UPKEEP Blog

How Preventive Maintenance Saves You Money on Home Repairs

Aug 18, 2026 | Comments Off on How Preventive Maintenance Saves You Money on Home Repairs

Owning a home comes with plenty of expenses, but the most frustrating are the unexpected repairs. A leaking water heater, struggling air conditioner, clogged drain, or failing appliance can quickly turn a small maintenance issue into a costly repair or replacement. (St. Louis humidity and extreme weather changes don’t help matters for us homeowners, either!)…

10 Basic Things New Homeowners Should Know

Aug 18, 2026 | Comments Off on 10 Basic Things New Homeowners Should Know

Congratulations on buying your home! Becoming a homeowner means becoming responsible for a lot: home maintenance, repairs, major systems, appliances, and, unfortunately, unexpected expenses. If this is your first home, UPKEEP Home Warranty + Maintenance is here to help! Knowing what to expect can help you protect your investment and avoid costly surprises. Here are 10 simple-but-essential…

Is Your Home Costing You More Than It Should? 8 Signs You’re Losing Money

Jul 20, 2026 | Comments Off on Is Your Home Costing You More Than It Should? 8 Signs You’re Losing Money

Owning a home is already one of life’s biggest investments. But if your home isn’t properly maintained, it could be quietly costing you more money every month than you realize. Many homeowners don’t notice small issues until they become expensive repairs or higher utility bills. Catching these problems early can help you save money, improve your…

What Happens If Your Air Conditioner Stops Working During a Heat Wave?

Jul 16, 2026 | Comments Off on What Happens If Your Air Conditioner Stops Working During a Heat Wave?

There’s never a convenient time for your air conditioner to stop working. But if it happens during a St. Louis summer heat wave, it can quickly turn into an emergency. Indoor temperatures can climb rapidly, making your home uncomfortable and, in some cases, unsafe for children, older adults, and pets. The good news is that…

How to Keep Your Home Cooler Without Overworking Your AC

Jun 26, 2026 | Comments Off on How to Keep Your Home Cooler Without Overworking Your AC

When summer temperatures rise here in Saint Louis, we all rely heavily on our air conditioning systems to stay comfortable. But constantly running your AC on overdrive can lead to higher energy bills, unnecessary wear and tear, and an increased risk of breakdowns during the hottest months of the year. The good news is that…

Common Summer Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them

Jun 22, 2026 | Comments Off on Common Summer Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them

Summer in Saint Louis brings backyard barbecues, vacations, pool days, and extra household activity, but it also brings a surprising number of plumbing problems for homeowners. Increased water usage, heavy storms, extreme heat, and seasonal wear can all put extra stress on your home’s plumbing system during the warmer months. At UPKEEP Home Warranty + Maintenance,…

Are Home Warranties Worth It? 10 Things You Need to Know in 2026

May 26, 2026 | Comments Off on Are Home Warranties Worth It? 10 Things You Need to Know in 2026

Unexpected home repairs are stressful. One day your air conditioner is working perfectly, and the next you’re facing a repair bill for thousands of dollars. That’s why more Saint Louis, Saint Peters, and Saint Charles homeowners are asking the same question in 2026: Are home warranties actually worth it? The answer depends on your home, your budget, and…

Home Warranty vs. Emergency Fund: Which Protects You Better?

May 14, 2026 | Comments Off on Home Warranty vs. Emergency Fund: Which Protects You Better?

When something breaks in your home, the costs can add up fast. A failed air conditioner in the middle of summer, a leaking water heater, or a broken refrigerator can quickly turn into a stressful and expensive situation. That’s why many homeowners ask: Should I rely on an emergency fund, or is a home warranty the…

Spring Home Upgrades That Add Comfort (Without Breaking the Bank)

Apr 28, 2026 | Comments Off on Spring Home Upgrades That Add Comfort (Without Breaking the Bank)

We’ve collected some simple, affordable ideas to refresh your home and enjoy it even more this season. Spring is all about fresh starts! Your home is no exception. As the days get longer and the weather warms up here in Saint Louis, Saint Charles, and Saint Peters, now is the perfect time to make a…

Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Refund on Your Home

Apr 17, 2026 | Comments Off on Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Refund on Your Home

Make the most of your return with upgrades, maintenance, and protection that pays off all year long. Tax season can be stressful, but it has its perks. For many Saint Louis, Saint Peters, and Saint Charles homeowners, a refund can feel like a rare opportunity to make meaningful improvements without dipping into savings. While it’s tempting to…