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HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
Keeping your home running smoothly often comes down to a steady rhythm of small, repeatable tasks that can help prevent bigger issues over time. Use the checklists below to help develop a house maintenance schedule and appliance care plan to help you get it all done.
MONTHLY HOME MAINTENANCE TASKS
Staying on top of monthly maintenance tasks can help your home run more smoothly and may help prevent small issues from turning into bigger ones. The tasks below can help you incorporate monthly maintenance tasks into your routine.
1. CHECK AIR FILTER, DETECTORS AND VENTS
You can help maintain your home’s air quality by taking a few minutes each month to check your HVAC air filter and replace it if it looks dirty. Then, inspect vents to make sure none are blocked with dust or debris. While you’re at it, use the “test” button on your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to make sure they’re working properly and replace any dead batteries.
2. CHECK CORNERS FOR DUST BUILDUP
Dust doesn’t just settle on line-of-sight surfaces, it can also collect in corners, on baseboards, on molding and potentially affect the air quality in your home. Inspecting these areas monthly can help you spot buildup early so you can wipe, vacuum or dust it away before it spreads.
3. CLEAN RUGS, CURTAINS AND OTHER DAILY USE FABRIC
Fabrics like rugs and curtains can collect dust, allergens and odors over time, but it may not be obvious. Check fabric care tags and clean machine-washable items in the washer regularly to help keep them fresh and looking their best. Depending on their size and material, many rugs can often be taken outdoors and shaken or beaten to help get the dust out.
4. WIPE DOWN HIGH-TOUCH SURFACES
Frequently used areas, like light switches, cabinet handles and appliance controls can collect a buildup of grime. A quick wipe-down each month helps maintain cleanliness and keeps surfaces looking well cared for. Plus, frequent wipe-downs can help make future cleaning tasks faster.
5. CHECK FOR LEAKS AND WATER ISSUES
Look under sinks, around toilets and near appliances for any signs of moisture, drips or water stains. Catching small leaks early may help prevent issues that can lead to bigger problems in the future.
Some appliances include features that help you catch leaks before they get out of hand. Select Maytag® dishwashers, for instance, feature the Leak Detect system, a combination of multiple features that measure and monitor the flow of water at various points. If a problem is sensed, the unit can take action by draining the tub and alerting you when necessary.
SEASONAL HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
Some tasks don’t need monthly attention but still play an important role in helping keep your home in shape. Explore these seasonal tasks to help you stay ahead of weather changes and shifting household routines.
SPRING MAINTENANCE
Freshening up after winter may include tasks like inspecting your roof and gutters, servicing your air conditioner and checking outdoor faucets and sprinklers for damage before regular use. Though not an exhaustive list, consider:
Inspecting your roof and home’s exterior: Winter weather can cause wear and tear on your roof, so it’s wise to inspect for damaged shingles or loose flashing as spring approaches. Also check fascia and soffit for deterioration and make any necessary repairs. If you aren’t comfortable inspecting your roof, you can hire a professional to help complete this task.
Tuning up your air conditioning system: Dirt and debris may build up inside your air conditioning system, but regular maintenance can help keep your unit optimized so you get cool air just when you need it. Consult a licensed HVAC technician for a proper inspection of your cooling system.
Checking your plumbing: Getting familiar with the shutoff valves near each plumbing fixture can help prepare you in case of a leak. Plus, this gives you a chance to check for signs of water damage that may have resulted from prior leaks that went unnoticed.
SUMMER MAINTENANCE
Cleaning up outdoor living spaces, inspecting for signs of pests and checking your home’s siding and windows can help you make the most of the warm summer months. As summer approaches, consider:
Inspecting outdoor gathering spaces and fixtures: Routine inspections of decks and patios can help identify small issues before they turn into bigger problems. Check wood surfaces for rot and water damage, then make sure supports, boards and railings feel stable and secure. For concrete patios, look for cracks, uneven areas or drainage issues that could cause water to pool. Also watch for mold, algae or overgrowth that can lead to further damage if left untreated.
Checking siding and windows: Inspect window panes for signs of condensation, and ensure that locks and screens are functioning properly. You can also keep an eye out for cracks or loose caulking. Next, check siding for warped or missing sections, and inspect for peeling paint or rot on exterior trim. Be sure to paint or reseal problem areas.
Looking for signs of pests: Check for termite activity or lawn pests like grubs that can damage lawns, ultimately compromising the root system required for a thriving outdoor space.
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FALL MAINTENANCE
To prepare for colder months, consider servicing your home’s heating systems, sealing any drafts and clearing leaves from gutters to help water drainage systems function properly. You can also swap out HVAC filters to support heating efficiency. To prep for fall weather, consider:
Servicing your home’s heating system: Routine inspections of your heating system can help make sure your home is ready for the cooler months ahead. It’s recommended to bring in an HVAC professional for a tune-up to make sure your system is in working order.
Checking and cleaning fireplaces and flues: If you intend to spend quality time around the fire, inspect your fireplace and have the flue cleaned. A professional chimney sweep or technician can clean and inspect your fireplace and chimney and determine if anything needs fixing.
Clearing gutters: Remove any leaves, twigs or debris from your gutters. You can hire a professional or consider tools and attachments that allow you to clean from the ground.
