Home Maintenance Checklist for Each Season
Just like cars, your home needs regular care to avoid breakdowns and costly repairs. Following a seasonal maintenance schedule will keep your home in great shape year-round.
Monthly Home Maintenance Checklist
- Test Alarms and Detectors: Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Replace batteries if needed.
- Check and Replace Filters: Inspect furnace, oven, and vent filters for debris. Replace as necessary.
- Check Pipes for Clogs: Run hot water for 30 seconds in sinks and drains, then use a natural drain cleaner.
- Clean Air Vents: Turn off the HVAC system, loosen dust with a brush, and vacuum the vents.
- Check Sump Pump: Test the sump pump to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
- Look for Leaks or Cracks in Faucets and toilets: Inspect faucets, toilets and under sinks for leaks. Touch up grout and caulk if needed.
Biannual Home Maintenance Checklist
- Inspect Attic and Basement: Look for cracks, deteriorating insulation, leaks, or pests.
- Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Clean gutters to prevent water backup and damage to your home.
- Clean Refrigerator Coils: Vacuum the coils on your refrigerator for better efficiency.
Annual Home Maintenance Checklist
- Clean Dryer Vent: Remove lint buildup in the dryer vent to prevent fire hazards.
- Flush Water Heater: Empty and refill the water heater to maintain its efficiency.
- Inspect for Termites: Check for signs of wood damage. Consider professional inspection if unsure.
- Trim Tree Branches: Cut branches near your roof to prevent storm damage.
Here’s your full Annual Home Maintenance List, with each month and the corresponding tasks:January
• Clean or Replace Furnace Filter to ensure efficient airflow and maintain indoor air quality.
• Check and Clean HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) to maintain proper ventilation.
• Inspect Furnace Fan Belt for wear or looseness, and adjust if needed.
• Inspect Water Heater for leaks to prevent water damage.
• Clean Exhaust Fans in bathrooms and kitchens for better ventilation.
• Clean Humidifier and monitor humidity levels for a comfortable indoor environment.
• Remove Snow and Ice from Roof Overhangs and Vents to prevent ice dams.
• Check and Reset GFCI outlets to ensure electrical safety.
• Test Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors to ensure they are working properly.
February
• Check HVAC Outside Unit and remove debris to improve performance.
• Check and Replace Fire Extinguisher if necessary to ensure home safety.
• Wash or Vacuum Window Blinds to remove dust and allergens.
• Clean Dishwasher Drain Bin to prevent clogs and improve performance.
• Clean Vent Hood Filter to maintain kitchen air quality.
• Check Outdoor Railings and Steps to ensure they are safe and ready for spring.
• Inspect Gutters and Downspouts to prepare for spring rain.
March
• Vacuum HVAC Registers to remove dust and debris, improving air circulation.
• Replace Smoke Detector Batteries to maintain safety by updating them as needed.
• Clean Faucet Aerators and Drains to improve water flow and prevent clogs.
• Inspect Window Weather Stripping for damage to maintain energy efficiency.
• Clean Window Screens to enhance indoor air quality and prepare for warmer weather.
• Wash Windows (Inside and Out) to improve natural lighting and views.
• Trim Bushes and Trees to prevent damage to the home and improve curb appeal.
April
• Clear Debris from HVAC Outside Unit to improve system performance and efficiency.
• Apply Wax or Lemon Oil to Cabinets to maintain appearance and protect wood surfaces.
• Inspect Tile Grout and re-caulk as necessary to prevent water damage.
• Inspect Water Heater for leaks and ensure proper operation.
• Check HVAC Drainage Pipes to prevent clogs and water damage.
• Touch Up Exterior Paint to protect surfaces from weather damage.
• Trim Nearby Trees to maintain a safe distance from the roof and walls.
May
• Clean Vent Hood Filter to improve kitchen air quality and ventilation.
• Tighten Cabinet Hinges to ensure proper door alignment and function.
• Inspect Plumbing for Leaks to prevent water damage and conserve water.
