Annual Home Maintenance Schedule

Monthly Tasks (Year-Round)

• Replace HVAC air filter (or check and replace if dirty)
• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• Check and clean kitchen exhaust hood filter
• Run garbage disposal with ice cubes and citrus peels
• Check for plumbing leaks under sinks and around toilets
• Clean sink aerators and showerheads if water flow is reduced
• Inspect fire extinguisher pressure gauge
• Check garage door auto-reverse safety feature

January

• Inspect attic for ice dams and leaks after winter storms
• Check and reset GFCI outlets in bathrooms and kitchen
• Deep clean refrigerator and check door seals
• Review home inventory for insurance purposes
• Check batteries in all flashlights and emergency supplies
• Clean range hood and replace filter if needed

February

• Vacuum refrigerator coils for efficiency
• Check basement and crawl space for moisture or leaks
• Test sump pump (if applicable)
• Inspect windows for condensation or drafts
• Clean bathroom exhaust fan grilles
• Check water heater for leaks or corrosion

March - Spring Prep

• Schedule HVAC system tune-up before cooling season
• Clean gutters and downspouts thoroughly
• Inspect roof for winter damage (missing shingles, leaks)
• Check and clean window screens
• Test outdoor faucets for freeze damage
• Rake lawn and remove winter debris
• Prune trees and shrubs before spring growth
• Check grading around foundation (should slope away from house)

April

• Power wash siding, deck, and patio
• Inspect and repair deck or porch (check for loose boards, rot)
• Check exterior paint and caulking around windows/doors
• Service lawn mower and gardening equipment
• Clean and organize garage
• Fertilize lawn (if appropriate for your region)
• Plant spring gardens and flowers

May

• Clean and inspect outdoor condenser unit (AC)
• Replace weatherstripping around doors if worn
• Check attic ventilation for proper airflow
• Inspect foundation for cracks
• Clean dryer vent thoroughly from inside and outside
• Touch up exterior paint where needed
• Service or start sprinkler system

June - Summer Prep

• Inspect and clean window air conditioning units
• Check and repair door and window screens
• Clean and seal deck or patio
• Inspect basement for water intrusion before rainy season
• Check pool/spa equipment and chemistry (if applicable)
• Trim trees and shrubs away from house and roof
• Clean outdoor furniture

July

• Inspect and clean bathroom exhaust fans
• Check caulking in showers and tubs
• Test all GFCI outlets throughout the house
• Clean garbage disposal and drains
• Check ceiling fans and reverse if needed for summer
• Inspect siding for damage or holes (insects, woodpeckers)

August

• Deep clean carpets and upholstery
• Check and clean range hood filter
• Inspect attic insulation levels
• Test home security system
• Clean and organize utility room/laundry area
• Review and update home maintenance budget

September - Fall Prep

• Schedule furnace/heating system inspection and tune-up
• Clean gutters before fall leaves (and again after leaves fall)
• Check weatherstripping and caulking around windows/doors
• Drain and store garden hoses
• Winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems
• Apply fall fertilizer to lawn
• Seal driveway cracks before winter
• Store or cover outdoor furniture

October

• Have chimney inspected and cleaned (if applicable)
• Test heating system thoroughly before cold weather
• Reverse ceiling fan direction (clockwise for winter)
• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas
• Check windows and add plastic film if needed
• Clean leaves from gutters again (final time)
• Drain outdoor water features
• Service snow blower (if applicable)

November - Winter Prep

• Check attic for air leaks and add insulation if needed
• Stock up on ice melt and snow removal supplies
• Test generator (if applicable)
• Check door sweeps and install if needed
• Clean and inspect fireplace/wood stove
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses completely
• Apply winter fertilizer to lawn (if appropriate for region)

December

• Flush water heater to remove sediment buildup
• Test all fire extinguishers and replace if expired
• Review year's maintenance and repairs for tax records
• Plan next year's home improvement budget
• Check and organize holiday decorations safely
• Inspect electrical cords and outlets (especially with holiday lights)
• Update home inventory and take photos of valuables

Quarterly Tasks

Every 3 Months (March, June, September, December)

• Deep clean dryer vent and check for blockages
• Vacuum refrigerator coils
• Check water softener and add salt if needed
• Inspect fire extinguisher and test pressure
• Clean gutters (minimum twice per year, preferably four times)
• Test garage door safety features
• Inspect basement/crawl space for moisture and pests

Annual Tasks

Once Per Year

• Professional HVAC inspection and service (spring for AC, fall for heat)
• Professional chimney inspection and cleaning
• Septic system inspection/pumping (every 1-3 years depending on use)
• Well water testing (if applicable)
• Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Tree inspection by arborist (for large trees near house)
• Roof inspection by professional
• Termite inspection (in areas with termite activity)

Every 2-5 Years

• Replace smoke detector and CO detector batteries (or entire units if 10+ years old)
• Pressure wash and reseal deck or fence (every 2-3 years)
• Replace HVAC air filter if using long-life filters
• Professional duct cleaning (every 3-5 years)
• Exterior painting or staining (every 5-10 years depending on material)
• Replace water heater anode rod (every 2-5 years extends water heater life)