Your Maintenance Dashboard
Track your progress through 47 essential maintenance tasks. Click the checkboxes to mark tasks complete and see your progress update in real-time.
Your progress is saved in your browser. Come back anytime to check off tasks as you complete them throughout the year.
Interactive Maintenance Schedule
Select a time frame below to see relevant maintenance tasks. Each task includes difficulty rating, estimated cost, time required, and DFW-specific tips.
Monthly Maintenance
Quick tasks that take 30 minutes or less. Build these into your routine to prevent bigger problems.
A clean filter improves air quality, reduces energy costs by 5-15%, and extends your HVAC system's life. In DFW's dusty climate, check monthly.
Use MERV 8-11 filters for best balance of filtration and airflow. During peak allergy season (spring) or wildfire season, consider upgrading to MERV 13.
Press the test button on each detector. If it doesn't beep loudly, replace the batteries immediately. Texas law requires working smoke detectors on each floor.
Replace detector units every 10 years. Check the manufacture date printed on the back. Many DFW homeowners forget CO detectors near attached garages.
Freeze vinegar in ice cube trays, then run the cubes through the disposal. The ice sharpens the blades while vinegar kills bacteria and eliminates odors.
Hard water buildup is common in DFW. Add lemon peels with the ice for extra deodorizing. Never put grease, coffee grounds, or fibrous vegetables down the disposal.
Ensure salt level is at least half-full. Break up any salt bridges (hard crust) that prevent proper water softening. Refill with high-purity salt pellets.
DFW has notoriously hard water (250-400+ ppm). A properly maintained softener extends the life of your water heater, dishwasher, and plumbing by preventing mineral buildup.
Remove mesh filter and soak in hot, soapy water with degreaser. Scrub with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly. A clogged filter reduces ventilation effectiveness.
If you cook frequently (especially fried foods or Tex-Mex), clean monthly. Most DFW homes have recirculating hoods, so clean filters are critical for air quality.
Unscrew aerators from faucet tips and remove mineral deposits with vinegar. Low water pressure is often caused by clogged aerators, not major plumbing issues.
DFW's hard water clogs aerators fast. Soak in white vinegar overnight to dissolve stubborn deposits. Replace aerators every 2-3 years for best flow and efficiency.
Remove the filter from the bottom of the dishwasher and rinse under hot water. Check for food debris and mineral buildup. A clogged filter causes poor cleaning and odors.
Run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar quarterly to combat hard water buildup. If you notice white film on glasses, you need more rinse aid.
Clean lint screen after every load. Monthly, disconnect dryer and vacuum the exhaust vent. Lint buildup is a leading cause of house fires and reduces dryer efficiency.
If your dryer takes longer than 40 minutes per load, the vent is probably clogged. Get a professional vent cleaning annually if you have a long vent run (15+ feet).
Pour boiling water down kitchen and bathroom sinks to dissolve grease and soap buildup. Follow with a 1/2 cup baking soda and vinegar for extra cleaning power.
Never use chemical drain cleaners regularly - they damage pipes over time. For persistent slow drains, use a drain snake or call a plumber. Prevention is cheaper than pipe replacement.
Check for running water (add food coloring to tank - if it appears in bowl without flushing, you have a leak). Listen for phantom flushes. Replace flappers every 3-5 years.
A running toilet can waste 200+ gallons per day - that's $50-100/year on your water bill. DFW water rates are high, so fix leaks immediately. Flappers cost under $10.
Check door and window seals for cracks or gaps. Hold a candle near edges on a windy day - if the flame flickers, you're losing conditioned air. Replace worn weather stripping immediately.
With 100+ days above 90°F, every gap costs you money. Focus on south and west-facing doors/windows first. Self-adhesive weather stripping is easy to install and pays for itself in one summer.
Dust fan blades with a microfiber cloth or pillowcase. In summer, blades should spin counterclockwise to push air down. In winter, reverse to clockwise to circulate warm air.
Ceiling fans can reduce AC costs by 4-8% in DFW summers. Run on high during peak heat (2-8pm). In winter, run on low reverse to push warm air down from the ceiling without creating a draft.
Pull refrigerator away from wall and vacuum condenser coils (usually on back or bottom). Dust buildup makes the compressor work harder, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
DFW's dust and pet dander clog coils faster than average. If you have pets, vacuum every 3 months. This simple task can extend your fridge's life by 5+ years and reduce energy use by 10%.
Quarterly Maintenance
Deeper tasks that need attention every 3 months. Schedule these around the changing seasons for best results.
Professional tune-up includes refrigerant check, coil cleaning, electrical connections, thermostat calibration, and ductwork inspection. Essential for DFW's extreme temperatures.
Schedule AC service in March before cooling season starts. Most HVAC companies offer tune-up specials in spring and fall. Regular service extends system life by 40% in DFW's harsh climate.
Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters. Flush downspouts with a hose to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters cause roof damage, foundation issues, and basement flooding.
Even without heavy tree cover, DFW wind blows debris into gutters. After severe storms, check for hail damage. Hire a pro if you have a two-story home or aren't comfortable on ladders.
