Home Maintenance Schedule: Month-by-Month Checklist for 2026

Home maintenance isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential. Regular upkeep prevents expensive repairs, maintains your home’s value, and keeps everything running smoothly.

Here’s your complete month-by-month maintenance calendar.

Monthly Tasks (Every Month)

These quick tasks should become routine:

• Check HVAC filter (replace if dirty)
• Test smoke and CO detectors
• Check for water leaks under sinks
• Run water in unused drains (prevents dried traps)
• Clean garbage disposal with ice and citrus

January

Start the year with a focus on winter systems:

• Check weather stripping on doors and windows
• Inspect insulation in attic and crawl spaces
• Test sump pump operation
• Review emergency supplies
• Clean range hood filter

February

Deep winter maintenance continues:

• Check for ice dams on roof
• Monitor pipes in cold areas
• Service garage door (lubricate, check springs)
• Clean dryer vent (fire prevention)
• Replace batteries in smoke detectors

March

Transition to spring prep:

• Schedule HVAC spring service
• Check roof for winter damage
• Clean gutters (or wait until trees finish blooming)
• Test outdoor spigots for freeze damage
• Service lawn equipment

April

Spring cleaning and outdoor prep:

• Deep clean kitchen appliances
• Check window screens (repair or replace)
• Inspect deck/patio for damage
• Test irrigation system
• Check exterior paint and caulking

May

Focus on outdoor systems:

• Clean gutters (after spring pollen/seeds)
• Inspect and clean AC condenser unit
• Check fence for damage
• Seal driveway if needed
• Power wash exterior surfaces

June

Summer prep:

• Set ceiling fans to summer mode (counter-clockwise)
• Check attic ventilation
• Inspect water heater for sediment
• Test garage door auto-reverse safety
• Clean refrigerator coils

July

Mid-summer maintenance:

• Deep clean grout and tiles
• Check caulking around bathtubs/showers
• Inspect exterior for pest entry points
• Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans
• Service pool equipment (if applicable)

August

Prep for fall transition:

• Schedule furnace/heating system service
• Check weatherstripping condition
• Inspect roof and chimney before fall
• Clean out storage areas
• Check school-age kid’s room for growing needs

September

Fall preparation:

• Set ceiling fans to winter mode (clockwise)
• Drain and store garden hoses
• Shut off exterior water (freeze-prone areas)
• Clean and store outdoor furniture
• Check fireplace/chimney (schedule cleaning)

October

Winterization begins:

• Clean gutters (after leaves fall)
• Inspect roof before winter weather
• Check heating system operation
• Seal air leaks around windows/doors
• Test generator if you have one

November

Final winter prep:

• Final gutter cleaning
• Check insulation on pipes
• Store or cover outdoor furniture
• Replace HVAC filter (fresh for heavy-use season)
• Test all interior plumbing

December

Year-end wrap-up:

• Check holiday lighting safety
• Review home inventory (annual update)
• Plan next year’s major projects
• Check fire extinguisher dates
• Review emergency supplies

Make It Easier with an App

Tracking all these tasks manually is challenging. Home management apps like Dib can:

• Send automatic reminders for recurring tasks
• Track what you’ve completed and when
• Connect maintenance to specific appliances
• Keep service records organized

Stop relying on memory. Let technology handle the reminders so you can focus on actually doing the maintenance.

Download the Checklist

Print this calendar or save it to your home management app. Consistent maintenance today prevents expensive problems tomorrow.