How to get your home in shape

Angie’s List has the repairs and improvements that should be a top priority for homeowners.

One of the first things to check for is water leaks. A leak could waste 11,000 gallons of water a year, but by fixing it, you could save 10% on your water bill.

Get a home energy audit to improve energy efficiency. An auditor will find poorly insulated areas in your home so you can fix them.

You should also drain your water heater every three months. Sediment can build up in the heater, which reduces its efficiency as much as 50%.

The water will be very hot, so make sure you turn down the temperature an hour before draining.

Doing some regular maintenance on and around your home will keep you from having costly repairs down the road.