Annual Home Maintenance Plan — Personalized & Printable

❄️

Midwinter

January – February

Interior

🏠 Inside

HVAC · Heating

Heating System Health Check

Replace furnace/air handler filter
Check all supply registers and return vents are unobstructed
Listen for unusual sounds — rattling, squealing, or short-cycling are warning signs
Check boiler pressure gauge (should be 12–25 PSI); look for leaks at joints and valves
Vacuum electric baseboard fins with brush attachment; ensure clearances are maintained
Check direct-vent space heater combustion window for soot; confirm burner ignites cleanly; check flue termination is clear of snow or ice
Check heat pump outdoor unit — clear snow and ice; verify defrost cycle is operating normally

Heating Fuel

Fuel Supply Monitoring

Check heating oil tank gauge; keep above 1/4 full — schedule delivery before running low
Check propane tank gauge; schedule delivery if below 25% — low pressure causes burner issues in cold weather
Keep your emergency fuel supplier contact handy and know your typical delivery window

HVAC · Humidification

Whole-House Humidifier Check

Check water panel/evaporator pad — replace if caked with mineral deposits
Clean humidifier drum or reservoir to prevent mold and mineral buildup
Verify humidistat setting (35–45% RH is typical for winter)
Confirm drain line is clear and flowing

Safety Systems

Safety Device Testing

Test all smoke detectors — press button until alarm sounds
Test all CO detectors — especially critical during heating season
Replace batteries in any detector that chirps; replace units over 10 yrs (smoke) / 5–7 yrs (CO)
Inspect fire extinguisher — gauge needle in green zone; no corrosion or damage
Confirm combustion appliances have adequate air supply and unobstructed flues

Plumbing

Freeze Prevention & Pipe Inspection

Identify and inspect pipes in unheated spaces (garage, rim joist, crawlspace, exterior walls)
During extreme cold (below 15°F), let a trickle run from faucets on vulnerable pipes
Keep cabinet doors open under kitchen/bath sinks on exterior walls during cold nights
Confirm main water shut-off location and that it operates freely
Check under all sinks for slow leak signs: staining, soft cabinet bottom
Ensure well house/pump is insulated; confirm heat tape is plugged in on supply line

Attic

Ice Dam & Attic Moisture Watch

After heavy snowfall: check ceiling near exterior walls and skylights for water stains
Check attic for frost on sheathing — indicates air leaks or inadequate ventilation
Confirm attic vents are not blocked by blown insulation or stored items
If ice dams present: use roof rake from ground to remove snow from lowest 3–4 feet of roof — never go on a snow-covered or icy roof

Basement & Crawlspace

Sump Pump & Winter Moisture Check

Test sump pump: pour 5 gallons into pit to confirm float trigger and discharge
Check discharge line is not frozen or blocked
Inspect for efflorescence (white mineral staining) or new cracks — signs of water infiltration

Fireplace

Fireplace Operations Check

Before each fire: confirm damper is fully open; test for downdraft with a lit match
Burn only well-seasoned hardwood — never green wood, trash, or treated lumber
Always use a fireplace screen when fire is burning
Check wood stove door gasket — replace if compressed or cracking
Check gas fireplace pilot light is steady; glass is clean; no unusual smells or soot buildup

Exterior

🌲 Outside

Roof & Ice

Snow Load & Ice Dam Management

After heavy snowfall (12"+): use roof rake from ground to remove snow from eaves
Never go on a snow-covered or icy roof
Watch for icicle formation at eaves — indicates ice dam potential

Driveway & Walkways

Ice & Snow Management

Use calcium chloride or magnesium chloride ice melt (less damaging to concrete than rock salt)
Apply ice melt before a storm to prevent bonding
Keep path clear from door to gas meter, electrical panel, and shutoffs
Check handrails on steps for stability — critical in icy conditions

Generator

Backup Power Check

Test generator: run 15–20 minutes under load to ensure reliable cold-weather startup
Check fuel level; ensure fresh stabilized fuel is on hand
Never run generator indoors or within 20 feet of any door or window

Trees

Winter Tree & Yard Safety

After ice storms: gently knock ice off evergreen branches to prevent breakage
Check for branches cracked or hanging over the house — schedule removal before they fall
Do not pile driveway snow against foundation or against tree trunks

