December Home Maintenance Checklis

As the holiday season approaches and winter settles in, it’s easy to get caught up in festivities and forget about the essential maintenance tasks that keep your home safe and cozy. December is the perfect time to ensure your home is ready for the colder months ahead. From checking your heating system to winterizing outdoor spaces, tackling these maintenance tasks now can prevent costly repairs and create a warm, welcoming environment for family and friends during the holidays. In this blog post, we’ve put together a comprehensive December home maintenance checklist to help you navigate the seasonal tasks and enjoy a stress-free winter. Let’s dive in!

Exterior Maintenance

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters:

   • Remove leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and water damage.

2. Check Roof for Damage:

   • Look for missing or damaged shingles and repair them before snow accumulates.

3. Seal Drafts:

   • Check windows and doors for drafts and apply weather stripping or caulk as needed.

4. Store Outdoor Furniture:

   • Clean and store or cover patio furniture and accessories to protect them from the elements.

5. Winterize Sprinkler Systems:

   • Drain and shut down outdoor sprinkler systems to prevent freezing.

6. Check Outdoor Lighting:

   • Ensure that outdoor lights are working and replace any burnt-out bulbs for safety.

Interior Maintenance

1. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

   • Test alarms and replace batteries if needed.

2. Change Air Filters:

   • Replace HVAC filters to improve indoor air quality and system efficiency.

3. Inspect Heating System:

   • Schedule a professional tune-up for your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s operating efficiently.

4. Prepare for Holiday Cooking:

   • Clean the oven and check the functionality of kitchen appliances.

5. Inspect Plumbing:

   • Look for any leaks, especially in unheated areas, and insulate pipes to prevent freezing.

6. Stock Emergency Supplies:

   • Ensure you have a supply of essentials like batteries, flashlights, and non-perishable food in case of winter storms.

Safety and Security

1. Check Home Security System:

   • Test alarms and ensure all cameras and sensors are functioning properly.

2. Inspect Fire Extinguishers:

   • Make sure fire extinguishers are charged and accessible.

3. Create a Winter Emergency Kit:

   • Include items like blankets, snacks, a first aid kit, and a portable phone charger.

4. Review Emergency Plan:

   • Update your family’s emergency plan for winter storms, including evacuation routes and communication strategies.

Landscaping and Yard Work

1. Trim Trees and Shrubs:

   • Prune any dead or overhanging branches that could break under snow or ice.

2. Spread Mulch:

   • Add mulch to gardens to protect plants from the cold and retain moisture.

3. Prepare Garden Beds:

   • Clean up leaves and debris and consider covering delicate plants with burlap or frost cloth.

Holiday Preparations

1. Inspect Holiday Lights:

   • Check for any frayed wires or broken bulbs before hanging lights.

2. Plan for Guests:

   • Prepare guest rooms and bathrooms for visitors, including fresh linens and toiletries.

3. Check Heating Zones:

   • Ensure all rooms are adequately heated, especially guest areas.

This checklist should help you keep your home in good shape throughout December and ensure you’re ready for the winter months ahead!