Winter Maintenance Checklist

Foundation, Basements & Exterior Walls
  • Check the basement floor drain to ensure the trap contains water, refill with water as necessary
  • Check foundation walls for cracks and repair
Roofs, Yard, Fireplace, Chimneys & Gutters
  • Check attic vents for insulation blockage & inspect for signs of roof leaks, birds and animal nests
  • Examine attic for frost accumulation. Check roof for ice dams or icicles. If there is excessive frost or staining of the underside of the roof, or ice dams on the roof surface, consult with a professional
  • Check your attic for proper insulation
  • Check chimney for cracks and leaks
  • Clean your gutters and window wells
  • Store or cover your patio furniture
  • Check your snow removal equipment and have a shovel ready
Doors and Windows
  • Remove and store window screens
  • Examine windows and doors for ice accumulation or cold air leaks & repair when possible
  • Lubricate bi-fold and by-pass doors if needed
Electrical and Appliances
  • Reverse ceiling fans to direct heat downward
  • Check condition of lamp cords, extension cords and plugs, and replace at first sign of wear or damage
  • Check electrical cords, plugs and outlets for all indoor and outdoor seasonal lights to ensure fire safety: if worn, or plugs or cords feel warm to the touch, replace immediately
  • Clean drains in dishwasher, sinks, bathtubs and shower stalls
  • Trip circuit breakers and GFCI to ensure proper operation. If not, contact electrician for repair
Plumbing & HWH
  • After consulting your hot water tank owner's manual, drain off a dishpan full of water from the clean-out valve at the bottom of your hot water tank to control sediment and maintain efficiency
  • Check water supply lines and valves for leaks, as well as hoses to washer and dishwasher
  • Inspect toilets for stability, water leaks in and outside of the tank
  • Monitor your home for excessive moisture levels-for example, condensation on your windows, which can cause significant damage over time and pose serious health problems-and take corrective action. Check all faucets for signs of dripping and change washers as needed
  • Test plumbing shut-off valves to ensure they are working and to prevent them from seizing
  • Turn off and on all water valves including water main shutoff, sinks, toilets, dishwasher, fridge, external faucets, etc.
Heating & Cooling
  • Vacuum bathroom fan grille, radiators, baseboards and air registers
Interior General
  • Check cabinet doors and hinges for proper alignment
  • Clean and check proper function of smoke and CO detectors
  • Clean humidifier two or three times during the winter season