🌱

Early Spring

After last average freeze — before last frost

Interior

🏠 Inside

HVAC · Cooling Prep

AC System Tune-Up & Transition

Pro Req'd Schedule professional AC tune-up before the cooling season — book early before schedules fill
Change furnace/air handler filter
Clean condensate drain line with diluted bleach solution
Uncover outdoor condenser; clear debris; gently straighten bent fins with a fin comb
Test cooling with a 15-minute run on a mild day (above 60°F outside)
Inspect window AC units for winter storage damage; clean filter or evaporator
Clean ductless mini-split indoor unit filters; wipe down louvers

Plumbing

Post-Winter Plumbing Check

Slowly open interior shut-off valves for outdoor hose bibs; check bibs for freeze cracks
Inspect washing machine hot/cold supply hoses — replace if cracked, bulging, or over 5 years old
Check dishwasher supply line and drain hose for kinks or damage
Test toilet flappers: add food dye to tank; color in bowl without flushing = replace flapper
Annual water quality test — collect sample per lab instructions; test coliform, nitrates, pH at minimum

Attic

Attic Annual Inspection

Inspect for animal intrusion over winter: droppings, nesting, chewed insulation or wiring
Check insulation depth (recommended R-38 to R-60 depending on climate zone)
Inspect all roof vents and baffles — intact and clear
Look for condensation staining on rafters — indicates insufficient ventilation
Seal gaps around recessed lights and plumbing penetrations with fire-rated caulk or foam

Basement & Crawlspace

Spring Moisture & Sump Pump Check

Inspect for winter moisture damage: water stains, efflorescence, mold, musty odor
Test sump pump with a bucket of water; check battery backup if installed
Inspect rim joist insulation — a major air leakage point
Open crawlspace vents if closed for winter
Check vapor barrier in crawlspace for tears or displacement

Windows & Doors

Weatherstripping & Screen Inspection

Inspect all exterior door and window weatherstripping — replace if compressed, torn, or missing
Re-caulk window and door frames where old caulk has cracked or separated
Remove storm windows; install screens
Inspect screens — patch small holes with repair tape or replace damaged screens
Check double-pane windows for fogging between panes — indicates failed seal

Appliances

Spring Appliance Service

Clean refrigerator condenser coils — vacuum behind and underneath
Check refrigerator door seals — slide paper: if it slips out easily, seals need replacement
Clean full dryer exhaust duct from dryer to exterior with a flexible dryer vent brush kit
Confirm dryer vent exterior flap opens freely and closes fully
Clean range hood grease filters — soak in hot soapy water or dishwasher
Check dishwasher door gasket and spray arms for cracks or clogs

Exterior

🌲 Outside

Roof

Post-Winter Roof Inspection

Inspect roof from ground with binoculars — look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
Check all flashing: chimney, skylights, dormers, pipe boots, roof-to-wall intersections
Inspect ridge line — sagging indicates a structural concern
Check roof vents and turbines for intact screens — pest entry point if broken
Look for dark (algae) or green (moss) staining — treat with zinc-sulfate or copper-based solution

Gutters & Downspouts

Spring Gutter Cleaning & Inspection

Clean winter debris from gutters, especially near downspouts
Flush with hose; confirm downspouts are clear and flowing freely
Check for low spots — ideal is 1/4" drop per 10 feet toward downspout
Re-secure any hangers that have pulled away from fascia
Confirm downspouts discharge at least 6 feet from the foundation
Inspect soffits and fascia behind gutters for rot from winter overflow

Foundation & Grading

Foundation Perimeter Inspection

Walk full foundation — look for new cracks (horizontal/stair-step cracks in block are serious; consult an engineer)
Check grading: ground should slope away from foundation 6" over the first 10 feet
Look for frost heave damage — displaced walkway sections, new gaps at foundation
Fill voids against foundation and re-grade as needed
Check basement window wells for debris; clear drains if present
Inspect wood-to-ground contact on porch posts, deck posts, or siding — primary termite entry point

Siding & Exterior

Siding Inspection & Cleaning

Walk all four elevations — look for loose/damaged siding, missing caulk, peeling paint, rot, impact damage
Check wood siding for rot at horizontal lap joints, window sills, and any horizontal surface
Check vinyl siding for cracks and gaps at J-channels where rodents can enter
Check brick/stone mortar joints for crumbling; look for efflorescence (white staining)
Check stucco for cracks wider than 1/16" — fill with elastomeric caulk or stucco patch
Pressure wash siding after winter

