December Home Maintenance To-Do List

Swap Out Your Furnace Filter

It’s time to give your heating system some TLC. Changing the air filter every 1-3 months keeps your home’s air clean and your system running smoothly. Look for the filter behind a wall or floor grate, or near the main unit. Here’s how to do it:

1. Turn off the heat
2. Take out the old filter
3. Note the date on the new one
4. Put it in with the arrow facing the right way
5. Close everything up
6. Turn the heat back on

Pro tip: Stick a note nearby with the filter size and when to change it next.

Add Some Cozy to Your Attic

As the temperature drops, your attic insulation becomes extra important. Check what you’ve got and add more if needed. You can usually lay new insulation right on top of the old stuff.

If you’re starting from scratch:

1. Measure between the joists
2. Buy insulation that fits
3. Wear protective gear
4. Unroll between joists, paper side down
5. Cut to fit snugly

For adding layers, skip the paper backing to avoid trapping moisture.

Seal Up Those Attic Stairs

Don’t let warm air escape through your attic access! Here are some easy fixes:

1. Caulk small cracks
2. Use foam for bigger gaps
3. Stick weatherstripping around the opening

Want to go all out? Build an insulated box to cover the stairs or buy a ready-made cover.

Put Your Garden Hoses to Bed

Frozen hoses can split, so let’s tuck them in for winter:

1. Unhook from the spigot
2. Remove spray nozzles
3. Lift and drain
4. Store in a dry spot

If you need to use a hose in winter, drain it after each use.

Protect Your Outdoor Faucets

Frozen pipes are no fun. Here’s how to winterize:

1. Find the indoor shutoff valve for each outdoor faucet
2. Close the valves
3. Open the outdoor faucets
4. Drain any remaining water
5. Close everything up

No shutoff valves? You might have frost-free faucets. If not, grab some insulating covers from the hardware store.

Keep Your Pipes Cozy

Exposed pipes in cold spots like basements or crawl spaces need extra love. Insulating them is easy and can prevent costly damage.

1. Measure your pipes
2. Buy foam pipe insulation
3. Cut to fit
4. Wrap around pipes
5. Secure with tape

Don’t forget those outdoor spigots!

Deck the Halls (Safely)

Time for the fun part – holiday decorations! But let’s do it right:

1. Check all lights for frayed wires
2. Replace any burnt-out bulbs
3. Use a sturdy ladder for hanging
4. Keep cords away from snow and water
5. Don’t overload outlets

Remember, safety first when it comes to spreading holiday cheer!