Sometimes something is repeated so often it is accepted to be true without verification. That’s why conventional wisdom – a generally accepted theory or belief – can be very wrong.

A home is your clients’ sanctuary and taking care of a home is essential to its future value and livability. Most of the things a homeowner needs to do to properly maintain their home are obvious. Yet there are "myths" about owning and taking care of a home that need to be debunked.

When it comes to making sure your clients keep their homes in great shape, help them avoid being misled by one of these top 4 home maintenance myths:

Myth 1 – Gutters only need to be cleaned once a year.

A commonly held belief is that gutters only need to be cleaned late in the fall. After all, if leaves cover the roof, they likely will fill your gutters. However, experienced homeowners know that leaves are not the only culprit that can clog gutters. Other debris can accumulate through all seasons.

Why is it essential to keep gutters clear? Gutter debris can be a home for insects and lead to an infestation. It's also easier for mold to accumulate. And if there's a big downpour, congested gutters can overflow, which could mean a messy yard and dirty home exterior.

Myth 2 – It is best to use more pressure when pressure washing.

Using a power washer to clean up a home’s siding that’s collected dirt and grime is a great way to make a home look like a new coat of paint. Plus, the cost of a good power washer has fallen over the last few years. In addition, electric-powered ones are lighter and easier to move and manage.

But if you are not used to using a power washer, you might be under the impression that the more pressure, the better the wash. However, one of the biggest mistakes in utilizing a power washer is improperly attaching a nozzle that emits too much pressure. The wrong nozzle can peel away paint or leave a permanent mark. Too much water pressure can damage a home’s siding, leaving marks or indentations. Finally, you can have the correct nozzle on a pressure washer, but if you hold it too close to the surface you are cleaning, you could create streaks that are difficult or impossible to remove.

Myth 3 – A washing machine cleans itself.

Does your washing machine smell? Take a whiff. Mold can hide, especially in the crevices in the seals of front-loading machines. It might seem logical that a washing machine cleans itself, but that's not the case. A machine does a great job cleaning clothes, but mold and mildew can quickly accumulate during any season.

The bad news is that machines can accumulate dirt, bacteria and fungus if not well maintained. The good news is cleaning a washing machine doesn’t have to be a major chore. If the washer typically uses cold water for washing, now is an excellent time to let hot water run through it – and be sure to add bleach during this empty wash cycle.

Finally, if the washing machine is front loading, leave the door fully open after every wash. Closing the door between loads can significantly increase mold accumulation in the seal.

Myth 4: Water heaters don’t need any maintenance.

Most homeowners think that one of their home’s most essential systems – its water heater ¬– is "maintenance free." But it needs a little love each year to keep it healthy.

Water heaters collect sediment. If it’s not drained regularly, that sediment can build on the bottom of the tank. For gas-powered water heaters, this can create hot spots that can damage the tank permanently. For electric water heaters, it can result in the failure of the lower heating element.

Eventually, the water heater will likely leak – and stop working – and need to be replaced. The best way to extend the average life of a water heater is by draining it annually. Plus, a cleaner water heater could lower your energy bills.

So, don't let your clients fall for these home maintenance myths. Also, show them the value and actual benefits of keeping a home in great shape by recommending a Cinch home warranty.