Driveway & Walkways

Hardscape Repair After Winter

Fill concrete cracks with concrete crack filler; smooth and feather edges
Fill asphalt potholes with cold-patch; fill cracks with asphalt crack filler before sealing
Reset heaved or sunken pavers; re-sand joints with polymeric sand
Check step handrails for stability — tighten or re-anchor as needed
Remove winter sand or grit from surfaces and lawn edges

Deck & Structures

Deck & Fence Post-Winter Inspection

Walk deck surface slowly — probe spongy boards with a screwdriver (soft = rot)
Check ledger board connection to house — look for flashing gaps, rot, or loose bolts
Inspect deck posts at grade level for rot in the bottom 6 inches
Check railing stability — grab and shake hard; must support 200 lbs laterally
Inspect fence for heaved posts, broken boards, or sagging sections

Well & Water

Well System Spring Check

Collect and submit annual water quality test sample — coliform, E. coli, nitrates, pH at minimum
Check well cap is securely seated and screen is intact
Inspect well casing and surroundings for standing water or erosion
Check pressure tank pre-charge pressure (typically 28 PSI for a 30/50 system)
Replace sediment filter on schedule if installed

🌸

After Last Frost

Triggered: after your region's last frost date

Interior

🏠 Inside

Pest Control

Spring Pest Inspection & Prevention

Inspect foundation, sill plates, and basement framing for termite mud tubes
Check wood piles, stumps, and wood-soil contact areas for carpenter ant activity
Seal gaps around pipes, conduits, and wires where they enter the house (copper mesh + foam)
Replace damaged door sweeps and repair screen gaps
Check crawlspace vents for damaged or missing screens
Treat perimeter with residual insecticide (permethrin or bifenthrin) for seasonal pest barrier

Bathroom

Bathroom Caulk & Grout Inspection

Inspect caulk at tub/shower surround — re-caulk any gaps with 100% silicone bathroom caulk
Check grout between wall tiles for cracks — re-grout or caulk cracked areas
Clean bathroom exhaust fan cover; vacuum fan motor carefully
Check under-sink P-trap for drips; check supply line connections at angle stops

Kitchen

Kitchen Deep Clean & Appliance Check

Clean oven interior (self-clean cycle or manual cleaning; ventilate well during self-clean)
Pull refrigerator out; clean behind and underneath; check ice maker water line if installed
Clean garbage disposal with ice cubes and rock salt, then rinse with citrus peels
Clean dishwasher filter (bottom basket) — remove and rinse under hot water
Run dishwasher empty with a cup of white vinegar on top rack to descale
Inspect kitchen faucet aerator — unscrew, clean debris, replace if corroded

Exterior

🌲 Outside

Lawn — Cool-Season

Cool-Season Lawn Spring Startup

Dethatch if thatch layer exceeds 1/2"
Core aerate if soil is compacted — rent a core aerator
Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil reaches 55°F (when forsythia blooms) — prevents crabgrass; do NOT overseed at same time
Light balanced fertilizer application (avoid heavy nitrogen in spring)
Overseed bare or thin spots when soil is 50–65°F (skip if pre-emergent was applied)
Set mow height: 3–4" for tall fescue, 2.5–3.5" for bluegrass

Lawn — Warm-Season

Warm-Season Lawn Spring Startup

Wait until grass is actively greening before treating — premature treatment stresses dormant grass
Scalp lawn once fully green to remove dead winter blades
Apply pre-emergent when soil temperature hits 55°F
First fertilizer when grass is at least 50% green — use nitrogen-rich formula
Apply broadleaf herbicide for dandelions and clover once grass is fully active

Irrigation

Irrigation System Spring Startup

Slowly open main irrigation shut-off — open gradually to prevent water hammer
Walk each zone while running — look for broken heads, geysers, or heads not popping up
Adjust rotary head arc and radius as needed; replace cracked or damaged heads
Reprogram controller for spring schedule (typically 2–3 days/week)
Check backflow preventer for winter damage

Trees & Shrubs

Spring Tree & Shrub Care

Prune dead, crossing, or winter-damaged branches before new growth fills in
Prune spring-blooming shrubs (forsythia, lilac, azalea) AFTER they bloom
Prune summer-blooming shrubs (crape myrtle, roses, panicle hydrangea) before bud break
Fertilize trees and shrubs as they break bud — slow-release granular at drip line
Apply 2–4" mulch around trees/shrubs — keep 3–4" away from trunk
Check for scale insects and aphids on new growth — treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap

