Inexpensive Home Maintenance Can Prevent Big Expenses in the Future

For a few hours of time and a small investment, you can do a lot to protect your property. Even renters can ensure comfortable surroundings with some of these tips:

Get energy efficient. If you have not yet installed a programable thermostat, now is the time to do so. You can reduce your cooling costs by 10 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Thermostats cost between $40 and $70.

Seal around the tub and shower. Cracked or poorly sealed calking around tubs, showers and sinks can lead to water damage to floors, walls and the ceilings below, say experts writing in Money magazine. When you see cracks or gaps, buy a $5 tube of caulking and reapply.

Prevent fires. Check your fire extinquishers to see if they are still charged. If you need a new one, buy an extinquisher that works on both kitchen and electrical fires. The National Fire Protection Agency recommends one that is labeled ABC. Cost is about $40.

Prevent Shocks. Electrical outlets near water in the kitchen and bathroom should have ground fault circuit interrupters that protect from a shock. They have "test" and "reset" buttons. If you need one, the GFCI costs about $10, but you should hire an electricial to install it.

Service the garage door. Spray penetrating oil such as WD-40 into the hinges and rollers so the door will open and close more easily. Test the safety reverse mechanism by placing an object in the door's path to see if it stops. WC-40 costs about $7.

This information is courtesy of Standard Mutual Insurance Company. These tips are small in cost, large in safety.

Be safe and keep watching this blog for additional tips and useful information.

Contact Mars Insurance to see how we may better serve you or visit us on the web at www.marsinsurance.com.