Review Your Emergency Supplies
Another one that could – it’s a slim chance something would happen, but still – save your life. Peek at flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and first aid.
Track Electricity Costs
Keep an eye on your power bill so nothing sneaks up on you. It’s the easiest way to catch wasteful energy habits- and mistakes on the part of the company.
Flush Toilets in Unused Rooms
Yep, no-one likes to pay much attention to the toilet, but flushing regularly keeps seals from drying out and prevents nasty smells from seeping in.
Clean Fridge Kickplate
Dust loves to collect under there, making your fridge work overtime. Bring out your vacuum!
Check Under Sinks for Leaks
Even tiny drips add up to water damage and higher bills. Catch them before they spread.
Walk Your Property Line
Take a quick lap around your yard. You might spot leaning fences, broken branches, or other things that need your attention.
Vacuum Under Big Furniture
Sneaky dust piles up under couches and beds and it can get way out of hand. Just ask a sneezing person. A quick vacuum may help with allergies, though!
Test Your Sump Pump
Pour a bucket of water in to make sure it kicks on. Better to test than discover it’s dead during a storm.
Inspect Attic for Leaks
Yes, inspecting an attic is a pain. But it has to be done, or water damage could follow.
Trim Shrubs Around AC Unit
Your outdoor unit needs breathing room. Clearing plants and debris helps it run cooler and cuts down on energy use – and thus, your bills.
Clean Dishwasher Filter
Food gunk clogs up fast and smells terrible. Give your dishwasher some love and clean it!
Inspect Dryer Vent Outside
Lint buildup is a major fire risk that a lot of people don’t know about, but now you now. Make this inspection knowing your safety is at risk.
Test Smoke Detectors
Press that little button once a month. It’s annoying, but it could literally save your life in an emergency.
Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Just like smoke alarms, these need regular checks. Peace of mind takes about 10 seconds.
Clean the Garbage Disposal
Ice cubes and a little vinegar do wonders. Add some lemon slices if you want a nice smell!
Inspect Extension Cords
Look for fraying or damage. Bad cords are both a fire hazard and an expensive mistake waiting to happen.
Wipe Down Bathroom Vents
Dust and lint clogging them makes your fan less effective, but it’s really not hard to wipe them down.
Clean Range Hood Filters
Grease builds up fast, especially if you cook often. A quick soak in hot, soapy water keeps your kitchen safer.
Check HVAC Filters
Dirty filters force your system to work harder, driving up bills. Swap or clean them monthly for better airflow.
Organize Your Fridge
Noticed an unpleasant odor lurking around your fridge? Time to take everything out and check the use-by dates.
Inspect Automatic Garage Door
Test the sensors and safety reverse. It only takes a minute and it could prevent a serious accident.
Lubricate Garage Doors
This one’s easy and some find it fun. Spray the hinges, rollers, and tracks with silicone or lithium grease.
Clear Snow From Outside Vents
If you live in snowy areas, blockages can cause carbon monoxide buildup. You don’t need us to tell you how extremely dangerous this is.
Run Water in Guest Bathrooms
If you don’t use them often, running faucets keeps pipes from drying out and seals from cracking.
Clean Your Email Inbox
This isn’t strictly “home” maintenance, but the spirit is there. Clean out your email inbox every month to keep your digital life flowing smoothly.
Evaluate Your Finances
Take a mere 15 minutes per month to check accounts and monthly expenses. See a problem? Fix it!
Check Fire Extinguisher Gauge
Make sure the pressure needle is still in the green. A fire extinguisher shouldn’t be something you just buy and forget about.
Inspect Sinks and Tubs for Blockages
Run water and listen for gurgling. A mixture of baking soda and vinegar should take out most blockages.
Check Outdoor Lights
Burned-out bulbs around entryways and garages make your home less safe, and it doesn’t look very nice either.
Wipe Down Washer and Dryer Seals
Mold loves to grow on these, so you should clean them once a month at least.
Check Water Softener Salt
If you’ve got a water softener, top it up. Hard water can damage appliances and plumbing over time.
Wipe Kitchen Cabinet Doors
Greasy fingerprints and splatters sneak up fast, especially if you’ve got kids. A quick wipe is all you need for a nicer kitchen.
Sweep Porches and Entryways
A task people have done since the dawn of time. It keeps dirt from getting tracked inside and keeps your front entrance looking inviting.
Check Window Locks
Open and close each one. Stuck or broken locks make your home less secure without you even realizing it.
Make a Monthly Home Maintenance Calendar
Planning ahead now saves time later! Every month, write down what you’ve done and what’s due next.
