Maintaining Your Major Home Systems

Depending on the age of your home and its systems, you can anticipate what to budget for repairs and replacement. Abodio is here to educate you and help you extend the value of your most important investment.   

1. Electrical

Lifespan: 25-40 years for panels; 50-70 years for wiring

Warning signs: Flickering lights, frequent breaker trips, or an outdated panel (especially under 100 amps) might warrant an upgrade

Replacement Cost: $2,000–$4,500, depending on amperage upgrade and complexity; older homes needing rewiring may cost $8,000-$15,000 for full panel replacement and rewiring

Tips: Have a licensed electrician perform a safety inspection every 5–10 years to spot overloaded circuits or aging components early. Map your electrical panel and distribute high-draw appliances across different circuits to prevent overheating that degrades wiring over time.

2. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning)

Lifespan: 15–25 years (furnace: 15–20; air conditioner: 10–15)

Warning Signs: Inconsistent temps, rising energy bills, odd noises, frequent repairs

Replacement Cost: $5,000–$12,000 (full system)

Tips: Change filters regularly, schedule annual tune-ups, clean vents, and seal ducts. Install a smart thermostat for efficiency.

3. Foundation & Structural

Lifespan: 100+ years if maintained

Warning Signs: Cracks in walls/floors, doors that stick, sloped floors

Repair Cost: $2,000–$15,000+

Tips: Keep gutters clear, grade soil away from the foundation, address leaks quickly, and inspect annually for settling or shifting.

4. Insulation & Air Sealing

Lifespan: 20–80 years (depends on material and moisture exposure)

Warning Signs: Drafts, high energy bills, uneven temps, pest issues

Replacement Cost: $2,000–$7,000 (whole home)

Tips: Seal attic and basement air leaks, check insulation R-values, add weather stripping, and schedule an energy audit for targeted upgrades.

5. Plumbing 

Lifespan: 40-80 years, depending on piping materials (copper, brass, PVC, etc.)

Warning signs: Noises, rattling, discolored water, low pressure, frequent leaks, or visible corrosion.

Replacement Cost: Full-home: $8,000–$15,000, while smaller fixes range from $150–$5,000

Tips: Schedule annual inspections, insulate pipes, avoid harsh drain cleaners, and flush your water heater yearly. Installing a water softener and monitoring water pressure can also prevent premature wear.

6. Roofing

Lifespan: 20–30 years (asphalt shingles); up to 50+ years (metal, tile, or slate)

Warning signs: Curling shingles, dark streaks, or frequent leaks

Replacement Cost:  $7,000–$22,000. Asphalt shingles, metal, tile, or slate can exceed $20,000.

Tip: Clean gutters twice yearly to prevent water damage. Remove debris regularly to avoid moisture and ice dams that can harm roofing and cause leaks. Inspect for damage after heavy storms.

7. Septic System

Lifespan: 20-40 years

Warning signs: Odors, standing water, gurgling sounds, slow drainage, or backups

Average Replacement Cost: $1,2500-$3,450 (tank); $5,000 – $20,000 (leach field) Tree root removal, sod replacement, aerators, permits, inspections, and labor costs should be factored in

Tips: Schedule regular pumping (every 3-5 years) and inspections, keep the leach field clear of vegetation and vehicles. Conserve and balance water usage. Take extreme care of what goes into the system, including chemicals, grease, and waste.

8. Windows & Doors

Lifespan: 15–30 years

Warning Signs: Drafts, foggy glass, sticking, rising energy costs

Replacement Cost: $500–$1,500 per window; $800–$2,500 per door

Tips: Use caulk/weather stripping, install energy-efficient models, and maintain seals and hardware regularly to prevent early failure.