Homeowner Tips

It’s important to perform these routine maintenance services on your home every month. Please come back to this list often to help keep your home safe, healthy, and more energy efficient.

Note—not all items apply to all homes.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

MARCH/APRIL

MAY/JUNE

JULY/AUGUST

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

JANUARY / FEBRUARY
MAINTENANCE REMINDERS

• Clean or replace furnace filter and air-cleaner
• Check and clean mechanical ventilation system (HRV)
• Check exhaust fans
• Clean snow from air intakes, exhaust, and meters
• Clean range hood filter
• Remove snow from roof to prevent ice dams
• Check and clean sump pump and pit
• Inspect pressure and temperature valve on water heater
• Clean faucet aerators and turn on seldom-used faucets; put water in floor drains to maintain the trap's water barrier

MAY / JUNE
MAINTENANCE REMINDERS

• Check and clean mechanical ventilation system (HRV)
• Clean air intakes, exhaust and meters of debris, nests, etc.
• Check gutters and downspouts and clean if needed
• Open outside hose connection
• Check and clean central air conditioning system
• Check landscaping sprinklers to ensure proper alignment (do not let them soak your siding or foundation)
• Replace air conditioning filters monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer
• Inspect pressure and temperature valve on water heater
• Clean A/C condenser
• Maintain proper grades for drainage throughout property

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER
MAINTENANCE REMINDERS

• Check fireplace and chimney; service or clean if needed
• Clean range hood filter
• Check and clean mechanical ventilation system (HRV)
• Clear air intakes, exhaust and meters of debris, nests, etc.
• Perform safety checks: smoke detector, fire escape routes, fire extinguishers, door and window locks
• Check gutters and downspouts and clean if needed
• Check roofing and flashing for signs of wear or damage
• Check roof vents/soffit vents
• Close outside hose connection and drain
• Winterize landscaping and blow out irrigation system
• Inspect pressure and temperature valve on water heater
• Maintain proper grades for drainage throughout property
• Adjust thermostat for season change; check humidity levels to  prevent excessive moisture
• Clean dryer vent

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MARCH / APRIL
MAINTENANCE REMINDERS

• Check and clean mechanical ventilation system (HRV)
• Check or replace furnace filters
• Clean snow from air intakes, exhaust, and meters
• Remove snow from roof to prevent ice dams
• Check gutters and downspouts and clean if needed
• Inspect basement/crawl space for seepage or leakage
• Maintain proper grades for drainage throughout property
• Be sure to check for settling after spring thaw
• Check and repair any screen damage
• Inspect roof for damage and make repairs when needed
• Adjust thermostat for season change; check humidity levels to prevent excessive moisture

JULY / AUGUST
MAINTENANCE REMINDERS

• Check air intakes, exhaust and meters of debris, nests, etc.
• Check gutters and downspouts and clean if needed
• Check exterior finishes
• Check and clean mechanical ventilation system (HRV)
• Air out damp basements on dry days or use dehumidifier
• Have furnace (heating system) serviced
• Check hot water heater for mineral buildup, drain and refill
• Check and repair all exterior caulking and weather stripping, especially around windows and entry doors
• Seal coat and repair asphalt driveway as needed
• Replace air conditioning filters monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer
• Clean A/C condenser

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER
MAINTENANCE REMINDERS

• Check attic for signs of moisture
• Clean or replace furnace filter
• Check and clean mechanical ventilation system (HRV)
• Check exhaust fans
• Clear air intakes, exhaust and meters of snow, debris, etc.
• Remove snow from roof to prevent ice dams
• Check adjustment of door thresholds
• Check garage floor for cracks-seal and caulk