Your Seasonal Homeowner’s Maintenance Checklist to Live in A Winter Wonderland

Lee Wetherington designs structurally convenient and customizable homes crafted to meet your every need and desire. We strive to make the “difference” in your role as a homeowner from contracting construction to seamless, everyday living. And yes, that includes homeowner maintenance too. We understand that the last thing you want to do this holiday season is stress about your water heater, especially as the temperatures cool down. So, we’ve gathered some highly recommended house maintenance tips to keep everything in order for the new year. Consider this your checklist for the winter season, and like a jolly someone we know – you might want to check it twice. Monthly

• Clean or replace air conditioning filters. If you have an energy recovery system (air exchange system), remember that these filters also need to be cleaned or replaced.
• Flush all toilets and run water through all sinks, especially in bathrooms that are not used on a regular basis.
• Inspect, clean, or replace kitchen vent hood filters (non-charcoal filters).
• Check the water softener and replenish salt if necessary.
• Clean the garbage disposal by grinding ice cubes, then flushing with hot water and baking soda.
• Inspect electrical cords for wear.

Seasonally (Winter)

• Heating systems.
  • Check and change filters on your heating system, as filters need to be replaced anywhere from twice a year to once a month.
  • Keep the thermostat set at a steady temperature.
• Water systems.
  • Check water heater for leaks.
  • Inspect the roof, gutters, and downspouts for damage after storms.
  • Clean drains in sinks, tubs, showers, and dishwashers.
• Ventilation
  • Vacuum bathroom exhaust fan grill.
  • Vacuum lint from the dryer vent.
  • Vacuum refrigerator and freezer coils and empty and clean drip trays.

Annual

• Drain and refill your water heater(s). This may be necessary on a more frequent basis if you live in an area with extremely hard water.
• Inspect and test your water heater safety valve.
• Inspect your garage door(s), rails, and lock system; adjust and lubricate, as necessary. Consider changing your garage door opener code as a security precaution.
• Service your lawnmower and yard equipment (blowers, edgers, and trimmers).
• Inspect or have tested your home fire extinguishers.
• Replace smoke alarm batteries.

Whether you’re a new or established Lee Wetherington homeowner, we recommend these practices to keep your home as inviting as the day you walked in. For more suggestions, check out the following articles on annual homeowner maintenance. Better Homes & Garden New York Times The Spruce