Top 28 Slang For Maintenance – Meaning & Usage

Maintenance may not be the most glamorous topic, but it’s an essential part of keeping things running smoothly. From fixing leaky faucets to changing the oil in your car, we all encounter maintenance tasks in our daily lives. If you’ve ever felt lost in a sea of technical terms and jargon, fear not! We’ve got you covered with a list of the top slang for maintenance that will have you feeling like a pro in no time. So buckle up and get ready to level up your maintenance game!

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1. Upkeep

The act of maintaining or preserving something in good condition. “Upkeep” refers to the regular tasks and efforts required to keep something functioning properly.

For example, a homeowner might say, “I need to do some upkeep on my garden this weekend.”
A car owner might schedule regular upkeep, such as oil changes and tire rotations.
A building manager might discuss the upkeep of a commercial property, including cleaning, repairs, and landscaping.

2. Tune-up

A tune-up is a form of maintenance that involves making adjustments and conducting inspections to ensure optimal performance. It is often performed on vehicles or mechanical equipment.

For instance, a mechanic might say, “Your car could use a tune-up to improve fuel efficiency.”
A cyclist might take their bike to a shop for a tune-up before a big race.
A computer technician might perform a tune-up on a slow computer to optimize its performance.

3. Fixer-upper

A fixer-upper refers to a property or object that requires significant repairs or renovations. It is often used to describe houses or vehicles that need work to be brought up to a desired standard.

For example, a real estate agent might advertise a house as a fixer-upper with potential for improvement.
A homeowner might say, “I bought a fixer-upper and plan to remodel it.”
A car enthusiast might enjoy working on fixer-uppers as a hobby.

4. Patch job

A patch job refers to a temporary fix or repair that is intended to address a problem temporarily. It is often used when a more permanent solution is not immediately available.

For instance, a plumber might say, “I did a patch job on the leaking pipe until I can replace it.”
A homeowner might use a patch job to temporarily fix a hole in the wall.
A cyclist might patch a tire until they can get a new one.

5. Spruce up

To spruce up means to make something look cleaner, more attractive, or more presentable. It often involves making small changes or improvements to enhance the overall appearance.

For example, a homeowner might spruce up their living room by adding new throw pillows and rearranging furniture.
A person might spruce up their outfit with accessories before going out for a special occasion.
A business owner might spruce up their storefront with fresh paint and new signage.

6. Service

This refers to the act of keeping something in good condition or working order. It can involve routine maintenance tasks or repairs.

For example, “I need to service my car before going on a road trip.”
A person might say, “I’m calling a plumber to service my water heater.”
In a discussion about home maintenance, someone might suggest, “Regularly servicing your HVAC system can help prevent breakdowns.”

7. Keep in shape

This phrase is often used to describe the act of maintaining one’s physical fitness or staying in good physical condition.

For instance, “I go to the gym regularly to keep in shape.”
A fitness enthusiast might say, “It’s important to eat healthy and exercise to keep in shape.”
Someone might ask, “What’s your secret for staying in such great shape?”

8. Check-up

This term refers to a thorough examination or assessment of something to ensure it is functioning correctly or in good condition.

For example, “I need to schedule a check-up for my car at the mechanic.”
A person might say, “I’m going to the doctor for my annual check-up.”
In a discussion about home maintenance, someone might mention, “Regular check-ups of your electrical system can help prevent fires.”

9. Revamp

This word means to give something a new and improved version or appearance. It often involves making significant changes or improvements to something that already exists.

For instance, “I’m going to revamp my wardrobe with some new clothes.”
A person might say, “We need to revamp our website to make it more user-friendly.”
In a discussion about home renovations, someone might suggest, “Let’s revamp the kitchen by installing new cabinets and countertops.”

10. Fine-tune

This phrase means to make small adjustments or improvements to something in order to achieve the best possible performance or outcome.

For example, “I need to fine-tune my resume before applying for jobs.”
A musician might say, “I spent hours fine-tuning the sound of my guitar.”
In a discussion about software development, someone might mention, “We’re in the final stages of fine-tuning the app before its release.”

11. Refurbish

To renovate or restore an item or space to its original or improved condition. “Refurbish” often implies making significant changes or improvements.

For example, “I’m going to refurbish my old furniture and give it a fresh new look.”
A person might say, “I found a vintage car that needs some work, but I’m excited to refurbish it.”
In a discussion about home improvement, someone might mention, “Refurbishing a kitchen can be a cost-effective way to update the space.”

12. TLC

To give something special attention and care to ensure its well-being and longevity. “TLC” is often used to describe the extra effort put into maintaining or repairing something.

For instance, “My car is getting old, so I’m giving it some TLC with regular maintenance and detailing.”
A person might say, “My plants need some TLC after being neglected for a few weeks.”
In a discussion about maintaining relationships, someone might advise, “Give your partner some TLC by planning a special date night.”

13. Keep in tip-top shape

To keep something in excellent or optimal condition through regular maintenance and care. “Tip-top shape” refers to the highest level of quality or performance.

For example, “I exercise regularly to keep my body in tip-top shape.”
A person might say, “I follow a strict skincare routine to keep my skin in tip-top shape.”
In a discussion about car maintenance, someone might mention, “Regular oil changes and tune-ups are essential to keep your engine in tip-top shape.”

14. Keep running smoothly

To ensure that something continues to function properly without any issues or interruptions. “Running smoothly” implies that there are no hiccups or problems.

