Whew! Being a homeowner can be exhausting. Your home is filled with systems and components that require regular maintenance to protect their longevity, prevent you from having to spend more money than you need to, and keeping your greatest asset in top condition.
Adjust the frequency of tasks as needed on the yearly maintenance checklist below based on the specific conditions of your home and any warranties or service plans that may apply. Need help with upkeep of your roof or gutters? Contact LocalRoofs for a free roof checkup and estimate.
January
- Roof: Visually inspect the roof for signs of damage. Look at the ground around your home for signs of broken or dislodged shingles and tiles and other roofing materials.
- Gutters and downspouts: Clear out any debris if you haven’t already before the heaviest part of the rainy season.
- HVAC system: Check and replace air filters after the increased usage during the holidays.
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Test and replace batteries.
- Plumbing: Inspect for leaks after possible stress from holiday guests.
- Safety equipment: Ensure fire extinguishers are in place and not expired.
- Earthquake preparedness: Review and update your emergency kit and family plan.
- Pool circulation: Run the pool pump daily.
- Pool chemical balance: Check weekly and adjust as necessary.
February
- Water heater: Check for leaks or signs of rust.
- Ceilings and walls: Inspect ceilings, walls, and windows for any signs of water intrusion, especially after a heavy rain.
- Refrigerator coils: Clean the coils for efficient operation.
- Circuit breaker: Test the circuit breakers.
- Garage: De-clutter and check for proper ventilation.
- Windows and doors: Check and seal any drafts that have become apparent with cooler weather.
- Outdoor spaces: Inspect for trip hazards.
- Pool equipment check: Inspect all pool equipment for proper operation and address any repairs as needed.
March
- Landscape: Prune plants and check the irrigation system for the spring growth season.
- Dryer vent: Clear out lint build-up.
- Pool filter: Clean or backwash as needed.
- Pool algae prevention: Watch for and treat algae growth.
April
- HVAC system: Service your air conditioning system before the warmer weather sets in.
- Foundation vents: Ensure crawl space vents are clear.
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Test them again, a good practice every quarter.
- Plumbing: Check for leaks in outdoor faucets as you increase outdoor water usage.
- Pool deck: Clean and inspect for repairs.
- Pool surface skimming: Begin regular skimming.
May
- Fascia boards: Look for signs of wood rot or decay. Make sure there are no gaps in the flashing and seals around the roof edge where the fascia boards meet the roof.
- Windows and doors: Wash windows and check screens for tears before opening them up for fresh air.
- Solar panels: Brush off any debris or dirt that may accumulate and affect efficiency in preparation for the sunniest months.
- Garbage disposal: Clean with ice cubes and citrus peels.
- Ceiling fans: Clean off dust and switch the blades to counterclockwise rotation for cooling.
- Deck and patio: Prepare for summer by cleaning, inspecting, and repairing as needed.
- Pool daily maintenance: Increase frequency of skimming, vacuuming, and chemical checks.
- Pool safety inspection: Check safety features.
June
- Pest control: Check for signs of infestations and treat them.
- Appliance check: Inspect appliance cords and operations.
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Mid-year battery check.
- Pool chemicals: Monitor and adjust chemicals frequently.
- Pool filter: Clean or backwash more frequently if necessary.
July
- Gutters and downspouts: Mid-year cleanout, especially if you have trees shedding debris. Make sure gutters are securely attached to fascia boards and aligned.
- Attic: Check attic insulation, temperature, and ventilation to make sure equipment isn’t working harder than it has to.
- Drains: Clear any build-up in household drains.
- Outdoor spaces: Keep up with landscaping during fast summer growth.
- HVAC system: Check and replace the air filters.
- Pool cleaning: Regular skimming, vacuuming, and brushing.
August
- Water heater: Mid-year inspection for leaks or rust.
- Garage: Make sure nothing is blocking the ventilation or access paths.
- Dryer vent: Another lint removal session.
- Pool equipment: Inspect pumps and heaters.
September
- Roof: Post-summer check for any damages.
- Plumbing: Leak and pressure check before the holiday season.
- Safety equipment: Check fire extinguishers as you head into the holiday seasons.
- Windows and doors: Start checking for drafts as the weather cools.
- Pool reduced frequency: Reduce cleaning and chemical check frequency.
- Pool equipment check: Post-summer inspection.
October
- HVAC system: Prep heating system for cooler months. Replace the filter.
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Replace batteries if necessary.
- Landscape: Final pruning before plants go dormant.
- Outdoor furniture: Clean and cover outdoor furniture as you use it less.
- Pool cover preparation: Get ready for cooler months.
- Pool water balance: Adjust for off-peak season.
November
- Gutters and downspouts: Clear out in preparation for winter rains.
- Trees and vegetation: Cut back any branches growing over and/or hitting your roof or siding.
- Solar panels: Clean off accumulated dirt and soot from the summer months and fire season.
- Attic vents: Check attic vents for critter damage or access.
- Ceiling fans: Switch the blades to clockwise to help distribute heat.
- Garbage disposal: Freshen up before holiday cooking increases usage.
- Earthquake preparedness: Double-check your supplies in case of winter storms or earthquakes.
- Circuit breaker: Conduct a routine test.
- Pool filter maintenance: Thorough cleaning after high-use season.
- Pool heating system: Check and maintain if used.
December
- Pest control: Seal up any cracks or holes that pests might use to enter the home in cooler weather.
- Appliance check: Ensure everything is in good working order before the holiday season.
- Pool reduced circulation: Adjust pump runtime.
- Pool winter strategy: Consider a thermal cover if needed.
Need help maintaining or repairing your roof or gutters? Contact LocalRoofs for a free roof checkup and estimate.
