The truth is your home is most likely the biggest purchase you will ever make. And while we often put a lot of time in making sure it looks great, the truth is it needs to run as well as it looks if you want to protect your investment in the long run. We suggest making it a point at the end of each year to go over an annual home maintenance checklist and set a schedule for the annual, quarterly and monthly tasks. Our checklist below is a good place to start. Read on for 15 things you should be doing to cut down on potential costly repairs and keep your home in prime working condition.
Quick Check Maintenance Check List
1. Test your garage door opener to ensure that it reverses when it hits an obstruction or when its sensor beam is interrupted.
2. Vacuum the clothes dryer’s exhaust duct at least once a year. If the duct is plastic, replace it (it’s a fire hazard). Rigid sheet-metal ducting is best.
3. Replace furnace filters quarterly, or as recommended by the furnace manufacturer.
4. Test all GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets monthly. Press the test button and use a voltage tester to make sure the power goes off.
5. Clean leaves and debris from the condenser of a central air conditioner seasonally.
6. Once a year, vacuum the refrigerator coils underneath the appliance.
7. Have the fireplace chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
8. Inspect window and door caulking and weather stripping yearly.
9. Replace the batteries in smoke detectors yearly. And remember, even recent hard-wired smoke detectors have backup batteries that must be replaced. If you have never checked yours, do so.
10. Have your roof inspected and around the vents, skylights and chimneys for sun damaged sealant.
11. Clean your kitchen exhaust hood.
12. Check water heater for signs of leakage or rust.
13. Check toilet tank and supply lines for leaks.
14. Clear sink and shower drains of hair.
15. Inspect painted surfaces as recommend by the manufacture.
