Your home
Home maintenance schedule
What to check every month, every three months and every season, built for the San Diego climate.
Month by month
Every month
- Test smoke and CO alarms
- Check the HVAC filter; replace if dirty
- Look under sinks for drips and swelling
- Run water in unused drains so traps don't dry out
- Clean the disposal and range hood filter
Every 3 months
- Replace the HVAC filter (sooner with pets or dust)
- Test GFCI outlets with the test button
- Check caulk around tubs, showers and sinks
- Check washer hoses and the dryer vent hood
- Tighten loose door hardware and cabinet hinges
Fall (now)
- Clean gutters and downspouts before the first rain
- Clear brush and dead plants for Santa Ana wind season
- Cut back the irrigation schedule as days cool
- Test the heater and replace the filter
- Weatherstrip doors and re-caulk windows
- Check roof, flashing and attic for daylight or stains
Winter (rain season)
- After the first big rain, check ceilings and the attic for leaks
- Make sure yard drains and grading move water away from the house
- Flush the water heater
- Clean the dryer vent duct
Spring
- Service the AC before the heat
- Termite and pest inspection
- Pressure wash siding, decks and pavers
- Touch up exterior paint and caulk
Summer
- Check sprinklers for leaks and overspray
- Seal decks and fences
- Check attic ventilation and insulation
- Clean AC condenser fins and clear plants around it