Save Money by Maintaining your Home

 

Home Maintenance Checklist
As Needed:

• Close fireplace damper when not in use
• Fix leaky faucets
• Unclog slow-running drains

Monthly:

• Inspect and test smoke and fire alarms
• Inspect and replace filters as necessary (air conditioner, furnace, pool and so on)
• Clean vacuum grill and inside compressor unit of central air conditioner, when in use
• Walk around the house exterior to check general condition

Spring:

• Replace smoke and fire alarm batteries (at least twice per year)
• Cut back any trees or shrubs touching the exterior (at least twice per year)
• Inspect and touch up exterior paint
• Inspect foundation for water penetration, settlement, and cracks
• Inspect or treat exterior wood for splintering, decay, and inspect damage
• Inspect window insulation and remove storm windows
• Clean exterior or upper-story windows (twice per year)
• Install window screens, repairing as needed
• Clean gutters and inspect downspouts (twice per year)
• Inspect roof for warping, aging, moss, and cracking
• Perform seasonal pest control (quarterly)

Summer:

• Inspect exposed plumbing areas for dampness (twice per year)
• Fox loose or cracked caulking around tiles, sinks, tubs, showers, toilets and counters
• Inspect appliance hoses and ventilation according to owner's manuals
• Power wash, repair,refinish, and seal decks, reset any protruding nails
• Clean and lubricate sliding-glass-door tracks and window tracks
• Lubricate door hinges and locks
• Oil garage door(s)
• Patch driveway and other concrete, or treat asphalt
• Perform seasonal pest control (quarterly)

Fall:

• Replace smoke and fire alarm batteries (at least twice per year)
• Inspect and clean fireplace and chimney
• Service furnace or other heating system
• Clean and adjust humidifier on furnace
• Clean/vacuum heating ducts, grills and registers
• Clean upper story windows (twice per year)
• Inspect window screens and insulation, and install storm windows
• Inspect weather-stripping around doors and replace as needed.
• Cut back any trees or shrubs touching the roof or exterior (twice per year)
• Clean gutters and inspect downspouts (twice per year)
• Trim, cover, or bring in outdoor plants as needed
• Perform seasonal pest control (quarterly)

Winter:

• Recharge fire extinguishers
• Wax and buff wood floors
• Professionally clean curtains and drapes
• Inspect and touch up interior paint
• Inspect exposed plumbing areas for dampness (twice per year)
• Perform seasonal pest control (quarterly)
• Test for carbon monoxide