Home Maintenance Checklist

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Home Maintenance Checklist Appliance Hoses Replace standard hoses on washing machines, dishwashers and icemakers with flexible reinforced hoses available at home improvement stores. Consider replacing hoses every 5 years. Regularly inspect hoses for kinks, cracks and evidence of deterioration. Water Heaters Drain and clean the water heater as recommended by the manufacturer. Inspect your water heater annually for rust, cracks and leaks. Air Conditioners When turning on the air conditioner for the season and during monthly use, pour a cup of mild bleach solution down the drain line to reduce algae and mold. Check the drip pan under the evaporator coils monthly for standing water. Tubs, Showers And Sinks Cracks or mold on caulking may indicate the seal is no longer water tight. Remove old caulk, clean thoroughly and dry before applying new caulk. Never put new caulk over old caulk. Roofs If you can safely inspect your roof, look for cracked or missing shingles, rotted wood or exposed areas near vent pipes, chimneys and vents. If you are unable to get on your roof, hire an inspector or roofing company to check your roof annually. Use silicone caulk around chimneys, skylights and vents. Replace missing or damaged shingles and flashing. If you can get into your attic, examine your roof from underneath for signs of leaks. Gutters And Downspouts Clear gutters once or twice each year. Make sure downspouts are connected properly and carry water away from the foundation. Replace any deteriorating wood near gutters. Pipes Insulate pipes in attics, crawlspaces and outside the home that are susceptible to freezing. Seal gaps around outside pipes and faucets to maintain heating inside your home. Sump Pumps Protect your basement with a sump pump system that has back-up battery power. Periodically check the pump and clear away debris. Test the pump regularly as recommended by the manufacturer. Water Valves Make sure everyone in your household knows where the main water valve is and how to turn off the water. Before traveling, turn off the water at the main valve or at major appliances. Reminder: If you have a fire sprinkler system, shutting off the water at the main valve will deactivate the sprinkler system. Shower Pans If you are building or remodeling your home, consult with builders and your insurance company to choose the best type of water pan and installation method for your area. For existing homes, water pans eventually will fail as a result of water penetration through cracked tile grout or deteriorated caulk. Examine tiles, grout and caulk periodically for deterioration and have any damage repaired. Toilets Check and replace the fill valve or float if the toilet tank takes a long time to fill or runs constantly. Make sure children do not flush extra bathroom tissue or toys down the toilet.