Concord Carpenter

1. turn off outside water bibs and remove hoses (fall), open hose valves (spring)
2. rake debris away from side of house and other structures – prevents rot
3. clean out gutters and downspout elbows
4. check gutters, downspouts, and roof penetrations for leaks
5. treat wood gutters (spring or fall)
6. check and repair caulk (if needed) around exterior surfaces (fall)
7. note any cracks in foundation, brick or stucco
8. hose off house exterior (spring)
9. scrub mildew areas of house exterior and treat for mildew and fungus on decks (spring)
10. clean gaps between deck boards above joists
11. clean around air conditioner compressor, and condenser coils.  (often overlooked)
12. trim any trees or shrubs that touch house
13. inspect and replace weatherstripping, insulation.  (if needed)
14. inspect and repair (if needed) screens
15. inspect and clean (if needed) storm window weep holes
16. clean out under decks and porches
17. inspect and repair (if needed) glazing compound
18. clean out basement window wells
19. examine septic system drain field for flooding, odor; have tank pumped yearly

Monthly Check List

These are some monthly jobs that should be done to keep appliances and mechanical equipment working properly.

Doing so will likely extend the life and performance of each item.

1. inspect and clean faucet aerators and shower heads
2. clean frost-free refrigerator drain pan and coils
3. inspect dishwasher for leaks
4. clean kitchen exhaust fan filters
5. grind ice cubes in disposer
6. check and replace (if needed) heating system air filter
7. drain 1-2 gallons of water [sediment] from water heater
8. maintain drains with baking soda or hot water, not with chemical drain openers
9. pour water down unused drains
10. inspect visible foundation areas, pipes, vents and ducts

At least once a year, these items need to be checked. It’s important to properly check the fireplace and combustion appliances by fall, because the house is “sealed up” in the winter and not much fresh air enters in.

1. clean and seal tile grout
2. inspect plumbing shutoff valves
3. inspect toilets for stability and tighten bolts or replace seal and bolts
4. “exercise” circuit breakers
5. vacuum smoke alarms 
6. vacuum heating registers, vents, ducts, radiators
7. inspect fireplace flues for “glassy” creosote buildup and have flues cleaned regularly
8. inspect fireplace firebrick and mortar for cracks and deterioration, patch small cracks, but large ones require professional repair

Most heating system maintenance should be done twice a year, once before the heating season and once before the cooling season.

1. general furnace inspection: look for rust, scaling on heat exchanger, proper flame color, note odd sounds or smells and check condition of venting
2. test for proper drafting at furnace and/or water heater divert-er, examine flue for leaks, rust, damage
3. examine pressure-temperature relief valve for leaking
4. arrange for appropriate regular servicing and cleaning of combustion appliances.
5. Change filters
6. drain hot water system expansion tank
7. check hot water system water level (pressure)
8. bleed hot water system radiator