By Pat Setter

The San Diego Union-Tribune

We asked Lucinda Hoe, field services director of the West region for Associa OnCall, for some tips to keep a home as functional as possible. The company offers maintenance services for homeowner associations.

“These are things that should be done on an annual basis,” Hoe said. “Many of these items will probably take you five to 30 minutes and can avoid costly repairs.”

Here are a few tasks that will keep your home in tip-top shape:

1. Inspect windows and doors, both inside and outside.

2. Clean or replace filters in your heating system. If you have a gas heater, be sure to inspect the pilot light to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

3. Inspect, clean and repair fireplace elements, including the chimney and flue, especially for wood-burning fireplaces.

4. Change the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

5. Drain and flush particulates and sediment from water heaters. Sediment builds up and reduces heating efficiency.

6. Trim trees away from the house. Remove all dead and broken branches.

7. Check vents to ensure that screens are intact to keep rodents and other pests out.

8. Clean and remove debris from rain gutters and downspouts to ensure proper flow and drainage.

9. Inspect painted exterior areas. Any chipped or bare areas should be painted as soon as possible.

10. Inspect your roof or hire a professional to ensure tiles, shingles and flashing are in good shape.