SmartHomeOwners

If you recently bought a home or just want to start keeping tabs on home maintenance, then in doing so you can prolong the life of expensive appliances, plumbing, wiring, and other items in your home.  Certain items should be checked or maintained on a yearly basis.  Here's an annual checkup schedule to get started.

1.  Windows, Locks and Security

Be sure your home remains secure by inspecting all window locks, door locks and your security system.  It would be terrible if someone burglarizes your home, and then you discover that your alarm system is not working.  Make sure windows are secured and have not been tampered with.

2.  Lawn Maintenance Equipment

Check your lawn maintenance equipment such as the lawnmower, electric hedge trimmers, weedeater, etc. to make sure they are working efficiently.  You can change spark plugs, clean out debris from the fuel tank, sharpen the blades, add new oil, and check all wire connections and knobs for looseness.

3.  Spray for Insects

Right before summer arrives, spray your home inside and out for insects.  You should spray all around siding corners, windows and doors on the outside.  Also spray around your home's foundation and inside the basement and attic.  In the living areas, use a safe indoor bug/spider pesticide to spray on baseboards, in and under cabinets, behind appliances, etc.  You might have to spray once more before summer's end, but do it at least once before the summer insects arrive!

4.  Appliances

Inspect your appliances to ensure they are working properly.  Clean all vents and vacuum the back of your refrigerator if dusty.  Have your water heater inspected by a professional plumber if possible.

5.  Outdoor Wooden Structures

Check outdoor wooden structures such as wood columns, a wood porch or patio, wood walkways, etc. for signs of decay or turning of color.  Some wood needs to be treated every couple of years to stay looking new.

6.  Basement and Attic

Check the basement and attic for any signs of moisture or mildew.  Look for signs of rodents and any points of entry where they may enter your house.  In the basement, notice if there are cracks in the foundation, and fill and seal these immediately.

7.  Main Filters

Check all main filters for central heating and air systems as well as water filters.  Some have filters that should be changed every couple of months while others have a large filter that may last a year or so.  Ask your heating/air installer how and when to change all filters.

8.  Water/Sewer Inspections

It's a good idea to have a plumber come out and inspect your plumbing once a year.  Ask him to inspect everything from faucets to pipes under the house to water heater lines.  Some plumbers can even check gas water heater lines.  If you inspect them on your own, look for leaky areas or loose fittings.  Check your water meter, well pump and septic tank to ensure all are working properly.  You should have your septic tank pumped every few years (depending on its size and age).

9.  Fire Prevention

Test batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.  Also, make sure all fire extinguishers are working properly.  Check your home inside and out for possible fire hazards. 

10.  Prepare for Winter

As cooler weather arrives, it's a good idea to drain all water hoses and outdoor faucets to prevent damage from freezing.  Also, remove or cover any window unit air conditioners.  If you have a fireplace, have it cleaned and checked for animals, debris, etc.  Change all heating filters, and even drain your hot water heater if necessary.  Also, trim branches away from your home's roof as fall arrives.

With this yearly home maintenance list, you can save yourself many dollars down the road by keeping your home in tip-top shape!