Maintenance For Your Home
Fall
- Schedule annual furnace inspection
- Inspect fire extinguisher lock pin and discharge nozzle
- Run clean cycle on self cleaning ovens
- Replace batteries in smoke and CO2 detectors when clocks change
- Drain and clean humidifiers and replace filters
- Drain the water heater to remove settled sediment
- Drain and shut off outside water prior to end of October frost date
- Store garden hoses
- Cover outside air conditioning units—window units or compressors
- Inspect and clean chimneys, roof, gutters, downspouts, and drains
- Replace any damaged caulking/weather stripping around windows and doors
- Look for any signs of animals entering through vents, chimney or garage
- Fill driveway cracks with petroleum- based sealer
Spring
- Schedule annual termite inspection
- Check that sump pump is working by pouring water in the pit
- Vacuum dryer lint hose
- Check washer hoses for any signs of cracks, brittleness or leaks
- Replace batteries in smoke and CO2 detectors when clocks change
- Change in-line water filters (regularly)
- Clean or replace air filters on furnace/AC (every month is best)
- Vacuum baseboard heater
- Rotate storm windows and screens, repairing any damage
- Check and repair exterior wood and cobwebs from grill connections
- Trim trees away from roof surface and electrical wires
- Prune overgrown shrubs to keep windows clear
- Inspect and clean roof, gutters, downspouts, and drains
- Soak shower heads in vinegar or CLR to clean lime deposits
- Have septic tank pumped out (as needed)
For more home maintenance tips read Popular Mechanics list of quick fixes.