Regular home maintenance prevents small problems from becoming expensive emergencies, protects your investment, and maintains your home's value and safety. Experts recommend budgeting 1-4% of your home's value annually for maintenance.
30 steps across 6 sections
1. Monthly Tasks (Every Month)
- Check HVAC filters — Replace disposable filters every 1-3 months. Dirty filters reduce efficiency and air quality.
- Test smoke and CO detectors — Press the test button to verify function. Replace batteries at least annually.
- Inspect under sinks and around toilets — Look for leaks, moisture, and signs of water damage.
- Run water in unused fixtures — Prevent drain traps from drying out (which allows sewer gases to enter).
- Check fire extinguisher pressure — Verify the gauge is in the green zone.
2. Spring (March-May)
- Service HVAC for cooling season — Professional tune-up, clean condenser coils, check refrigerant levels.
- Clean gutters and downspouts — Remove debris and verify water flows away from the foundation.
- Inspect the roof — Look for missing, damaged, or curling shingles and damaged flashing.
- Check exterior drainage — Ensure soil slopes away from the foundation (6 inches of drop over 10 feet).
- Power wash exterior — Clean siding, decks, patios, and driveways.
- Inspect deck and outdoor structures — Look for rot, loose boards, and structural issues. Apply sealant as needed.
- Service lawn equipment — Tune up mower, check sprinkler system, and sharpen tools.
3. Summer (June-August)
- Inspect and repair caulking — Check around windows, doors, tubs, showers, and sinks. Recaulk as needed.
- Clean dryer vent — Lint buildup is a major fire hazard. Clean the full vent duct, not just the trap.
- Check attic ventilation — Verify soffit and ridge vents are clear. Proper ventilation prevents heat buildup and moisture damage.
- Inspect sprinkler system — Check for broken heads, coverage gaps, and proper timer settings.
4. Fall (September-November)
- Service HVAC for heating season — Professional furnace/boiler inspection and tune-up.
- Clean gutters again — Remove fallen leaves before winter.
- Winterize outdoor plumbing — Disconnect hoses, shut off exterior faucets, drain sprinkler systems.
- Seal air leaks — Check weather stripping on doors and windows. Apply caulk around penetrations.
- Inspect chimney and fireplace — Professional cleaning and inspection before the first fire.
- Test sump pump — Pour water into the pit to verify the pump activates and discharges properly.
5. Winter (December-February)
- Monitor for ice dams — Watch for icicles forming at the eaves, which indicate heat loss and potential leaks.
- Check attic insulation — Verify adequate coverage (10-14 inches of fiberglass or equivalent).
- Inspect plumbing in cold areas — Ensure pipes in unheated spaces are insulated. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls during extreme cold.
6. Annual Tasks
- Flush water heater — Remove sediment buildup to maintain efficiency and extend life.
- Test water pressure — Verify pressure is 40-80 psi. Install or adjust a pressure regulator if needed.
- Deep clean range hood and exhaust — Remove grease buildup from filters, fan, and ductwork.
- Inspect foundation — Look for cracks, settling, and water intrusion both inside and outside.
- Review homeowner's insurance — Ensure coverage matches current home value and contents.
Common Mistakes
- Skipping seasonal maintenance
- Ignoring the HVAC system
- Forgetting dryer vent cleaning
- Not testing sump pumps
- Deferring maintenance to save money
Pro Tips
- Create a home maintenance binder
- Use calendar reminders
- Budget 1-4% of home value annually
- Batch seasonal tasks into one weekend
- Keep a contractor contact list