You might be surprised to learn that certain household items are less durable and permanent than you originally thought. We tend to think our home's windows, the fireplace, and even our furnace are invincible, but they can wear down and become less effective over time, leading to inefficiency, higher bills, and damage. To improve your home's safety and function, it's a good idea to look through this list of household items you need to replace and swap out any out-of-date fixtures and items in your home as necessary.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
We might not think much of our home's smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, but they're invaluable features. They're designed to keep us safe in case the unthinkable happens. A smoke detector will last up to ten years, and a carbon monoxide detector will last up to seven. Having a working smoke detector will increase your house fire survival chances by 50 percent, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Even if you don’t need to replace your detectors, you might want to inspect and replace their batteries on an annual basis.
Fire Extinguisher
Your fire extinguishers have a shelf life. A rechargeable fire extinguisher will last up to six years, and a disposable fire extinguisher will last up to twelve. You should check your fire extinguisher's pressure gauges monthly to ensure they're still charged or full, and recharge or replace them as necessary.
Baseboard Heater Cover
A well-designed and well-maintained baseboard cover can last you a lifetime, but less durable models might wear out sooner. On average, a baseboard cover will last around twenty years. When you're picking out a new cover, you'll want to pick out the right size and make sure to remove and replace the existing cover correctly.
Air Conditioner
Another household item you need to replace is your air conditioner. Your air conditioning unit will start to wear down over time, with the average unit lasting anywhere from eight to ten years. Regular maintenance can help prolong its lifespan, but eventually, you'll need to replace it. If you're experiencing humidity issues, temperature fluctuations, or excessive noise signals, the source could be an air conditioner that's on its last legs.
Windows
Depending on the manufacturer, vinyl windows can last twenty-five years or longer. If you notice minor leaks around the window, you can repair them with caulk or weather-stripping. A rotted frame or broken seal, on the other hand, are signs that you should have your windows replaced.
