual defrosting. Check your specific appliance manual for recommendations.
Dust like a detective.
Of course, dust isn’t just an eyesore; it can exacerbate allergies and contribute to poor air quality. Thorough dusting keeps your home cleaner and healthier.
Therefore, you must go beyond the usual suspects like surfaces and countertops. Target often-overlooked areas like ceiling fans, light fixtures, behind furniture, and on top of cabinets. Use a microfiber cloth or electrostatic duster for better dust capture. Be sure to dust from top to bottom to avoid re-depositing dust on already cleaned surfaces. Consider scheduling this task right before opening windows to clear the dust-laden air outside.
All Year-round Comprehensive Home Maintenance Checklist
Fortunately, you don’t have to do a lot of seasonal home maintenance because we only have two (2) seasons in the Philippines. Besides a monthly routine, you must also conduct yearly household maintenance to ensure your condo unit stays in excellent condition year-round.
Here are some specific tips to add to your annual maintenance tasks for keeping your condo investment in top shape.
Dry Season (November to April)
During the dry season, dust and allergens can easily enter your unit through cracks and gaps around windows and doors. So, seal any leaks with weatherstripping or caulk to improve air quality and energy efficiency.
In addition, you must also need to clean and maintain your home appliances. With increased use of air conditioning unit and fans during the dry season, schedule regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent breakdowns. You also need to change air filters frequently and clean vents to ensure optimal performance. You must also check if garage door openers, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly since the dry season is also prone to fire disasters.
During the dry season, direct sunlight can also fade furniture and damage flooring. Hence, you must utilize curtains or blinds to protect your belongings from harsh UV rays. You can also consider installing window films for added protection.
Lastly, be mindful of your water usage although water shortages are less common during the dry season. Take shorter showers, fix leaky faucets promptly, and consider using water-saving appliances.
Rainy Season (May to October)
Statistically, the Philippines has an average of 20 typhoons in a year, and 5 of which are destructive, bringing heavy rains and floods, especially during the rainy season.
Heavy rains can lead to roof leaks or water infiltration around windows and doors. Clogged gutters and downspouts can also cause water to overflow and damage your unit or the building exterior. Therefore, it is essential to check for any signs of damage before the rainy season begins and report them to the building management immediately.
You must also keep in mind that mosquitoes thrive in humid conditions. So, eliminate potential breeding grounds by emptying standing water in flower pots, trays, and other containers. Consider also using mosquito nets and repellents for added protection.
Also, high humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth, especially in areas like the laundry room, bathrooms and kitchens. Regularly clean and ventilate these areas to prevent mold growth and maintain good indoor air quality. Check your heating system as well.
While it is true that maintaining a condo unit is different from a single attached property, having a regular maintenance routine and addressing potential issues promptly can help you prevent major problems and costly repairs in the long run.
But the good news is that investing in a condo for sale in Philippines offers fewer home maintenance tasks because of shared responsibilities and resources. Regardless if it is an value-priced condominium unit or a luxury one, they have building management to handle various tasks. This includes plumbing and roof repairs, irrigation system and electrical issues, safety and security, and even appliance fixes.
So if this suits your individual needs and preferences, get yourself a condo for sale and consider Asterra, a newly developed condominium complex to rise across different parts of the Philippines. For more info, contact our accredited sellers near you or leave a message in our chat box below.