Chapter 1: The Importance of Regular Home Care

For many homeowners, keeping track of the various maintenance tasks required throughout the year can be overwhelming. When I bought my first home, I quickly realized the necessity of understanding basic upkeep and preventive measures. To make this process easier, I started documenting all my maintenance activities, transforming them into a routine. This approach not only helped me remember annual tasks but also saved me significant money in the long run.

Below, I've compiled a comprehensive guide detailing essential checks and maintenance routines categorized by season. This framework aims to help you manage your home ownership expenses effectively, just as it has for me.

Spring Tasks

• Replace the air conditioning filter.
• Inspect the roof for damaged or missing shingles and leaks.
• Clean windows and window screens, including door screens.
• Dust light fixtures and clean wood surfaces.
• Power wash the exterior of the house.
• Change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Examine the pump and septic tank.
• Clear lint from the dryer vent.
• Check the chimney for any damage.
• Assess the caulking in tubs, showers, and sinks.
• Re-caulk around doors, windows, and other weatherstripping.
• Remove insulation coverings from outdoor mechanicals.
• Inspect sprinkler heads.
• Schedule maintenance for the air conditioning unit.
• Check the water softener functionality.
• Drain or flush the water heater if applicable.
• Remove any dead plants or shrubs from the yard.
• Fertilize the lawn.

Summer Tasks

• Clean the kitchen exhaust fan filter.
• Lubricate the garage door, chains, and hinges.
• Clean refrigerator and freezer coils, empty drip trays.
• Seal grout in tiled areas.
• Prune trees and shrubs.
• Replace washers in interior and exterior faucets and showerheads as necessary.
• Clean the range hood fan.
• Look out for harmful insects in the yard.

Fall Tasks

• Rake leaves and debris, aerate the lawn.
• Schedule annual inspection and maintenance for the heating system.
• Inspect the fireplace.
• Seal any gaps in windows and doors for improved energy efficiency.
• Check the roof for leaks and damaged shingles.
• Inspect and repair the exterior siding; touch up paint where needed.
• Power wash the home if required.
• Ensure gutters are clear and functioning properly.
• Fill any cracks in the driveway.

Winter Tasks

• Cover the air conditioning unit.
• Inspect basements for leaks.
• Check the roof and gutters after winter storms.
• Vacuum refrigerator and freezer coils, clean drip trays.
• Lubricate garage door tracks before freezing temperatures set in.
• Clean drains in sinks, tubs, showers, and dishwashers, inspecting for leaks.
• Change furnace filters.
• Inspect all appliance hoses.
• Run water and flush toilets in unused spaces.
• Remove ice dams or icicles carefully.
• Treat steps and driveways for safety in freezing conditions.