Before your roof leaks, your pipes burst and your air conditioner goes on the fritz in the middle of July, keep your house in order by sticking to this calendar.
By Alex Bates
January
- Schedule an energy audit with your utility company to see how you can improve your home’s energy efficiency.
- Check and clean sump pump.
- Clean or replace furnace filter.
- Have air ducts cleaned.
February
- Clean grout between tiles in your kitchen and bath; examine flooring through house for problems.
- Look for leaks in faucets, toilets, showers and under-sink areas. Repair if necessary.
- Check out ventilation system.
- Inspect pressure and temperature valve on water heater.
March
- Do spring yard cleanup. Reseed and fertilize lawn and plants.
- Inspect the basement and attic for cracks, leaks and water damage.
- Double-check shingles and siding and look out for peeling exterior paint.
- Clean out buildup in dryer vents.
April
- Examine smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Change batteries if necessary.
- Run the sprinkler system to be sure it’s operating properly.
- Clean garbage disposal by grinding two trays of ice cubes made of one cup white vinegar in up to a gallon of water.
- Check water softener and clean if necessary.
May
- Check foundation for cracks and termite tubes. Call pest control if needed.
- Remove, clean and store storm windows. Repair or replace if broken. Wash windows and put in screens.
- Double-check gutters and roof for leaks. Repair if necessary.
- Check that exhaust ducts are clear.
June
- Cut back any overhanging trees.
- Check hoses on washer, dishwasher and refrigerator to ensure they’re draining properly and not leaking.
- Examine wood decks for wear and deterioration. Clean and seal decks.
- Change air-conditioning filters.
July
- Repair or repave driveway.
- Check operation of fans, turbine vents and electrical circuit breakers.
- Remove accumulated mineral deposits from showerheads.
- Deep-clean carpets and rugs.
August
- Perform garage-door maintenance. Check for loose or worn hinges and springs.
- Repair minor brick and mortar cracks.
- Have your gas or oil furnace serviced, and change filter.
- Add attic insulation if needed.
September
- Drain water heater, flush and refill.
- Remove sick or dead trees, and seed patchy parts of lawn. Add compost, manure and mulch to garden beds.
- Patch or replace crumbling or missing grout.
October
- Run the sprinkler system, fix any leaks, drain and turn off.
- Take window screens out, wash and store. Wash windows before installing storm windows. Check weatherstripping and caulk around windows and doors.
- Inspect and clean fireplace flue before the first fire. Make sure chimney is clear of debris and nests.
- Check water heater for leaks, and insulate water heater and outdoor pipes.
November
- Check attic vents and seal all heat vents with heat-resistant tape.
- Be sure all exhaust ducts are clear.
- Check incandescent light bulbs. Clean or replace.
- Test all window and door locks for proper operation.
December
- Dust or vacuum bathroom fan grilles and smoke detectors.
- Check gauges on all fire extinguishers.
- Reapply grout sealer to tile grout.
- Examine and clean kitchen appliances. Clean dishwasher food filters, and check that openings in spray arms are clear.
