5 Home Maintenance Tasks That Waste Your Money
Nest DC
If you own a home (or a rental property), the maintenance to-do list can feel endless. And while some jobs really are essential, others are more “nice to have” than “must do.” Knowing the difference can save you time, stress, and serious money.
We asked our in-house Nest maintenance team what they see most often: the home maintenance myths that get pitched as non-negotiable but usually aren’t. Their advice? Every home is different, but in general, these aren’t worth the hype.
Duct cleaning
Duct cleaning is one of those services that sounds responsible. Clean ducts = clean air, right? In reality, your HVAC filter does the bulk of that work. Unless you’ve just finished a renovation that left dust everywhere, or you’ve had a pest problem inside your vents, duct cleaning is rarely necessary.
Better move:
Stay on top of HVAC filter changes. It’s cheaper, easier, and actually improves efficiency.
Annual carpet shampooing
Carpet cleaning companies love to pitch yearly shampooing as “essential.” But unless you’re dealing with a major stain or heavy wear from kids or pets, you don’t need it that often. Over-cleaning can even break fibers down faster.
Better move: Invest in good entry mats and consistent vacuuming. Spot clean as needed and save the big cleanings for every few years.
EPA’s guide to healthy cleaning practices is a great reference.
Yearly power washing
We get it: blasting grime is satisfying. But annual power washing can actually do more harm than good, loosening mortar, stripping paint, or wearing down siding. Unless you see mildew, moss, or heavy dirt, you can wait.
Better move:
Focus on preventative steps like clearing gutters and trimming back plants near your home. Those efforts protect your exterior more than a yearly blast.
Lifetime gutter guards
They sound like a dream, but our team has seen plenty of pricey systems fail after a season or two. Debris still collects and clogs, just in trickier-to-reach spots.
Better move:
Routine cleanings in spring and fall are simple, reliable, and cost far less.
Quarterly pest control contracts
For most DC homes, quarterly spraying is overkill. Unless you have a chronic pest issue, preventative steps go further: sealing cracks, storing food properly, and addressing issues when they appear.
Better move: Call for targeted treatments as needed or consider seasonal service. You’ll save money and reduce unnecessary chemical exposure.
The takeaway
Some maintenance is essential. Some is nice-to-have. And some are just unnecessary home maintenance costs that don’t protect your property. Knowing what to skip helps you spend wisely and focus on what really matters.
That’s exactly why we created Nest’s
WellNest Preventative Maintenance Program. Our clients get proactive, expert care that keeps homes in top shape, saves money long term, and makes for happier residents. No wasted dollars, no skipped essentials... just the right maintenance, done right.
