Every homeowner knows the basic chores: mow the lawn, change the air filter, and clean the gutters.

But beyond these routine responsibilities, there are plenty of smaller ones that could slip through the cracks—and, while they may not seem urgent, overlooking them can lead to costly repairs and bigger headaches down the road.

As we head into the colder months, now is the perfect time to tackle those less obvious tasks and give your home the care it needs. Here are some of the most overlooked home maintenance chores and why they deserve a spot on your to-do list

Cleaning the dryer vent

Emptying the lint trap after each load is important, but lint also builds up inside the dryer vent that leads outside your home. Over time, this buildup can restrict airflow, reduce your dryer’s efficiency, and even create a fire hazard. According to the US Fire Administration, thousands of house fires each year are linked to dryers. Taking the time to clean your dryer vent annually helps your appliance run more efficiently and, more importantly, keeps your home safer. You can purchase vent-cleaning kits at most hardware stores or hire a professional if the vent is long or difficult to access.

Sealing grout and tile

Bathrooms and kitchens see daily use, but many homeowners forget that grout isn’t actually waterproof. Without proper sealing, water can seep into cracks, leading to stains, mold growth, and damage beneath the tile. Applying a grout sealer every year or two creates a protective barrier that keeps moisture out and extends the life of your tile surfaces. It’s a simple task that only takes a few hours but can save you from costly repairs down the line.

Checking attic insulation

Heat rises, which means your attic plays a major role in your home’s energy efficiency. If insulation is thin, uneven, or missing altogether, warm air can escape during winter and drive up your heating bills. Poor insulation can also cause uneven temperatures in your home and strain your HVAC system. Take a quick look in your attic to see if the insulation is level with or above the floor joists. If it looks sparse, consider adding more to improve efficiency. This is an upgrade that pays for itself over time through lower utility costs and a more comfortable home.

Flushing the water heater

Water heaters quietly do their job year after year, but sediment naturally builds up inside the tank over time. This sediment can reduce efficiency, shorten the appliance’s lifespan, and even cause rust-colored water. Flushing the water heater once a year helps clear out sediment and keeps the unit working at peak performance. While it may sound intimidating, most water heaters include instructions for draining the tank, or you can schedule a plumber to handle it as part of routine maintenance.

Inspecting weatherstripping and seals

Drafty doors and windows can make your home less comfortable while also wasting energy and increasing heating costs. Worn or cracked weatherstripping is a common culprit, yet it’s often overlooked during seasonal upkeep. Run your hand around doors and windows to check for cold air leaks. Replacing weatherstripping or adding caulk where needed are inexpensive tasks that can significantly improve comfort while lowering energy bills.

Testing safety devices

Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are easy to forget until you need them. Likewise, failing batteries or expired extinguishers can put your family at risk in an emergency. Test all alarms monthly, replace batteries at least once a year, and check the expiration dates on fire extinguishers. These small checks take only a few minutes but provide peace of mind that your home is better protected.

Home maintenance is about more than appearances—it’s also about preventing small issues from snowballing into costly repairs. By giving attention to overlooked tasks, you can keep your home safe, efficient, and comfortable all year long. These details make a big difference whether you’re planning to stay for years or preparing to sell. After all, a well-maintained home saves you money while signaling to future buyers that the property has been cared for, making it even more appealing when it’s time to list.