Garden

Garden Bed & Vegetable Prep

Turn compost pile; add finished compost to beds
Prepare vegetable beds — loosen, amend with compost, rake smooth
Plant cool-season crops when soil is above 40°F: peas, lettuce, spinach, kale, broccoli, onions
Start seeds indoors for warm-season crops 6–8 weeks before last frost
Check hoses, soaker hoses, and drip irrigation for winter damage

🌿

Late Spring

4–6 weeks after last frost · Typically May–June

Interior

🏠 Inside

HVAC · Cooling

AC Readiness Final Check

Run AC for a full cycle — confirm it cools to setpoint; listen for unusual sounds
Check condensate drain pan — should be dry and clean of algae
Set thermostat to summer schedule (78°F occupied, 82–85°F away)
Replace air filter if not done in early spring
Install window AC units; inspect for damage; clean filter before installing

Safety

Mid-Year Safety Check

Test all smoke detectors
Verify all egress windows open fully (required in all bedrooms)
Test GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchen, garage, and outdoor locations (TEST then RESET)
Confirm fire extinguisher is accessible and charged

Exterior

🌲 Outside

Deck & Fence

Deck Cleaning, Staining & Sealing

Pressure wash deck (1,200–1,500 PSI; spray with the grain); allow 48–72 hrs to dry before staining
Sand any raised grain or rough spots after washing and drying
Water bead test: if water soaks in within 10 minutes, deck needs sealing
Apply deck stain/sealer — penetrating oil-based stains last longer than film-forming products
Apply stain in shade or on a cloudy day to avoid lap marks
Stain/seal fence the same day as deck (same equipment, same cleanup)

Driveway

Driveway Sealing

Asphalt: apply sealer every 3–5 years (not annually — over-sealing causes peeling); fill cracks first
Concrete: apply penetrating silane/siloxane sealer every 3–5 years to repel water and road salts
Pressure wash before sealing

Exterior Paint & Caulk

Exterior Painting & Caulking

Ideal conditions: 50–85°F, no rain for 48 hours, humidity below 70%
Scrape loose or peeling paint; spot prime bare wood before topcoating
Re-caulk gaps at window frames, door frames, trim joints — use paintable siliconized acrylic caulk
Paint window sills, trim, and exposed wood as needed (full repaint every 7–10 years)
Homes built before 1978: follow EPA RRP guidelines for lead paint containment

Lawn & Garden

Late Spring Planting & Mulching

Plant warm-season transplants after all frost risk has passed: tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers
Install soaker hoses or drip irrigation in vegetable beds before mulching
Apply 2–3" mulch to all beds — retains moisture, suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature
Reduce fertilizer for cool-season lawns — they slow naturally in heat
Apply full fertilizer as warm-season grass enters peak growth
Trim lawn edges along walkways and beds

☀️

Summer

June – August

Interior

🏠 Inside

HVAC · Cooling

Cooling System Monthly Monitoring

Check and replace air filter monthly during peak cooling season
Check condensate drain pan monthly — standing water means a clogged drain; flush with diluted bleach
Listen for unusual sounds — rattling, squealing, or short-cycling warrant a service call
Check window AC drain holes in back are clear; clean filter bi-weekly
Pro Req'd If slow to cool: check refrigerant lines for ice buildup — indicates low refrigerant (call HVAC tech)

Plumbing

Summer Plumbing Awareness

Monitor water usage for sudden spikes — may indicate running toilet, irrigation leak, or supply line leak
Check water softener salt level; look for salt bridges (hardened crust) in brine tank
If water smells or tastes different: retest for bacterial contamination — summer heat increases risk in wells

Septic System

Septic System Monitoring

Pro Req'd Schedule pump-out if it has been 3–5 years since the last one
Watch for warning signs: slow drains, gurgling sounds, sewage odor outdoors, soggy drain field
Avoid parking over or planting trees on the drain field

Exterior

🌲 Outside

Lawn

Summer Lawn Care

Raise mowing height by 1/2"–1" in summer — taller grass shades roots and retains moisture
Water deeply and infrequently: 1" per week total; water at dawn to minimize evaporation
Allow cool-season lawns to slow or partially go dormant in peak heat
Apply second fertilizer to warm-season grasses in June
Watch for summer fungal diseases (brown circles, dollar spot) — treat with appropriate fungicide

