Home Maintenance Checklist

To Do:

  • Check furnace filter every 3 months.

    Furnace filters trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles. A dirty filter restricts airflow and causes the furnace to work harder, which increases energy bills. Restricted airflow can overheat the furnace or strain components like the blower motor. If you have multiple pets, you may want to change it more than every 3 months. Changing your furnace filter regularly keeps the air clean, saves energy, prevents costly repairs, and protects the health of everyone in the home.

    💡Tip: Set an automatic reminder so you don’t have to try to remember when to change these. Also set a yearly reminder to change the smoke alarm batteries so you don’t wake up one night to them chirping when the batteries get low. :)


  • Set furnace fan to “ON” for improved air circulation and filtration.

    This uses more energy, but eliminates way more dust and allergens, and will also keep your home’s temperature more uniform across rooms.

    💡Tip: In wintertime, change the direction of your ceiling fans for improved air circulation without a cool breeze blowing on you.

  • Run bath fans after showering, and open curtains and blinds.

    Running bath fans will reduce excess moisture in your home, which will prevent mold and mildew. It’s also important to open curtains and blinds periodically. If you leave them closed all the time, it can trap condensation and lead to mold, mildew, and wood/window damage. Condensation forms when warm, moist air hits a cold surface (like a window). Opening blinds allows airflow and heat to reach the window, which reduces trapped moisture and prevents mold.

  • Remember to disconnect exterior hoses and shut off bibs to avoid a frozen, broken pipe. ❄️

    Water left in exterior pipes and hoses can freeze and as the ice expands inside the pipe, it creates pressure that can crack or burst the pipe. Disconnect hoses completely, and turn off the indoor shut-off valve for the outdoor faucet.


    Does your home have a well, and a septic system?

  • Change your well water filter if you notice a change in water pressure, and get your water tested yearly for peace of mind.

    A drop in water pressure usually means the filter is clogged with sediment or debris. This is the main signal that it’s time to replace it.

  • Have your septic system inspected and pumped every year.

    Frequent pumping reduces risk of system failure and backups. Although it’s not required to be pumped every year, we think it’s good practice to have an inspection, and get it pumped yearly to catch any potential issues early on.





abby marten