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DIY Guide

09 Jun 2026

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Need a reminder for scheduled home maintenance?

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Owning a home is a bit like being the captain of a very slow-moving ship—if you don't check the hull occasionally, you’re going to run into issues. Most people remember the lawn and the air filters, but the "invisible" systems often get neglected until they break.

Change HVAC Filters

recommended quarterly
- Description
  
  Dirty filters make your heating and cooling system work harder, increasing energy bills and shortening its lifespan. A clean filter improves air quality and efficiency.
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Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

recommended monthly
- Description
  
  Press the test button and replace batteries as needed. This is a quick safety check that can literally save lives.
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- Select Frequency
Clean Gutters & Downspouts

recommended bi-annual
- Description
  
  Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and damage your roof, siding, or foundation. Keeping them clear prevents costly water issues.
- Pick first reminder date
- Select Frequency
Inspect Roof for Damage

recommended annually
- Description
  
  Look for missing shingles, cracks, or wear. Catching small issues early avoids leaks and expensive structural repairs later.
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- Select Frequency
Flush the Water Heater

recommended annually
- Description
  
  Sediment buildup reduces efficiency and can damage the tank. Flushing it helps extend its life and keeps heating costs lower.
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- Select Frequency
Check for Leaks

recommended monthly
- Description
  
  Inspect under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances. Small leaks waste water and can lead to mold or structural damage if ignored.
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Seal Windows & Doors

recommended annually
- Description
  
  Check for drafts and apply weatherstripping or caulking where needed. This improves energy efficiency and lowers heating/cooling bills.
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- Select Frequency
Clean Dryer Vent

recommended annually
- Description
  
  Lint buildup reduces efficiency and is a fire hazard. Cleaning the vent helps your dryer run faster and safer.
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- Select Frequency
Service HVAC System

recommended annually
- Description
  
  Have a professional inspect and tune up your furnace and AC. Regular servicing prevents breakdowns and improves efficiency.
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- Select Frequency
Inspect Foundation & Exterior

recommended annually
- Description
  
  Look for cracks, shifting, or drainage issues around your home. Early detection can prevent major structural repairs.
- Pick first reminder date
- Select Frequency
Testing the Sump Pump

recommended annually
- Description
  
  If you have a basement with a sump pump, you don’t want to find out it’s dead during a record-breaking rainstorm. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to ensure the float trigger activates and the pump actually moves water out of the house.
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- Select Frequency
Cleaning Refrigerator Coils

recommended annually
- Description
  
  he coils on the back or bottom of your fridge dissipate heat. When they get caked in dust and pet hair, the compressor has to run constantly to keep your milk cold. A quick vacuuming can extend the life of the appliance by years.
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Checking Attic and Crawlspace Ventilation

recommended annually
- Description
  
  We rarely go into these "liminal spaces," but checking them once a year is vital. Look for signs of moisture, mold, or critters that have decided to move in. Ensure your soffit vents aren't blocked by insulation, which can lead to ice dams in the winter.
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- Select Frequency
Recaulking Exterior Windows and Doors

recommended annually
- Description
  
  Caulk dries out, cracks, and shrinks. Annual inspection of the seals around your windows and doors prevents water from seeping into your wall studs—a recipe for expensive rot that stays hidden for years.
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- Select Frequency
Inspecting the Roof (From the Ground)

recommended annually
- Description
  
  You don't necessarily need to climb up there, but grab a pair of binoculars. Look for "shingle blow-off," cracked flashing around the chimney, or moss growth. Catching one missing shingle now saves you from a ceiling leak later.
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- Select Frequency
Checking Gutter Downspouts

recommended bi-annually
- Description
  
  Everyone cleans the gutters, but many forget to check where the water goes. Ensure your downspout extensions are still attached and directing water at least 5 to 10 feet away from your foundation.
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Deep Cleaning the Dishwasher Filter

recommended annually
- Description
  
  Modern dishwashers have a manual-clean filter at the bottom. If your dishes are starting to look cloudy or "gritty," it’s likely because the filter is clogged with a year's worth of food particles and grease.
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