Guides / Inside the house
Home maintenance
Routine maintenance is mostly about a short list of jobs done on a schedule. The trick is having the list and a way to remember it, not knowing how to fix everything.
What to check
- Test GFCI outlets
- Press the test and reset buttons on outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, garages and outdoors. Replace any that do not trip.
- Water heater
- Check around the base for leaks and look at the age on the label. Many tank heaters last around 8 to 12 years. Flushing sediment once a year can help, following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Washing machine hoses
- Look for bulges or cracks. Braided stainless hoses are a common upgrade, and many people replace hoses about every five years.
- Dryer vent
- Clean the lint trap every load and the vent duct at least once a year. Lint buildup is a leading cause of dryer fires.
- Caulk and grout
- Re-caulk around tubs, showers and sinks when it cracks or separates, before water gets behind it.
- Doors and windows
- Lubricate hinges and tracks, tighten loose hardware, and replace worn weatherstripping.
When to do it
Monthly: GFCI test and quick leak look. Twice a year: caulk and weatherstripping. Yearly: water heater and dryer vent.
Call a licensed professional for
- Electrical problems beyond resetting a breaker or GFCI
- Gas appliances, including water heaters and furnaces, if anything smells of gas
- Leaks inside walls or ceilings
This guide is general information for US homeowners. Codes, climates and houses vary. It is not a substitute for an inspection or advice from a licensed contractor, and in an emergency call 911.