Irrigation

Irrigation Monthly Monitoring

Adjust controller monthly as rainfall and temperatures change — do not set-and-forget
Walk each zone monthly — look for dry spots, soggy areas, or heads damaged by mower
Check drip emitters in planting beds — they clog easily in hard water; clean or replace
Water in early morning (4–8 AM) for maximum efficiency

Trees

Tree & Shrub Drought Care

Deep water trees during drought — slow trickle for 1–2 hours at the drip line
Newly planted trees (within 3 years): water weekly during drought
Watch for early fall coloring in August — often indicates drought stress

Pest Control

Summer Pest Management

Eliminate standing water weekly; apply barrier spray to shrubs and lawn edges every 3 weeks for mosquitoes
Check for and treat hornets' nests in eaves, under decks, in ground holes — treat in early morning
Watch for Japanese beetle emergence (late June/July) — handpick or treat with neem oil or carbaryl
Apply preventive grub control (imidacloprid) in June–July — prevents fall lawn damage
Test pool/spa water chemistry weekly; clean filter monthly

🍂

Late Summer / Early Fall

August – September

Interior

🏠 Inside

HVAC · Heating Prep

Heating System Tune-Up & Transition

Pro Req'd Schedule professional furnace/boiler tune-up before heating season — book now before schedules fill
Replace air filter before heating season starts
Turn heat on for a test run before you need it — confirm all zones heat; note unusual sounds or smells
Bleed hot water radiators: with heat fully up, open bleed valve until water (not air) flows out; check pressure after
Confirm heat pump switches to heating mode; check that emergency heat strip operates
Vacuum electric baseboard fins; confirm all clearances are maintained
Pro Req'd Schedule direct-vent heater annual cleaning: combustion chamber, burner, flue, photocell, fuel filter
Replace thermostat batteries; update programming for fall/winter schedule

HVAC · Oil Burner Service

Annual Oil Burner Service

Pro Req'd Schedule annual oil burner tune-up with a licensed HVAC technician before the heating season
Technician replaces: fuel oil nozzle (sized to your system BTU rating); fuel filter at the burner; clean heat exchanger and firebox of soot and carbon deposits
Technician inspects and adjusts: electrodes and ignition assembly; performs combustion efficiency test (CO₂ percentage, flue temperature, smoke number)
Technician also inspects: flue pipe and draft; fuel line connections for leaks; oil pump strainer
DIY-feasible: the inline sediment filter on the supply line from the tank can be replaced annually by a handy homeowner — shut off supply valve, swap filter, check for drips at new filter connections
Check fuel tank for water accumulation — a biocide/demulsifier fuel additive prevents microbial growth that clogs nozzles

HVAC · UV Light System

Air Handler UV Lamp Annual Replacement

Replace germicidal UV-C lamp annually — output degrades significantly after 9,000–12,000 hours even when the lamp still visually appears on
Turn off system and allow lamp to cool completely before handling — UV-C light is hazardous to eyes and skin; never look directly at an operating lamp
Wipe quartz sleeve with isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free cloth — skin oils and dust reduce UV transmission significantly
Inspect quartz sleeve for cracks or etching — replace sleeve if damaged (typically every 2–3 years)
Confirm indicator light or UV monitor display shows the unit is operational after installing the new lamp
Log the replacement date — replace on a fixed annual schedule regardless of lamp appearance

HVAC · Humidifier

Whole-House Humidifier Pre-Season Prep

Clean drum or reservoir; check float and solenoid valve operation
Install new water panel/evaporator pad for the heating season
Open humidifier water supply valve (closed during summer)
Set humidistat to 35% RH to start; adjust down in very cold weather to prevent window condensation

Fireplace & Chimney

Annual Chimney Inspection & Sweep

Pro Req'd Schedule annual chimney inspection and sweep with a CSIA-certified chimney sweep — book early
Inspect damper from firebox — should open and close fully; check for rust or debris
Stock firewood: only well-seasoned hardwood (dried 6+ months); store elevated and away from house
Inspect gas fireplace flue for debris or bird/wasp nests; check glass seal and igniter

