Helpful Tools for Homeowners

Clean out the gutters and remove any debris
Vacuum the lint from the hose of your clothes dryer
Check windows and doors for leaks and replace weather stripping as needed
Check your chimney for any blockage from nests or other debris. Call a professional to ensure your fireplace is ready for winter
Replace furnace filters. Have a professional service your heating system every two years
Winterize your yard by draining and storing outdoor hoses, shutting off hose bibs and covering outdoor furniture, grills and fire pits. Prepare your garden for winter by cleaning up overgrown plants and bushes and protecting plants from cold temperatures
Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and replace batteries or devices if necessary

Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and replace batteries or devices if necessary
Change furnace filters. It is recommended to replace filters every three months
Vacuum the lint from the hose of your clothes dryer to avoid a fire hazard
Clean windows and make repairs to screens as needed
Clean out gutters and remove any leaves and debris that has accumulated during the winter. Check that downspouts are secure and draining properly
Inspect your roof for any areas that might need to be repaired after the winter months. This might be a task best suited for a professional
Test GFCI outlets throughout your home. These types of outlets are designed to protect you from severe or fatal electric shocks and typically found in bathrooms and kitchens. Make sure they are working properly and repair if needed
Repair and reseal any cracks in your driveway or sidewalk
Inspect trees surrounding your home and contact a tree service to remove any unsafe branches or dead trees to avoid damage to your home during strong storms
Uncover your outdoor furniture, grills and fire pits. Start your spring landscaping maintenance including fertilizing and removing debris from beds and gardens that have accumulated over the winter

Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and replace batteries or devices if necessary
Clean out refrigerator coils. If you are unsure how to do this, refer to your refrigerator manual for instructions
Change furnace filters. It is recommended to replace filters every three months
Clean and care for decking, patios and porches. Repaint or re-stain to help protect your decking. Replace any broken or rotted boards or railing
Power wash the exterior of your home including brick, stone, siding and windows
Test and lubricate garage doors if needed. Summer is also a perfect time to reorganize and eliminate the clutter in your garage as well
Remove shower-heads and clean them to remove any sediment buildup
Check dishwasher for any signs of leaks
Schedule a service call for a routine check of your heating system prior to the first cold day of fall
Replace flashlight batteries

Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and replace batteries or devices if necessary
Clean out refrigerator coils. If you are unsure how to do this, refer to your refrigerator manual for instructions
Change furnace filters. It is recommended to replace filters every 3 months
Vacuum dust and debris out of air registers
Drain your water heater to remove possible sediment build up and improve efficiency. Be cautious as water may be very hot
Check showers and tubs for caulking that might need to be replaced or repaired
Schedule a service call for a routine check of your air conditioning system. It is better to prepare early than finding out you have an issue when a hot day arrives
Check all faucets for signs of dripping or leaks and repair as needed
Check electrical plugs and cords, both indoor and outdoor, and replace if damaged or worn to improve fire safety for your home and family
Replace flashlight batteries

HELPFUL TOOLS FOR HOMEOWNERS