14 Must-Do Monthly Tasks for Every Homeowner

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Being a responsible homeowner involves more than just paying the mortgage; it requires regular maintenance to keep your home in good shape. Regular maintenance tasks help you catch small problems before they become costly emergencies. 

Whether you’re new to homeownership or just need a reminder, here are 15 things homeowners need to do once a month that will help you stay on track and keep your home in great condition. 

Give Your HVAC System Some TLC

Your HVAC system keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. As part of your monthly maintenance, change or clean the air filters to keep the air quality healthy. Your HVAC system will thank you with lower energy bills and a longer lifespan.

Check Gutters

Gutters and downspouts direct rain and melting snow away from your home to prevent water infiltration. On a monthly basis, check your gutters for signs of leaves or other obstructions and fix any clogs or improper drainage. You should also reach out to a professional for help clearing gutters or repairing any damage.

Walk Through Your Entire Property

Check any rarely used spaces, such as the attic or under a raised deck, each month. Look for evidence of insects, rodents, rot, leaks, or mold to identify developing problems early.

Check the Health of Large Trees on Property

Regular tree inspections help prevent potential hazards like falling branches or toppled trees, which can damage your property or pose a safety risk. Inspecting large trees on your property is an essential monthly task for both safety and maintenance.

Look for signs of weakness, such as cracks in the trunk, leaning trunks, or exposed roots, which could indicate instability. Check for decay, including hollow areas, dead branches, or fungal growth around the base, as these are signs that the tree may be compromised.

Inspect Your Plumbing for Leaks

Drips and leaks can be the silent drainers of your water bill and your sanity. Give your plumbing a once-over each month. Check for any leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement. Don’t forget to listen for those subtle drips that might be hiding.

Deep Clean Kitchen Appliances

The quick wipe-downs you do regularly are pretty good, but a monthly deep clean of your stovetop, range hood, oven, and microwave will keep them looking good, working well, and lasting longer. Don’t forget to give the door edges on your dishwasher a good scrub and wipe-down, too.

Test Garage Door Features

If you have kids or pets, this is an important safety feature. Place a 2×4 on the ground where the door would close—it should reverse after a second or so when the door hits the wood.

Test the photo-electric sensors as well by placing an object in front of them. The door should immediately go back up. If not, the garage door opener needs to be adjusted, fixed, or replaced.

Check Your Fire Extinguishers

This is as easy as checking the gauge to see if it has expired. Also, make sure the extinguishers are easily accessible (not behind something heavy) and that everyone in your household knows their locations. You should have one on every level of your home, in the garage and kitchen.

Test Smoke And CO2 Detectors

The best time to ensure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are in tip-top working order is before you actually need them to be. Press the test button on each device to ensure they’re working correctly.

If the batteries are low or dead, replace them immediately. Additionally, most smoke detectors expire in about 10 years, but CO2 detectors have a lifespan of about 7 years.

Clean Kitchen Sink Disposal

A smelly garbage disposal can make your whole kitchen unpleasant. Luckily, it’s easy to keep it fresh with a monthly cleaning. Start by running a few vinegar ice cubes through the disposal.

Put some vinegar in an ice tray and let it freeze. Once frozen, run the ice cubes through the disposal system. This will help to freshen the system and keep the blades sharp!

Inspect Windows and Doors

Proper sealing around windows and doors keeps out drafts and prevents water infiltration, which can cause damage over time. Once a month, inspect the caulking around all your windows and exterior doors for cracks or gaps.

Clean Dryer Vents 

Your dryer vent may seem insignificant, but if neglected, it can pose a serious fire risk. Lint buildup reduces efficiency and could possibly create a fire hazard. Clean the dryer vent once a month.

Inspect Roof for Visible Damage

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense, so regular inspections are essential. Once a month, check for missing, cracked, or curling shingles. You should also be on the lookout for debris buildup in valleys or near chimneys.

After severe weather, check for damage from wind or fallen branches. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent leaks. 

Organize Closets

Organizing your closets may seem minor, but it significantly impacts your daily life. Once a month, declutter by removing items you no longer use. Organize what’s left by grouping similar items together, using bins or baskets to keep things tidy.

This regular decluttering makes your space more functional and helps you spot potential issues like moisture or pests that may be hiding in cluttered areas.

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