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Winter is here! As cozy as the season can be, it's also tough on homes. A key to protecting the investment you’ve made in your home is by following a regular maintenance schedule. By performing preventative maintenance on an on-going basis, you’ll avoid many of the big ticket repair items that can lower the value of your home. 

Here are helpful checklists for monthly and fall/winter maintenance tips. 

Monthly

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Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector.

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Check the filters on your heating and cooling systems.  Be sure to clean and change according to the manufacturer’s schedule.

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If you have a humidifier or an electronic air filter, check these as well.  

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Check faucets for drips.  Check plumbing for leaks.

Inside

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Test heating system. Replace air filters and ensure your furnace is functioning properly. Consider servicing your HVAC system for peak performance. Schedule a chimney sweep to remove creosote buildup and ensure your fireplace is safe to use. Always use a screen to catch sparks and never leave a fire unattended. 

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Consult your owner’s manual for your hot water heater.  Most recommend draining a dishpan full of water from the clean-out valve at the bottom of your hot water tank to control sediment build-up to maintain its efficiency.

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Check all fire extinguishers. Recharge or replace as necessary.

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Review family’s escape and preparedness plans for fire and natural disaster.  

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Check locks on doors and windows to ensure they are functioning properly.

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Make sure the basement floor drain’s trap contains water.  Refill as necessary.

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Throughout the winter, watch for excessive moisture build-up.  Take necessary action whenever excessive build-up exists to prevent future maintenance and health problems.  (For example, excessive condensation on windows.)

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Test all faucets and monitor for signs of dripping.  Change washers as needed.  (If a faucet leak persists, it may need replacement.) Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements. Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to let warm air circulate.

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Check and clean drains in sinks, bathtubs, shower stalls and dishwasher. 

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Test all plumbing shut-off valves to ensure they are in proper working order.

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Monitor windows and doors for cold air leaks or ice accumulation. Check for drafts and seal them with weather stripping or caulking to keep heat inside and save on energy bills. Note any problems for  repair or replacement in the spring. 

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Check attic for frost accumulation.  If there is excessive accumulation, it may require repair. 

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Before installing indoor or outdoor seasonal lights, check all electrical cords, plugs and outlets for signs of wear.  Test cords and plugs, if they feel warm to the touch or show any signs of wear, replace immediately. 

Outside

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Test all outside lights and timers to make sure they are functioning properly. Stock-up on ice melt and keep your walkaways and driveway clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents. Trim tree branches near power lines to avoid outages during storm. 

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Before installing indoor or outdoor seasonal lights, check all electrical cords, plugs and outlets for signs of wear.  Test cords and plugs, if they feel warm to the touch or show any signs of wear, replace immediately. 

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Inspect the roof and gutters. Remove debris from gutters to precent ice dams and water damage. Check for missing or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks. If there is excessive staining or frost on the roof’s underside or excessive ice accumulation on the roof itself, it may require repair.