Home maintenance is vital for a safe, comfortable living space. Utilizing a comprehensive checklist across seasons enhances the longevity and value of your home, ensuring the well-being of its occupants. Regular upkeep prevents issues from spiraling out of control, ultimately keeping repair costs down. From protecting against seasonal challenges to maintaining critical systems, this checklist is your guide to a well-cared-for home. Embrace proactive maintenance to safeguard your investment, creating a haven where safety, energy efficiency, comfort, and peace of mind prevail.
Monthly Checks: Essential Areas to Monitor
Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Inspect fire extinguishers and fire blankets, more info here.
Check dryer exhaust vent and remove any lint build-up or blockage.
Check for plumbing leaks. (Supply lines and drains)
Clean and/or replace HVAC filters.
Ensure sump pump is working correctly. (if applicable)
Monitor indoor humidity levels.
Ideal level of is between 30% to 50% RH
Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed. Keep them clean and free of mold.
Check and clean whole-home humidifier filters. (if applicable)
Humidifiers are susceptible to the development of mold, and once mold spores form, they can be readily dispersed throughout the home via the HVAC system.
Spring: Renewal and Preparation
Exterior:
Inspect the roof for any damage or missing shingles.
Clean roof valleys, gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
Downspouts, surface gutters and drains should also be directing water away from the foundation by at least 4 feet. The ground around a house should slope away from all sides, ideally at least 6 inches for the first 10 feet from the house foundation perimeter.
Check for cracks or damage in the foundation and address any issues.
Clean and lubricate door hinges, sliding glass door tracks, handles and locks.
Power wash the exterior to remove winter grime.
Trim trees and shrubs away from the house.
Interior:
Inspect and actuate all water and gas shut-off valves.
Inspect and service the air conditioning system.
Ensure the compressor unit outside is level, the ground underneath may have settled over the winter. Running the unit unlevel can lead to damage over time and shorten the life.
Trim back any vegetation and remove anything near the AC condenser unit, there should be at least 2ft of clearance on every side with vents. Proper air flow to the unit allows it to run efficiently, which saves energy costs and helps extend the life of the equipment.
Test and clean bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, along with ceiling fans.
Inspect the attic; looking for indications of roof leaks, pest activity, blocked vents and missing or insufficient insulation. Correct any issues immediately.
Clean and vacuum vents and ducts. (HVAC, bathroom and kitchen exhaust vents.)
General:
Review and practice Emergency Plans (fire, tornado, power outages, floods, etc.)
Reverse ceiling fan direction for better air circulation. (there's a switch on the side)
Check outdoor lighting for functionality and safety.
Schedule pest control if needed.
De-clutter and organize living spaces.
Service the lawnmower and other garden equipment.
Check and clean Oven/Stove, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Toaster, Microwave, Fridge, Washer, Dryer, and any water filtration system.
Including replacing filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
Summer: Enjoying the Season and Preventing Issues
Exterior:
Inspect and repair the deck, porch, and/or patio. (Including handrails and guards)
Clean and inspect windows, hire a professional or DIY.
Check for drafts around windows and doors.
Remove and replace caulking if needed.
Clean fins of AC condenser.
During spring, seeds from cottonwood trees can accumulate, clogging the fins and obstructing airflow.
Inspect and maintain fences and gates.
Inspect and clean solar panels. (if applicable)
Maintain the lawn and garden.
Interior:
Test all GFCI and AFCI outlets and circuits.
Have a qualified electrician replace any defective device.
Inspect and repair window and door screens.
Inspect and clean the refrigerator coils.
Test and clean ceiling fans and bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans.
Check and clean the entire length of the dryer vent pipe.
A cobweb brush on a long wand and an electric leaf blower are great tools to help clean the hard to reach areas of the pipe.
General:
Schedule an Annual Home Maintenance Inspection by a Certified Professional Home Inspector.
Inspect and clean the barbecue grill. (including filling or replacing propane tank)
Schedule pool and spa maintenance. (if applicable)
Monitor and address pest issues.
Check and clean Oven/Stove, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Toaster, Microwave, Fridge, Washer, Dryer, and any water filtration system.
Including replacing filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
Fall: Preparation for the Colder Months Ahead
Exterior:
Clean and store outdoor furniture.
Clear leaves and debris from roof valleys, gutters and downspouts.
Check for water leaks around the house.
Repair and seal cracks in driveway and walkways.
Inspect gas pipes for rust; clean and paint as needed.
Check and service garage door and opener including safety systems.
Interior:
Test and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Schedule service for furnace/boiler.
Conduct a Radon test and inspect any installed Radon mitigation system.
Insulate exposed pipes near exterior walls to prevent freezing.
Schedule inspection/cleaning for the fireplace and chimney. (if applicable)
General:
Reverse ceiling fan direction for better air circulation. (there's a switch on the side)
Deep clean carpets and upholstery.
Schedule service for septic system. (if applicable)
Inspect private well and equipment. (if applicable)
Hire an Home Inspector or Well and Water Treatment Contractor to perform inspection.
Check and replace weather stripping on doors and windows as needed.
Check and clean Oven/Stove, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Toaster, Microwave, Fridge, Washer, Dryer, and any water filtration system.
Including replacing filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
Winter: Cozy Indoors and Protective Measures
Exterior:
Clear snow and ice from walkways and driveways.
Check for ice dams on the roof and address promptly.
Hire a Home Inspector to help identify the root cause of the ice damming.
Keep snow and ice clear from vents (plumbing, furnace, water heater, and dryer)
Blocked vents can lead to carbon monoxide entering the living space of the home.
Ensure outdoor faucets are turned off and hoses disconnected and stored.
Trim overhanging tree branches to prevent damage during storms.
Inspect the exterior for any damage caused by winter weather.
Interior:
Test all GFCI and AFCI outlets and circuits.
Have a qualified electrician replace any defective device.
Ensure proper and safe use of any space heater.
Inspect and service water heater.
Clean HVAC condensate pump and hose/line. (if applicable)
Inspect and repair all sealing in and around all sinks, tubs, and showers.
Keep cabinets under sinks warm to prevent frozen pipes.
General:
Prepare for winter storms with emergency supplies.
Seal gaps around windows and doors.
Service the snow blower, generator, and other winter equipment.
Plan for and budget any upcoming home improvement projects.
Check and clean Oven/Stove, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Toaster, Microwave, Fridge, Washer, Dryer, and any water filtration system.
Including replacing filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
Remember to follow manufacturer guidelines for specific maintenance requirements for your furnace, boiler, A/C unit, whole-home humidifier, water heaters (both tank and tankless), and any other major equipment throughout the year. Regular checks and maintenance contribute to the longevity and efficiency of these essential systems in your home.
Always remember, Michigan Inspections is here to help you with all your home inspection needs. Contact us to schedule your Annual Home Maintenance Inspection and/or any other inspection services. We are always here for you, we're your MI Guy!
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