It seems that with the new year we are all looking for a new goal, a new habit, or a new way of life. This is the time for resolutions. What are your new years resolutions? What types of things have made it on your list? Along with a myriad of other ideas, many people add something to their list regarding organization or home maintenance. If better home maintenance has made it to your checklist, then the following list will help you.

 
Monthly:

1. Clean dishwasher filter (if provided), usually at lower spray arm.
2. Purge garbage disposal by first filling kitchen sink with clean water, then turn on food disposer until water is drained through.
3. Change/clean air conditioning return filters monthly. This will help keep your air cleaner and system running more efficiently. Clogged air filters will make your system operate longer than required, thereby increasing your monthly bills.
4. Wash refrigerator/freezer interior walls and door liner with solution of 1 quart warm water: 2 tablespoons of baking soda, and wipe dry.
5. Vacuum and clean all return air ducts/grills.
6. Inspect lighting fixtures and replace blown light bulbs.
7. Clean clothes drier lint traps and or ducts to reduce fire risk.
8. Clean toaster oven crumb tray.

 

Quarterly:

1. Inspect exterior doors to ensure they are weather tight. Adjust or replace weather stripping as needed.
2. Service doors(incl. garage doors) and drawers, clean and lubricate latches, hinges and guides.
3. Inspect and repair exterior caulking around windows, doors, and siding.
4. Replace/clean central heating system(furnace) filters.
5. Re-tighten knobs on kitchen cabinets, don’t overtighten.

 
Semi-Annually:

1. Have heating and air conditioning systems inspected and serviced by licensed contractor.
2. Inspect and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace back up batteries.
3. Check (GFCI)ground fault interrupted circuits. Test if grounded and correct polarity.
4. Inspect and maintain proper drainage around home. Clean gutters and down-pipes and ensure water is flowing away from your home.
5. Inspect home for rodent droppings or other pests. Have home treated as needed.
6. Test sump pump for reliable operation, especially before any rainy season.
7. Wash fan housing and metal filter connected to range hood exhaust fans. These can be safely washed by placing them inside the dishwasher.
8. Vacuum coils behind refrigerator/freezer to remove dust, this will improve efficiency of unit.
9. Tap off a bucket of water from the hot water heater until it runs clean.

 

Annually:

1. Inspect and repair settling cracks (if necessary).
2. Inspect and lubricate garage door tracks.
3. Inspect exterior paint for cracking and wear. Repaint or seal as needed.
4. Drain and refill water heater.
5. Trip main breaker on electric panel.
6. Inspect all electric cords and replace if necessary.
7. Inspect attic for water damage, birds, and rodents.
8. Inspect all electrical cords and replace if necessary.
9. Inspect basement for moisture/mold and wood rot.
10. Inspect attic for signs of roof leaks or water damage, bird nests, rodent or squirrel nests, and clean if necessary.
11. Change water filters and have water softeners serviced.
12. Inspect roof flashings, chimney caps, shingles(for mold and damage) and caulking for possible damage.
13. Pressure wash deck, walkways and driveway.
14. Reseal wood decks with preservative and inspect and secure nails that may be protruding out. Nails have a tendency to pop out after very cold weather conditions.
15. Clean or replace oil filter(oil fired burner only).
16. Inspect outside electrical service feeder for exposed bare wires and tree interference.
17. Inspect basement/crawl space area for signs of termites and/or other wood-boring insects.
18. Use hose to wash off dirt from coil and fan in heat pump/condenser locate outside of house.
19. Inspect all hoses(and replace if necessary) connected to laundry washer unit.
20. Clean and seal ceramic tile grout lines in bathrooms/toilets/kitchen.
21. Check caulking at tub and shower, and replace if necessary.
22. Wash and blow clean bathroom exhaust fan grill and fan blades.
23. Wash windows(exterior and interior), screens, seals and ledges. Repair if necessary.
24. Clean and lubricate sliding glass door tracks and window tracks.
25. Check stucco joints around doors and windows.
26. Inspect the dishwasher’s motor motor spin seal, and replace if necessary.
27. Inspect laundry washer water fill hoses for cracks, blisters, corroded fittings and leaks.
28. Place beeswax or paraffin on built-in kitchen cabinets that have wooden guides.
29. Inspect for creosote deposits in the fireplace flue liner, these are black or brown residue of combustion that collects on the inner surfaces. If the build up is more than 1/8 inch, remove it.
30. Vacuum around the gas hot water heater(especially near furnace) to remove dirt and grime.

 
 

Special thanks to Scott Knudsen of Signature Home Services