# Home Maintenance Checklist by Season — free download from DollarWise (dollarwise.xyz)

Work through one season's list each quarter. Check off each task as you finish it.

## Spring

1. Inspect the roof for winter damage: missing shingles, cracked flashing, clogged valleys.
2. Clean gutters and downspouts; confirm water flows away from the foundation.
3. Service the air conditioner: replace filters, clean coils, test before the heat arrives.
4. Check exterior paint and siding for peeling, cracks, or rot.
5. Inspect window screens and repair or replace torn mesh.
6. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries.
7. Flush the water heater and check for leaks or rust at the base.
8. Inspect the attic for leaks, pests, and blocked vents.
9. Service lawn equipment: sharpen mower blades, change oil, replace spark plugs.
10. Check outdoor faucets and irrigation for freeze damage before first use.
11. Reseal driveway and walkway cracks before summer heat widens them.
12. Deep-clean dryer vent from the dryer to the exterior wall.

## Summer

1. Clean or replace HVAC filters monthly during heavy use.
2. Inspect and clean ceiling fans; reverse direction to counterclockwise.
3. Check the basement and crawl space for moisture, mold, or musty smells.
4. Inspect decks and fences: tighten fasteners, reseal wood, check for rot.
5. Clean kitchen exhaust hood filters and check the vent path.
6. Test the garage door auto-reverse safety feature.
7. Inspect caulking around windows, doors, and bathrooms; re-caulk where cracked.
8. Drain and flush outdoor water features or fountains.
9. Check the water heater temperature setting (120 F / 49 C is the safe target).
10. Trim trees and shrubs away from the house, roof, and power lines.

## Fall

1. Service the furnace or heating system before the first cold snap.
2. Clean gutters and downspouts again after leaves drop.
3. Inspect the roof once more before winter weather sets in.
4. Seal gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk.
5. Drain and shut off outdoor faucets; store hoses indoors.
6. Winterize irrigation and sprinkler systems.
7. Have the chimney inspected and cleaned before first fireplace use.
8. Test the sump pump by pouring water into the pit.
9. Reverse ceiling fans to clockwise at low speed for winter.
10. Check attic insulation depth and top up where thin.
11. Stock winter supplies: ice melt, shovels, emergency kit.
12. Inspect the water heater anode rod if it is over 3 years old.

## Winter

1. Keep the thermostat at a steady temperature; never let pipes freeze.
2. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls during extreme cold.
3. Let faucets drip slightly when temperatures drop below 20 F (-7 C).
4. Check for ice dams on the roof after heavy snow; clear safely from the ground.
5. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors again mid-season.
6. Inspect the attic after storms for leaks or wind damage.
7. Keep gutters clear of ice buildup where safely reachable.
8. Run ceiling fans on low in reverse to push warm air down.
9. Check basement humidity; run a dehumidifier if above 60 percent.
10. Review your home emergency kit and restock anything used in fall.