Central Florida Home Maintenance Checklist, Season by Season

Every month

• Check the AC filter and change it on the schedule printed on the filter.
• Look under sinks for drips or water stains. If you find a leak, call a licensed plumber.
• Run water in showers and sinks you don't use often.
• Look at caulk in tubs, showers and around sinks for gaps or mold.

Spring (March to May): before hurricane season

Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Spring is the time to get ahead of it.

• Clean gutters and make sure downspouts carry water away from the house.
• Walk the outside of the house. Seal gaps around windows, doors and trim, and leave window weep holes open so water can drain.
• Check storm shutters or panels and their hardware, and label panels by window.
• Trim small branches away from the house. Large trees are a job for a licensed tree service.
• Book an AC service with a licensed HVAC company before the summer rush.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Summer (June to August)

• After storms, look for new water stains on ceilings and around windows.
• Expect doors to stick more in the humidity. A small adjustment usually fixes it.
• Run bathroom fans during and after showers, and watch closets for mildew.

Fall (September to November)

• Do a walk-through after storm season for loose trim, damaged screens and gaps.
• Clean the gutters again.
• Check exterior wood trim for soft spots and touch up paint where it's worn.
• Have the dryer vent cleaned out.

Winter (December to February)

Cooler, drier months are the best time for indoor projects like painting, trim work and accent walls. It's also a good time to replace worn weatherstripping and work through your list of small repairs.