basic care maintenance schedule
Winterizing Your Home
Each fall you should perform the following checks to ensure your home is prepared for the onset of cold weather.
• Furnace: Forced air systems: check or replace filters. - Cycle the furnace to be sure it operates.
• Plumbing: Drain water from exterior faucets and pipes. Store hoses and remove from faucets.
• Windows & Doors: Check sashes and frames repair or replace weather stripping and caulking.
• Gutters & Downspouts: Check for and remove leaves and other debris that might cause clogs.
• Sashes and Doors: If insulated glass fogs, replace it.
• Fill settled areas and depressions around the foundation to maintain proper slope for drainage.
• Asphalt or concrete driveway - treat as necessary, repairing cracks.
January – February
Clean or replace furnace filter.
Check and clean ventilation systems for Microhood and bath fans. Check your manual and follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
Clean snow from air intakes, exhausts and meters.
Remove excess snow from roof to prevent ice dams.
Clean and check sump pump and pit.
Inspect pressure and temperature valve on water heater (recommendations and safety needs).
Clean faucet aerators and turn on infrequently used faucets and put water in floor drains to maintain the trap’s water barrier
Observe humidity levels and aggressively use bath fans and Microhood fans to rid home of excess moisture as needed to eliminate condensation or frost on windows
March – April
Clean or replace furnace filter.
Check and clean ventilation systems for Microhood and bath fans. Check your manual and follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
Clean snow from air intakes, exhausts and meters.
Remove excess snow from roof to prevent ice dams.
Check gutters and downspouts and clean if needed.
Inspect basement space for seepage/leakage.
Do safety checks: smoke detectors, fire escape routes, fire extinguisher, carbon monoxide alarms, door and window locks. Replace Batteries o Check and repair any damaged screens.
Adjust thermostat for seasonal change.
Observe humidity levels and aggressively use bath fans and Microhood fans to rid home of excess moisture as needed to eliminate condensation or frost on windows
May - June
Check and clean ventilation systems for Microhood and bath fans. Check your manual and follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
Clear air intakes, exhaust and meters of debris, nests, etc.
Check gutters and downspouts and clean if needed.
Be sure to check settling after spring thaw.
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 or furnace filters monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Clean A/C condenser.
Inspect pressure and temperature valve on water heater.
Maintain proper grades for drainage throughout the property. o Inspect roof for damage and make repairs when necessary.
July – August
Clear air intakes, exhaust and meters of debris, nests, etc.
Check gutters and downspouts and clean if needed.
Check exterior finishes for moisture damage.
Check and clean ventilation systems for Microhood and bath fans. Check your manual and follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
Air out damp basements on dry days or use dehumidifier (suggested).
Have furnace (heating system) serviced.
Check hot water heater for mineral buildup, drain, and refill.
Check and repair interior caulking and grout on tile in showers and baths.
Check and repair all cracked, separated or missing exterior caulking and weather stripping, especially around windows and entry doors. Use astm c-920 sealant.
Replace air filters as recommended by the manufacturer. o Clean A/C condenser.
September – October
Check fireplace and chimney, service or clean if needed.
Check and clean ventilation systems for Microhood and bath fans. Check your manual and follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
Clear air intakes, exhaust and meters of debris, nests, etc.
Do safety checks: smoke detectors, fire escape routes, fire extinguisher, carbon monoxide alarms, door and window locks. o Check gutters and downspouts and clean if needed.
Check roofing and flashing and repair signs of wear or damage.
Check roof vents/soffit vents.
Drain and close outside hose connection. o Winterize landscaping.
Inspect pressure and temperature valve on water heater.
Maintain proper grades for drainage throughout the property.
Adjust thermostat for season change.
Check humidity levels to prevent excessive moisture.
Clean dryer vent.
Check garage floor for cracks – seal & caulk.
November – December
Check and clean ventilation systems for Microhood and bath fans. Check your manual and follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
Clean or replace furnace filter.
Clear air intakes, exhausts and meters of snow, debris, etc.
Remove excess snow from roof to prevent ice dams.
Check adjustment of door thresholds.
Observe humidity levels and aggressively use bath fans and Microhood fans to rid home of excess moisture as needed to eliminate condensation or frost on windows