Maintaining your home involves performing ongoing repairs. Some issues that crop up are minor, while others are significant repairs that can be time-consuming and expensive.
While the average homeowner in the United States spends over $3,100 a year on household maintenance, this amount doesn’t include unexpected repair costs. Repairs can cost tens of thousands, but it’s possible to address some household issues in different ways. Let’s examine some of the most expensive and most affordable ways to address household repairs.
HVAC System Repairs
There are several reasons you should be making sure your HVAC system is working properly. Your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system affects your indoor air quality and the temperature inside your home. When your HVAC system isn’t working correctly, it may run more often to adjust the air temperature, causing your energy bills to rise. You could spend more operating a faulty HVAC unit than you’d spend on repairs.
Investing in biannual maintenance can prevent your system from breaking down. Routine maintenance includes having your certified HVAC technician replace the air filter, clean the condenser coils, inspect the HVAC unit, and clean and inspect your ducts. Replacing a dirty filter makes it easier for the HVAC system to do its job. Cleaning ductwork removes obstructions blocking airflow and eliminates toxins from your air. Whether you live in Australia or Arizona, running an energy-efficient HVAC system that effectively purifies your air is crucial for your financial and physical health.
The average cost of replacing your HVAC unit in the United States is between $15 and $18 per square foot. Depending on your home’s size, repairing your system could cost between $7,000 and $10,000. This is a considerable expense; however, if your HVAC system’s older and needs frequent repairs, installing a new system may be more cost-effective. HomeGuide reports the average homeowner in Pennsylvania spends between $75 and $150 per hour on HVAC repairs. A quick repair could cost less than $100, while complex repairs that take five hours could cost $700 or more.
Roofing Repairs
Roof repairs have multiple causes. Shingles could be missing after a windstorm. Over time, roofing materials break down, enabling water to seep through your roof into your attic. You might be able to address minor storm damage by patching your roof. The cost of repairs will vary based on the extent of the damage and the types of materials chosen.
You may opt to have residential and commercial roofing experts replace your roof. Suppose you have an old roof in disrepair. Patching parts of the roof as needed won’t be as cost-effective as replacing the entire roof. You can upgrade materials to protect your building from the elements. Expert with years of experience can remove existing roofing materials and install a new roof designed to protect structures from the elements.
Whether you live on Australia’s Gold Coast or the Florida Panhandle, you can benefit from installing insulation in your attic. Insulation helps maintain your home’s air temperature, reducing the demand for your heating and cooling systems. You can reduce your utility bills by over 40 percent by adding insulation. Insulating your attic also helps prevent damage to your home because it keeps water vapor out, preventing moisture buildup inside your house.
Plumbing Repairs
Plumbing issues range from clogged pipes to leaks to burst pipes. Plumbing repair costs vary based on the nature of the repairs required. HomeGuide indicates the average hourly rate for plumbing repairs is between $45 and $150 per hour in Pennsylvania. Complex repairs will take longer, increasing costs.
Your repair costs will also depend on the materials. Suppose you have a clogged drain. A plumber may be able to remove the obstruction with their tools. However, if it turns out the pipe’s obstructed because it collapsed, you may need to pay for a new pipe to be installed.
Repair costs vary based on the type of repairs required. Sometimes, you may be able to repair your HVAC system, roof, or pipes for less than $1,000. However, replacing your HVAC unit, roof, or pipes could cost thousands.
