Managing Home Maintenance: Year-Round Checklists for a Well-Maintained Property

Ah, the joys of homeownership. Whether it’s your air conditioner quitting on you in the middle of the night or a lawn that doesn’t seem to stay green, the to-do list can seem endless when playing defense.

But instead of playing whack-a-mole when trouble arises, use a year-round checklist to keep your property well-maintained and your family happy. Here is a suggested checklist you can follow and keep your home in tip-top shape all year.

Monthly

• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Clean your air vents.
• Check your sump pump.
• Clear your gutters and downspouts.
• Flush your water heater.
• Inspect your home for pests.
• Clean your dryer vent.
• Clean your refrigerator coils.

Quarterly

• Inspect your roof and siding for damage.
• Clean your windows and screens.
• Vacuum your carpets.
• Inspect your foundation for cracks or other signs of damage.
• Have your HVAC system inspected and serviced.

Semi-annually

• Fertilize your lawn and garden.
• Trim your trees and shrubs.
• Power wash your driveway and walkways.
• Clean your gutters and downspouts again.
• Have your water heater inspected and serviced.

Annually

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned.
• Drain and winterize your exterior plumbing.
• Tune up your lawnmower and other outdoor equipment.
• Have your septic tank pumped out (if applicable).

Winter

• Insulate your pipes.
• Check your roof and gutters for snow and ice buildup.
• Clear your walkways and driveway of snow and ice.
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Summer

• Clean your air conditioner coils.
• Check your sprinklers and irrigation system.
• Apply sunscreen to your windows and doors.
• Keep your trees and shrubs trimmed to prevent them from blocking sunlight.

Regular home maintenance is like a well-choreographed dance; it keeps your property in top shape year-round. Remember, it's always wise to adapt your checklist to your unique home and local climate, ensuring everything runs smoothly.