Weatherization

Fall Weatherstripping & Air Sealing

Check weatherstripping on all exterior doors — close on a piece of paper; if it slides out easily, replace
Replace damaged door sweeps on all exterior doors
Inspect and add insulated cover to attic hatch/pull-down stairs if not already installed
Seal new penetrations (cable, conduit, plumbing) with fire-rated foam
Add foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plate covers on exterior walls

Pest Control

Rodent & Pest Exclusion

Seal any gap larger than 1/4" at foundation, sill plates, and utility penetrations (copper mesh + foam; mice enter through a dime-sized hole)
Check garage door bottom seal — replace if gaps are visible when closed
Move firewood storage away from house and off the ground onto a rack
Check dryer vent, exhaust terminations, and crawlspace vents for damaged screens

Exterior

🌲 Outside

Roof & Gutters

Pre-Fall Roof & Gutter Inspection

Inspect roof before fall rains — look for loose shingles, open flashing, or deteriorated caulk at penetrations
Mid-season gutter clean — remove summer seed pods and debris before main leaf fall
Re-secure any loose gutter sections; check all connections to fascia
Note heavy granule accumulation in splash blocks — indicates aging shingles approaching end of life

Trees

Tree Hazard Assessment

Identify branches over the house, power lines, or driveway that are dead, split, or weakly attached
Pro Req'd Have a certified arborist assess any tree you are unsure about before fall windstorm season
Begin planting bare-root trees and shrubs as they go dormant — fall planting establishment is excellent

Lawn — Fall Renovation

Cool-Season Lawn Fall Renovation

Core aerate lawn — the single best practice for cool-season lawn health; best done in early fall
Overseed immediately after aeration — seed falls into holes; use species appropriate for sun/shade
Apply fall fertilizer — higher potassium for root development and winter hardiness
Keep new seed moist: water lightly 2–3x daily until germination
Plant spring-flowering bulbs (tulips, daffodils, crocus) when soil cools below 60°F
Reduce fertilizer on warm-season lawns; allow grass to harden off for winter

🍁

Before First Frost

Triggered: 2–3 weeks before your region's first frost

Interior

🏠 Inside

Plumbing · Winterization

Interior Plumbing Winterization

Turn off interior shut-off valves for all outdoor hose bibs
After closing interior valve, open outdoor bib fully to drain — leave open all winter
Disconnect and drain all garden hoses before storing
Install foam insulator covers on exterior hose bibs as secondary protection
Note pipes in unheated spaces — plan heat tape installation if a pipe has frozen before

Safety

Winter Safety Preparation

Test smoke and CO detectors; replace all batteries for a fresh year
Check fire extinguisher charge — inspect gauge; service if needle is outside green zone
Post emergency contacts: gas company, fuel supplier, electrician, plumber
Ensure emergency supplies are on hand: flashlights, batteries, water, battery radio, first aid kit
Test generator to ensure it starts; add fresh stabilized fuel

Exterior

🌲 Outside

Irrigation

Irrigation System Winterization — Blow-Out

Blow out irrigation system with compressed air (min 20 CFM at 50 PSI) — run each zone 2–3 passes
Wear safety glasses during blow-out; never stand over heads during the process
Close main irrigation shut-off; set controller to off or freeze mode
Drain and insulate backflow preventer if above ground
Flush, drain, and disconnect drip system components for winter storage

Lawn & Garden

Pre-Frost Garden Cleanup

Harvest remaining vegetables before first frost; pull and compost annual plants after frost
Cut back perennials to 2–6" after frost, or leave seed heads for winter wildlife interest
Apply 3–4" winter mulch over perennial crowns after ground begins to freeze
Final lawn mow: cut cool-season grass to 2.5–3" for winter
Apply winterizing fertilizer to cool-season lawns if not done in early fall
Store empty ceramic/terracotta pots indoors — they crack from freeze-thaw cycles
Dig and store tender bulbs (cannas, dahlias, gladiolus) after frost blackens foliage

Outdoor Equipment

Outdoor Living Winterization

Store outdoor cushions indoors — weatherproof fabrics still degrade faster stored wet and frozen
Store or cover outdoor furniture with fitted covers
Clean and cover gas grill; disconnect propane and store cylinder upright in a ventilated area (never indoors)
Drain all garden hoses; coil and store — standing water causes cracking
Drain portable gas-powered equipment fuel or add stabilizer before storage
Service lawn mower: change oil, clean or replace blade, run carb dry or add stabilizer
Test snow blower; check belts and auger; stock extra shear bolts

