Once you’ve moved into your new home, make sure you keep it running smoothly. Following this checklist throughout the year will help prolong, or avoid altogether, more costly repairs.
MONTHLY
☐ Fire Extinguisher: Check that it’s fully charged; recharge or replace if needed.
☐ Sink and Tub Drains: Clean out debris.
☐ Garbage Disposal: Flush with hot water and baking soda.
☐ Water Softener: Check water softener salt drum and replinish salt if necessary.
☐ Forced-Air Heating System: Change filters once a month if user’s manual recommends fiberglass filters.
EVERY 2 MONTHS
☐ Wall Furnace: Clean grills.
☐ Range Hood: Clean grease filter.
EVERY 3 MONTHS
☐ Faucets: Clean aerators and repair any leaks.
☐ Floor and Outdoor Drain Grates: Clean out debris.
EVERY 6 MONTHS
☐ Smoke Detectors: Test batteries and replace if needed.
☐ Toilets: Check for leaks and water run-on.
☐ Interior Caulking: Inspect caulking around tubs, showers, and sinks; replace any if it is deteriorating.
☐ Forced-Air Heating System: Change filters semi-annually if user’s manual recommends high efficiency pleated or HEPA-style filters.
☐ HVAC System:Add 1/2 cup white vinegar to HVAC condensate line to prevent mildew buildup.
☐ Refrigerator: Clean coils.
☐ Garbage Disposal: Tighten drain connections and fasteners.
☐ Clothes Washer: Clean water inlet filters; check hoses and replace them if they are leaking.
☐ Clothes Dryer: Vacuum lint from ducts and surrounding areas.
☐ Wiring: Check for frayed cords and wires; repair or replace them as needed.
☐ Range Hood: Wash fan blades and housing.
☐ Basement: Check for dampness; clean dehumidifier (if applicable)
EVERY SPRING
☐ Roof: Inspect roof surface, flashing, eaves, and soffits; repair if needed.
☐ Gutters and Downspouts: Clean them out or install no-clean version. Inspect and repair weak areas; check for proper drainage and make repairs if needed.
☐ Siding: Inspect and clean siding and repair if needed.
☐ Exterior Caulking: Inspect caulking and replace any that is deteriorating.
☐ Windowsills, Doorsills, Thresholds: Fill cracks, caulk edges, repaint; replace if needed.
☐ Window and Door Screens: Clean screening and repair or replace if needed; tighten or repair any loose or damaged frames and repaint if needed; replace broken, worn, or missing hardware; tighten and lubricate door hinges and closers.
EVERY FALL
☐ Roof: Inspect roof surface, flashing, eaves, and soffits; repair if needed.
☐ Gutters and Downspouts: Clean out. Inspect and repair weak points; check for proper slope.
☐ Chimney or Stovepipe: Clean flue (more frequently if needed); repair any cracks in flue or any loose or crumbling mortar.
☐ Siding: Inspect and clean siding and repair if needed.
☐ Exterior Caulking: Inspect caulking and replace any that is deteriorating.
☐ Storm Windows and Doors: Replace any cracked or broken glass; tighten or repair any loose or damaged frames and repaint if needed. Replace damaged hardware; tighten and lubricate door hinges and closers.
☐ Window and Door Weather Stripping: Inspect and repair or replace if it is deteriorating or if it does not seal.
☐ Thermostat: Clean heat sensor, contact points, and contacts; check accuracy and replace thermostat if it is not functioning properly.
☐ Outdoor Faucets: Shut off valves to outdoor faucets. Open spigots and drain, store hoses.
☐ Water Heater: Drain water until it is clear of sediment; test temperature pressure relief valve; clean burner and ports (gas heater).
☐ HVAC System: Have a professional tune up your heat/air conditioning system.
Contact me for a free PDF file of this checklist!
Posted on June 10, 2014 at 10:52 am by Palmer Harned
