How to Make a Home Maintenance Checklist

Owning a home means that you have to maintain it. Sometimes that can become daunting. Some tasks are done only once in a while so they’re easy to overlook and sometimes it feels like it’s too much. A home maintenance checklist will make it easier for you to manage the upkeep of your house. It can also help catch minor issues before they become costly home repairs. Start by brainstorming all the maintenance that should be completed over the course of the year.

Start with obvious tasks like changing the HVAC system’s air filter monthly and review appliance manuals, home warranties and other documents that list required maintenance. Organize the checklist by frequency on a calendar. Finally, set up alerts and reminders so you don’t forget the tasks you just outlined. Set up a reminder on your smartphone or use our app, HomeKeepr (contact us for download). Be specific when creating the calendar, and select a specific day and time to handle necessary upkeep.

Still stuck? Here’s a handy annual maintenance checklist to help get you started.

Monthly:

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Change air filters in the heating and air conditioning system.
• Clean range hood filters to avoid possible grease fires.
• Trim back any shrubbery or plant growth around the outdoor HVAC unit by at least 18 inches.
• Clean the furnace filter.
• Check the water softener and replenish salt, if necessary.
• Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove mineral deposits.
• Inspect tub and sink drains for debris and unclog. Inspect the rubber seal and replace if needed.
• Check that the fire extinguisher is fully charged.
• Flush the garbage disposal with hot water and baking soda.
• Clean the wall furnace grills.

Quarterly:

• Clean and wipe down sliding doors and window tracks.
• Clean the faucet aerator.
• Test the garage door and grease tracks as needed.
• Clean shower heads and taps.
• Clean ceiling fans.
• Pest control.
• Clean the garbage disposal.
• Clean inside of fridge.
• Clear out the debris for the floor and outdoor drain grates.

Semiannually:

• Clear gutters of spring and fall foliage.
• Power wash windows and siding.
• Schedule seasonal service of the HVAC system before summer and winter.
• Have an HVAC technician inspect your system for either cooling or heating.
• Clean over filters, oven and range.
• Vacuum lint from your dryer.
• Deep clean the house.
• Check the roof for soft spots.
• Check water flow from down spouts.
• Clear dead plants and shrubs.
• Check toilets for leaks and water run-on and repair as needed.
• Replace batteries in smoke detectors.
• Check for frayed cords and wires and repair or replace them as needed.
• Clean the clothes washer water inlet filters and check hoses and replace them if they are leaking.
• Tighten drain connectors and fasteners on the garbage disposal.
• Test your water heater’s pressure relief valve.

Annually:

• Inspect and insulate pipes to protect them from freezing.
• Trim trees and shrubs away from the home’s exterior.
• Touch up exterior paint and check for wood rot or water damage.
• Check grouting and caulking in kitchen and bathroom and repair if necessary.
• Flush out the water heater.
• Check your attic’s insulation and replace, if necessary.
• Clean your dishwasher.
• Test the sump pump.
• Lubricate fan motor on HVAC system.
• Check all exhaust vents are clear.
• Install weather stripping.
• Replace damaged window screens and glass.
• Clean the deck and patio.
• Clean outdoor intake valves.
• Check ductwork for leaks.
• Change sacrificial anode rod.
• Test temperature and pressure release valve in the water heater.
• Inspect heat exchangers.
• Remove exterior hoses and drain.
• Winterize your air conditioner.
• Vacuum and clean furnace.
• Vacuum the coils on the fridge.
• Clean fridge drain pan.
• Clean circuit breaker.
• Test all electrical outlets.
• Run water in unused areas of the home.
• Inspect fire extinguishers.
• Rake leaves and aerate the lawn.
• Have a “rooter” professional clean out the main line.
• Have the fireplace professionally inspected; clean the flue, repair any cracks in the flue or any loose or crumbling mortar.
• Clean the thermostat’s heat sensor, contact points and contacts. Check accuracy and replace the thermostat if it is not functioning properly.
• Check the exterior drainage.
• Turn off and flush outdoor water faucets.
• Check driveway/pavement for cracks.
• Buy winter gear like sidewalk salt, good shovels, etc., for winter.
• Tighten any handles, knobs, racks, etc.
• Check all locks and deadbolts on your doors and windows.
• Clean the carpets.