Trees & Landscape

Pre-Winter Tree & Landscape Protection

Wrap young thin-barked trees (maple, cherry, serviceberry) with tree wrap — remove in spring
Install deer fencing or repellent on vulnerable plants if deer pressure is high in your area
Loosely tie arborvitae and columnar shrubs with twine to prevent snow splitting branches
Apply anti-desiccant spray to broadleaf evergreens (rhododendron, boxwood, holly)
Stack and cover firewood away from house; elevated on a rack; cover top only for airflow

Well & Septic

Well & Septic Pre-Winter Check

Ensure well house/pump is insulated for winter; confirm heat tape is plugged in if installed
Confirm well cap is sealed before fall rains
Mark septic tank lid and drain field with stakes before snow covers the yard
Pro Req'd Schedule septic pump-out if overdue — frozen ground makes winter pumping difficult or impossible

🍃

Late Fall

After first frost — before hard freeze

Interior

🏠 Inside

Water Heater

Water Heater Annual Service

Flush sediment from tank: attach hose to drain valve; flush 2–3 gallons or until clear
Test TPR valve — lift lever briefly; replace if it does not seat fully after testing
Check anode rod every 2–3 years — replace if under 1/2" diameter or heavily corroded
Set water heater temperature to 120°F
Descale tankless heat exchanger annually in hard water areas; clean inlet filter screen

Attic & Insulation

Pre-Winter Attic Air Sealing

Confirm attic hatch has insulated cover installed — one of the highest heat-loss points in the home
Air seal top plate penetrations: pipes, wires, recessed lights — use fire-rated caulk or intumescent foam
Verify both soffit vents and ridge vent are open — critical for preventing moisture and ice dams
Confirm bathroom exhaust fans vent all the way to exterior (not just into attic space)
Check kitchen exhaust fan damper closes fully — a stuck-open damper allows cold air infiltration

Basement & Crawlspace

Pipe Insulation & Final Basement Check

Wrap exposed water pipes in unheated spaces with foam pipe insulation — especially near exterior walls
Install heat tape on any pipe that has frozen in previous winters
Close crawlspace foundation vents for winter
Check sump pump and battery backup before heavy winter rains
Inspect for new cracks that formed during fall freeze-thaw cycles

Exterior

🌲 Outside

Gutters

Final Gutter Cleaning — Most Critical of the Year

Wait until all or nearly all leaves have fallen — then do one thorough cleaning
Remove all leaves, seed pods, and debris; flush with hose; confirm full downspout flow
Re-secure any hangers that pulled away from fascia during the season
Check and clear debris from all downspout splash blocks

Foundation

Final Foundation Inspection Before Freeze

Walk perimeter one final time — seal new cracks before water infiltrates and freeze-thaw cycles enlarge them
Use hydraulic cement for active masonry cracks; polyurethane injection for structural cracks
Clear all window wells; confirm drainage is adequate
Confirm downspout extensions direct water well away from the foundation

Yard Cleanup

Final Yard Cleanup

Remove leaf accumulation from lawn — thick mats smother grass and harbor disease over winter
Mulching mow light leaf coverage; remove heavy complete mats by bagging or raking
Clean garden tools: remove soil, oil metal and wooden surfaces, sharpen blades; hang properly
Empty and drain rain barrels before a hard freeze
Final lawn mower service before storage: change oil; stabilize or drain fuel

📋

Year-Round Tasks

Monthly · Quarterly · Semi-Annual · Annual

Monthly

HVAC Filter Check / Replacement

1"–2" pleated filters: replace monthly during heavy use; every 2–3 months in mild seasons
4"–5" media filters: replace every 3–6 months
Electronic air cleaners: clean collector cells quarterly per manufacturer instructions

Monthly

Safety Device Monthly Test

Press test button on all smoke detectors until alarm sounds
Test all CO detectors
Confirm fire extinguisher gauge needle is in the green zone

Monthly

Monthly Plumbing Visual Check

Check under all sinks for drips, staining, or soft cabinet bottoms
Check around base of all toilets for moisture
Run water in infrequently used drains to keep P-traps full and prevent sewer gas
Pour a cup of water down floor drains (basement, garage, laundry)

Monthly

Garage Door Safety Test

Auto-reverse test: place a 2x4 flat on the floor; door should reverse when it contacts it
Photo-eye test: wave a broom handle through beam while door is closing — door should reverse
Visually check cables and rollers for fraying or damage — do not adjust springs yourself

