Here’s a simple bi-annual “Top to Bottom” checklist to keep your home in shape year round.

   

1. Roof: Check roof and around vents, skylights and chimneys for leaks. Repair as necessary.
2. Sealant: Seal natural stone or wood decks and bamboo structures.
3. Gutters: Clean gutters and drain pipes so leaves won't clog them and be sure they drain away from the house. Drain outside faucets.
4. Filters: Remember to clean or replace filters once a month, or as needed. Check and clean dryer vent, air conditioner, stove hood and room fans. Keep cooling vents clean and away from furniture and draperies.
5. Safety Equipment: Ensure that all smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers are in good working order. Replace batteries in appropriate devices as needed, or at least twice each year.
6. Refrigerator: Make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Test them by closing the door over a dollar bill. If you can pull the bill out easily, the latch may need to be adjusted or the seal may need to be replaced. In addition, if you have a coil-back refrigerator, vacuum the coils at least twice each year. Your refrigerator will run more efficiently with clean coils. Also, stock up! A full refrigerator uses less energy than an empty one.
7. Faucets: Check for leaky faucets in kitchen and bathroom(s). Replace washers as necessary.
8. Windows and Doors: Seal drafty doors and windows. If you added up all of the small cracks where heating and cooling escapes from a home, it would be the same as having a window open. Replace seals as needed.
9. Storm Windows and Screens: Remove, clean and patch all door and window screens. Silicone lube tracks and mechanical parts.
10. Siding and Paint: Look for cracks and holes in house siding or paint. Replace caulk if necessary. A carpet knife can work well for cutting away old caulking from house siding. Slice down alongside it from both directions with the hook-like blade, then use the knife to lift out the old caulk bead intact.
11. Hot Water Heater: Drain hot water heater. Remove sediment from the bottom of the tank.
12. Water: Inspect washing machine hose and water heater connections.
13. Surfaces: Seal stone floor and counters.
14. Structural: Check exposed wood for signs of rot and bugs.
15. Garden: Cut back trees and bushes touching side of house or roof.