It always seems that the washing machine breaks down the week after the sprinkler system needed repairs; or right after you receive your tax refund. Money goes in and just goes back out again.

The only things we can control of course are the things we can. Staying ahead of the maintenance cycle (and budgeting appropriately!) is our best defense as homeowners so minor repairs don’t become major ones.

I liked this Smart Budgeting Checklist infographic posted by Home Advisor. It’s not only a reminder of what to do when, but helps you to anticipate and plan for the costs. Handy for those first time home buyers and for those of us who think if we ignore that dripping sound, it will just go away! Happy HVAC Maintenance!