The work that stops the emergency

Service the AC before the first 95° day

Change the filter, rinse the outdoor coil gently, and clear the condensate line with vinegar.

Test every smoke and CO alarm

Press each test button and check the manufacture date on the back.

Walk the exterior after storm season starts

Look from the ground for lifted shingles, bent flashing, and clogged gutters.

Check irrigation heads and coverage

Run each zone and fix heads spraying the driveway instead of the lawn.

Keep the slab evenly watered

During drought, soak the perimeter slowly and evenly to limit clay soil movement.

Change the filter monthly in peak heat

Systems run near-continuously in July and August and load filters fast.

Flush the water heater

Drain sediment that hard water leaves on the tank bottom, and set the thermostat to 120°F.

Clean dryer vent and refrigerator coils

Both are fire and efficiency issues, and both take one afternoon.

Clear gutters and downspouts

Water needs to leave the roof and land several feet from the foundation.

Seal drafts at windows and doors

Fresh caulk and weatherstripping are the cheapest energy upgrade there is.

Have the heating system checked

Book before the first cold snap when technicians are still available.

Cover hose bibs and insulate exposed pipe

Do it in November, not the night the freeze warning lands.

Locate and label the main water shut-off

Everyone in the house should know where it is and which way it turns.

Prepare for a hard freeze

Drip a far faucet, open sink cabinets on exterior walls, and keep the garage closed.

Check attic insulation depth

Thin or displaced insulation is the quiet reason a house never feels warm.

Reverse ceiling fans to clockwise

Low speed clockwise pushes warm air down off the ceiling.