For instance, “Regular maintenance and cleaning help to keep my computer running smoothly.”
A person might say, “I make sure to lubricate the gears of my bike to keep it running smoothly.”
In a discussion about household appliances, someone might advise, “Clean and maintain your washing machine regularly to keep it running smoothly.”

15. Service call

A visit or appointment with a professional technician or service provider to inspect, repair, or maintain a piece of equipment or property. “Service call” often refers to a scheduled visit for maintenance or repairs.

For example, “I had to schedule a service call for my air conditioner because it stopped working.”
A person might say, “The plumber came for a service call to fix a leaky pipe in my bathroom.”
In a discussion about home appliances, someone might mention, “Regular service calls can help prevent major breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your appliances.”

16. Refurb

To renovate or repair something, often to make it look or function like new again. “Refurb” is a shortened form of “refurbish” and is commonly used when referring to electronics or furniture.

For example, “I’m going to refurb my old laptop and sell it.”
A person discussing a recent purchase might say, “I got this TV for a great price because it was refurbished.”
Another might ask, “Do you know any good places to get refurbished smartphones?”

17. Overhaul

To completely renovate or make extensive changes to something in order to improve it. “Overhaul” is often used when referring to large-scale maintenance or repairs, such as for vehicles or machinery.

For instance, “I need to overhaul my car’s engine.”
A person discussing a home renovation might say, “We’re planning to do a complete overhaul of our kitchen.”
Another might comment, “The company decided to overhaul their website to improve user experience.”

18. Touch-up

To make minor repairs or improvements to something, typically to improve its appearance or functionality. “Touch-up” is commonly used when referring to small-scale maintenance tasks or cosmetic adjustments.

For example, “I just need to touch up the paint on this wall.”
A person discussing grooming might say, “I need to touch up my makeup before going out.”
Another might comment, “I’m going to touch up this photo to remove some imperfections.”

19. Care for

To take action to keep something in good condition or working order. “Care for” is a general term used to describe the ongoing maintenance and attention required for the proper functioning of something.

For instance, “You need to care for your car by regularly checking the oil and tire pressure.”
A person discussing houseplants might say, “I love caring for my plants and watching them grow.”
Another might comment, “It’s important to care for your skin by using sunscreen and moisturizer.”

20. Maintain

To preserve or retain the condition or functionality of something over time. “Maintain” is a broad term used to describe the ongoing actions and efforts required to ensure something continues to function properly.

For example, “You need to maintain a regular exercise routine to stay healthy.”
A person discussing a swimming pool might say, “It’s important to maintain the proper chemical balance in the water.”
Another might comment, “Regular oil changes are necessary to maintain the performance of your car.”

21. Repair

This term refers to the act of restoring or fixing something that is broken or damaged. It can be used in various contexts, from repairing a car to fixing a broken appliance.

For example, “I need to repair my bike because the tire is flat.”
A homeowner might say, “I hired a professional to repair my leaking roof.”
In a conversation about technology, someone might ask, “Do you know how to repair a computer that won’t turn on?”

22. Clean up

This phrase means to organize or remove dirt, clutter, or mess from a space. It can be used for cleaning a room, organizing belongings, or even cleaning up after an event.

For instance, “I need to clean up my desk before I can start working.”
After a party, someone might say, “Let’s clean up the living room before our guests arrive.”
A parent might tell their child, “You need to clean up your toys before bedtime.”

23. Fix

To fix something means to repair or restore it to its proper working condition. It is a general term that can be used for various types of repairs, from fixing a broken object to repairing a relationship.

For example, “I need to fix my car’s engine because it won’t start.”
A person might say, “I’m trying to fix my broken phone screen.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “I’m working on fixing my bad habits.”

24. Look after

This phrase means to take responsibility for someone or something and ensure their well-being. It can be used for taking care of a person, a pet, or even an object.

For instance, “I need to look after my younger siblings while my parents are away.”
A pet owner might say, “I hired a pet sitter to look after my dog while I’m on vacation.”
A person might ask their friend, “Can you look after my plants while I’m out of town?”

25. Keep up

To keep up with something means to maintain or sustain it at a certain level. It can be used for various types of maintenance, from keeping up with household chores to maintaining good health.

For example, “I need to keep up with my exercise routine to stay fit.”
A homeowner might say, “I hired a gardener to help me keep up with my lawn maintenance.”
In a conversation about work, someone might say, “It’s important to keep up with industry trends to stay competitive.”

26. Preserve

Preserve refers to the act of keeping something in its original or intended state. It involves taking necessary actions to prevent deterioration or damage.

For example, a museum might preserve a valuable artifact by controlling temperature and humidity.
A person might say, “I want to preserve the memories of my childhood by digitizing old photographs.”
A homeowner might preserve the condition of their hardwood floors by regularly cleaning and waxing them.

27. Keep in good repair

This phrase means to take care of something and ensure it remains in a good or functional state. It implies regular upkeep and addressing any necessary repairs.

For instance, a car owner might say, “I always make sure to keep my car in good repair to avoid any breakdowns.”
A landlord might tell their tenants, “Please keep the apartment in good repair and report any maintenance issues.”
A homeowner might hire a professional to keep their HVAC system in good repair to ensure efficient operation.

28. Watch over

To watch over means to keep a close eye on something or someone in order to protect or care for them. It involves being vigilant and attentive to any potential issues.

For example, a security guard might watch over a building to prevent unauthorized access.
A parent might watch over their child while they play at the park to ensure their safety.
A supervisor might watch over their team to ensure they are meeting their goals and deadlines.