Monthly

Pool & Hot Tub Monthly Maintenance

Test water chemistry weekly — balance pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness
Clean filter monthly (backwash sand filter; rinse cartridge filter)
Check water level; inspect pump and skimmer baskets

Quarterly

Range Hood Filter Cleaning

Remove metal mesh grease filters; soak in hot water with degreaser or run through dishwasher on hot cycle
Check exterior vent flap — opens when fan runs, closes fully when stopped; clean grease buildup

Quarterly

Water Softener & Filter Maintenance

Check water softener salt level; add when below half; break up any salt bridge in brine tank
Replace whole-house sediment filters on schedule (typically every 3–6 months)
Replace under-sink or refrigerator water filters (most are 6-month or 200-gallon cycles)

Quarterly

GFCI Outlet Testing

Press TEST on all GFCI outlets (bathrooms, kitchen, garage, exterior, basement) — outlet loses power; press RESET to restore
Any GFCI that does not respond is failed or miswired — replace or call an electrician

Semi-Annual

Wet Area Caulk Inspection

Inspect tub, shower, and shower pan caulk — re-caulk any gaps with 100% silicone bathroom caulk
Check kitchen sink caulk at the countertop edge
Inspect around bathroom fixtures at floor level

Annual

Dryer Vent Full Cleaning

Disconnect dryer; clean entire duct with flexible dryer vent brush kit from dryer to exterior termination
Check exterior vent flap — opens when dryer runs, closes fully when stopped; clean of lint
Replace any plastic flexible duct with rigid or semi-rigid metal duct (plastic duct is a fire hazard)

Annual

Garage Door Annual Service

Lubricate rollers, hinges, tracks, and torsion spring with silicone or lithium-based lubricant
Balance test: disconnect opener; lift door to waist height and release — it should stay in place without drifting
Pro ⚠ Do NOT adjust torsion springs yourself — extreme tension causes serious injuries; call a garage door professional

Annual

Annual Well Water Test

Annual minimum: total coliform bacteria, E. coli, nitrates, pH
Regional additions: arsenic (New England, western US), radon (New England), lead, manganese, iron
Use a state-certified laboratory — contact your county extension office for a local contaminant list

Annual

UV Water Sanitation System Annual Service

Replace UV-C lamp annually — output drops significantly after 9,000 hours even when the lamp still appears to be glowing
Turn system off and unplug before servicing — UV-C light causes serious eye and skin injury; never look at an operating lamp
Remove quartz sleeve; soak in white vinegar or citric acid solution for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral scale; rinse thoroughly — scale dramatically reduces UV transmission
Inspect quartz sleeve for scratches, etching, or cracks — replace sleeve every 2–3 years or if damaged
Inspect and replace upstream sediment pre-filter on schedule — turbid water blocks UV energy and renders the system ineffective
Test system alarm or indicator light after reassembly to confirm the unit is detecting lamp operation
Log the service date — replace on a fixed annual schedule regardless of lamp appearance

Annual

Septic Annual Inspection

Pro Annual inspection by a licensed professional: check baffles, scum and sludge levels, distribution box, and drain field condition
Pump tank every 3–5 years depending on household size and tank capacity (professional required)
Maintain a site map showing tank and drain field location for service access

Annual

Electrical Panel Visual Inspection

Open panel cover — look for warm breakers, burn marks, double-tapped breakers, corrosion, or unusual smell
Verify all circuits are labeled; label any that are not
Do NOT touch wiring inside the panel — call a licensed electrician for any concerns found

Annual

Generator Annual Service

Change oil, replace spark plug, check and clean air filter
Load test under real or simulated load for at least 30 minutes
Flush old fuel and replace with fresh stabilized fuel if the unit was not used regularly

Annual

Solar Panel Annual Check

Clean panels with soft brush and water rinse annually (or more often in dusty or high-pollen areas)
Monitor inverter output through the app for unexpected drops indicating a failed panel or inverter

Annual

Radon Mitigation System Check

Pro Check manometer (U-shaped tube with liquid) — if the liquid levels are equal, the fan has failed; call a qualified mitigator

Annual

Central Vacuum Annual Service

Empty canister when 2/3 full; clean or replace filter annually
Inspect and clear any blockages in wall inlets

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Annual HomeMaintenance Plan

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Annual Home
Maintenance Plan