• Lubricate Exterior Door Hinges to maintain smooth operation of doors.
• Inspect Roof for Damage to address any issues before they lead to leaks.
• Reverse Ceiling Fan Direction to optimize cooling efficiency for summer.
June
• Clear Debris from HVAC Unit to ensure efficient cooling system operation.
• Clean Garbage Disposal to prevent odors and maintain smooth function.
• Replace HVAC Filter for improved air quality and system efficiency.
• Vacuum HVAC Registers again to keep air flowing freely throughout the home.
• Inspect Septic System to ensure proper function, adding treatments if needed.
• Inspect Exterior Walls for cleanliness or repairs needed to maintain structural integrity.
• Stain or Seal Deck to protect outdoor wood surfaces from weather damage.
July
• Replace Vent Hood Filter to maintain kitchen air quality and ventilation.
• Check Doors and Locks for security, tightening any loose hardware as necessary.
• Inspect Caulking for Cracks around windows and doors for improved insulation.
• Lubricate Window Tracks for smooth operation of windows.
• Clean Outdoor Fireplace or Grill in preparation for summer gatherings.
• Test GFCI Outlets regularly for electrical safety throughout the home.
August
• Clean Garbage Disposal again for hygiene and proper function.
• Remove Debris from HVAC Unit to optimize cooling performance.
• Check Fire Extinguisher to ensure it’s fully charged and accessible when needed.
• Inspect Basement Sump Pump by testing it to avoid flooding during heavy rains.
• Service Heating System early by scheduling repairs or tune-ups in preparation for colder months.
• Vacuum HVAC Registers once more to maintain proper airflow throughout the home.
September
• Replace HVAC Filter to ensure clean air and optimal system performance.
• Winterize Outdoor Lawn Equipment by draining fuel and performing maintenance.
• Inspect Window Weather Stripping for any gaps to improve insulation.
• Clean and Lubricate Window Tracks to maintain smooth operation.
• Clean Faucet Aerators and Drains to remove mineral buildup.
• Clean Gutters from Fall Leaves to prevent blockages and water damage.
October
• Clear Debris from HVAC Unit to prepare for winter use.
• Reseal Tile Grout if needed to prevent moisture damage.
• Inspect Water Heater for efficiency and leaks.
• Clean Vent Hood Filter to maintain proper kitchen ventilation.
• Check Emergency Escape Plan and routes in case of fire or emergency.
• Deep Clean your Home to prepare for holiday gatherings.
November
• Clean or Replace Furnace Filter to ensure proper heating efficiency.
• Clean Vent Hood Filter to maintain kitchen air quality.
• Clean Dishwasher and check the drain to prevent clogs.
• Weatherproof Doors and Windows to keep out cold drafts.
• Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors and replace batteries if necessary.
• Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets to prevent freezing.
• Prepare for Freezes by inspecting exterior water spigots and insulating pipes.
December
• Clear Debris from HVAC Unit to maintain heating efficiency.
• Clean Garbage Disposal to prevent odors and maintain smooth operation.
• Replace HVAC Filter if necessary for better indoor air quality.
• Vacuum Air Supply and Return Registers to remove dust and debris.
• Check and Clean Gutters for clogs from fallen leaves.
• Clean Underside of Roof Overhangs and Vents to maintain proper ventilation.
• Inspect Weatherstripping around doors and windows for gaps and reseal as needed.
This list provides a comprehensive guide to maintaining your home throughout the year, helping ensure comfort, safety, and efficiency.Home maintenance is more than just a routine—it’s about preserving and enhancing your living space. While our comprehensive essential home maintenance checklist provides a thorough guide to keeping your home in top condition, sometimes you need quick, actionable projects to boost your home’s functionality and appeal. For homeowners looking to transform their living spaces with minimal time investment, our curated list of 10 easy weekend projects to improve your home offers practical, achievable upgrades that can make a significant difference in your home’s comfort and value.