WINTER MAINTENANCE
Outdoor tasks may be impractical during cold winter months, so it can be helpful to focus on indoor maintenance and prepping for the holidays. Winter can be an ideal time to clean out your oven for the holiday meal prep ahead. You can also keep an eye on water hoses, your water heater and drains to help ensure important systems function properly. Consider:
Cleaning your oven: Use your oven’s self-cleaning cycle, or using household items like baking soda, vinegar or lemon juice to deep clean your oven. Check your oven’s user manual for more guidance on cleaning your oven. Some models, like this wall oven from Maytag brand, feature High Temp Self Clean that fights the toughest baked-on foods with a high-heat, self-cleaning technology.
Protecting pipes from cold weather: Depending on where you live, you may run the risk of pipes freezing in the winter if not cared for properly. Be sure to disconnect and store outdoor hoses, close inside valves and open exterior hose bibs so excess water can drain. You may also want to add insulation to sensitive areas of the home, like attics or basements, and check water supply lines in places that receive less heat, like the garage.
APPLIANCE MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
Appliances work hard every day, and regular upkeep can help them perform reliably. Building appliance care into your routine may also help reduce the likelihood of unexpected surprises. Learn more about appliance maintenance with the checklist below.
WASHER AND DRYER MAINTENANCE
Maintaining your washer and dryer often comes down to a few simple habits that help your appliances function as they should. Before first use, make sure your washer is level and that you’re equipped with the right kind of detergent. For day-to-day washer maintenance, avoid overloading, leave the door open after each load to help it dry out and remove laundry quickly to help prevent damp laundry from sitting idle.
Occasionally, wipe down the washer’s door seals, clean the lint filter (if applicable) and run a cleaning cycle about once a month to help keep the interior fresh. You may find that your washer has a designated cleaning cycle, like the Clean Washer with affresh® Cycle available on select Maytag® washers. Periodically clean areas like detergent drawers or the drain pump filter, then check hoses and connections for wear.
You can help maintain your dryer’s performance and lifecycle with regular cleaning and proper use. Clean the lint trap after every load and deep clean it every few months to prevent buildup that can slow drying times. Avoid overloading so air can circulate properly, and make sure the dryer is level for smooth operation. It’s also important to periodically clean the drum and have the dryer vents cleared, about every two years, to help maintain performance and reduce lint buildup.
DISHWASHER MAINTENANCE
Keeping your dishwasher clean works best with a simple, consistent routine. After each load, remove any leftover food or debris from the bottom to help prevent buildup and make sure dishes come out clean. About once a month, run a deep cleaning cycle using a dishwasher cleaner. If you have hard water, try a baking soda and vinegar method to help remove mineral buildup.
As needed, wipe down and polish the exterior of your dishwasher to help keep it looking its best, following the grain if it’s stainless steel. You may also want to clean the dishwasher after washing non-dishware items to help avoid cross-contamination and keep everything fresh. From time to time, inspect the dishwasher filter and spray arms for debris or buildup.
REFRIGERATOR, RANGE AND VENTILATION CHECKS
Keep your kitchen functioning at its best with routine maintenance for your refrigerator, range and ventilation. For your refrigerator, clean the interior monthly and change the water filter or air filter—like the FreshFlow™ Air Filter on select Maytag® refrigerators, every six months. Every year, clean your refrigerator’s condenser coils and inspect the door seals and gaskets for cracking or breakage.
To help keep your range operating at its best, regularly wipe up oven spills with a mild cleaner to help prevent buildup. Always check door seals after cleaning, since damaged gaskets can cause heat loss during use. An occasional deep clean may be necessary, but how often can depend on use and soil levels. You should also clean your kitchen’s exhaust hood and air filter to help remove grease and dust.
HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST FAQS
Even with a solid routine, you may have questions that come up as you care for your home. The quick answers below can help you fine-tune your approach and keep your checklist working for your home.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU UPDATE A HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST?
Review and update your checklist at least once a year or when your home, appliances or routines change. Seasonal adjustments and new equipment may require adding or shifting tasks to stay effective.
IS A HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST DIFFERENT FOR A NEW HOME VS. AN OLDER HOME?
New homes may need fewer repairs, but still require routine upkeep and maintenance to help keep systems operating as they should. However, older homes may need more frequent inspections and preventive maintenance to address wear and tear as well as aging systems.
WHAT HOME MAINTENANCE TASKS ARE WORTH SCHEDULING AHEAD OF TIME?
Some tasks worth scheduling ahead of time are usually seasonal, require professional help, or are easy to forget. If permitted, consider scheduling tasks requiring professional assistance, like HVAC and roof inspections or chimney and gutter cleaning, ahead of time so you don’t run into provider availability.
You may also consider scheduling routine checks for things like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and more on your personal calendar ahead of time—or always pair these tasks in tandem with something seasonal like daylight savings time (spring ahead/fall back)—to make them easier to remember.
WHEN SHOULD I CLEAN VS. WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL?
Routine cleaning and basic inspections, like wiping surfaces, checking filters or clearing debris, may be manageable on your own. For electrical, gas, major plumbing, HVAC, roof work or complex appliance issues you can’t troubleshoot, it’s best to call a trained professional to help ensure proper work and repairs. It’s always worth calling a professional when you’re concerned about your ability to complete a task, or aren’t sure how to proceed.
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