Drain 1-2 gallons from the tank's drain valve to remove sediment buildup. DFW's hard water accelerates sediment accumulation, reducing efficiency and tank lifespan.
If you've never flushed your heater, hire a pro first - old sediment can clog the drain valve. Set a reminder to do this 3-4 times per year to combat DFW's mineral-heavy water.
Check caulk around windows, doors, bathtubs, and sinks. Scrape out old, cracked caulk and reapply fresh silicone or acrylic caulk. Prevents water damage and improves energy efficiency.
Texas heat degrades caulk faster than cooler climates. Focus on exterior windows and doors first, then bathrooms. Use 100% silicone for wet areas, acrylic latex for paintable surfaces.
Inspect soaker hoses or drip irrigation around your foundation. Consistent moisture prevents expansive clay soil from shrinking and causing foundation movement. Water 6-12 inches from foundation.
Foundation problems affect 60%+ of DFW homes. Water evenly around the perimeter during dry spells. In summer, run soaker hoses 30-60 minutes per zone, 2-3 times weekly. This prevents $10,000+ foundation repairs.
Lubricate hinges, rollers, and springs with silicone spray. Test auto-reverse safety feature by placing a 2x4 under the door. Tighten hardware and check for unusual noises.
Never attempt to adjust or replace torsion springs yourself - they're under extreme tension and can cause serious injury. Call a pro for spring issues. Lubrication prevents costly repairs.
Check for termite mud tubes, ant trails, rodent droppings, and entry points. Seal cracks in foundation and siding. Keep mulch 6 inches from foundation. Consider professional quarterly service.
Texas has aggressive termites year-round. If you see mud tubes or swarming winged insects in spring, call a pro immediately. Quarterly pest service costs $100-150 quarterly but prevents thousands in termite damage.
Run each zone and check for broken sprinkler heads, leaks, and coverage gaps. Adjust spray patterns to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways. Clean clogged nozzles.
DFW water bills spike in summer - a single broken head can waste 200+ gallons per cycle. Check your system before peak watering season (May-September). Follow local watering restrictions to avoid fines.
Pour water into sump pit until pump activates. Ensure it pumps water out completely and shuts off properly. Test battery backup by unplugging the pump and adding water.
Most DFW homes don't have sump pumps, but if you do (especially in older neighborhoods prone to flooding), test before spring storm season. Replace battery backup every 3-5 years.
Check for loose boards, rusted nails, and rotted wood. Tighten hardware and replace damaged sections. Power wash and reseal/restain every 2-3 years to prevent weathering.
Texas sun and heat fade and crack wood quickly. Cedar and redwood last longer than pine. Seal fences in spring before summer heat sets in. Check posts for ground-level rot - this is where failures start.
Seasonal Maintenance
Tasks organized by DFW's seasons: Spring (March-May), Summer (June-August), Fall (September-November), Winter (December-February).
Spring (March - May)
Schedule professional AC tune-up before cooling season. Clear debris from outdoor unit, replace filter, test system on a warm day. Don't wait until the first 95°F day.
DFW's cooling season starts earlier and runs longer than most of the country. Book your tune-up in March - HVAC companies are slammed by May. A well-maintained AC saves 15-20% on summer electric bills.
Trim tree branches within 10 feet of your home. Secure outdoor furniture. Check roof shingles for damage. Review homeowner's insurance policy and document belongings with photos.
DFW averages 5-9 hail storms per year, peaking March-May. After any storm with quarter-sized+ hail, get a free roof inspection. Many insurance policies cover hail damage - file claims within 1 year.
Apply pre-emergent weed control before soil hits 55-60°F. Aerate lawn if compacted. Overseed thin areas with Bermuda or St. Augustine. Start mowing when grass reaches 3-4 inches.
Apply pre-emergent by mid-March or you'll fight crabgrass all summer. Bermuda and St. Augustine are best for DFW heat. Set mower to 3-3.5 inches - taller grass shades roots and reduces water needs.
Look for peeling paint, cracks, or wood rot. Touch up small areas with matching paint. Plan for full exterior painting every 7-10 years or when 30%+ shows wear.
Texas sun is brutal on paint. South and west-facing walls fade fastest. Use high-quality exterior paint with UV protection. Address peeling immediately - moisture intrusion leads to wood rot.
Summer (June - August)
During DFW's brutal summer, your AC runs 12-16 hours daily. Clogged filters reduce efficiency by 15% and strain the system. Check every 2 weeks in July-August, replace monthly minimum.
Buy filters in bulk (12-pack) to save money and ensure you never run out. Set a phone reminder for the 1st of each month June-September. A clean filter saves $50-100/month on electric bills.
DFW's clay soil shrinks dramatically in summer heat, pulling away from foundations. Water evenly around perimeter using soaker hoses for 30-60 minutes per zone, 2-3x weekly.
This is THE most important summer task for DFW homeowners. Foundation repairs cost $4,000-15,000+. Water in early morning (5-9am) to minimize evaporation. Consistent moisture prevents costly movement.
Close blinds and curtains on south and west-facing windows during peak heat (2-8pm). Consider blackout curtains or solar screens. Blocking direct sun can reduce AC load by 20%.
West-facing windows are brutal in DFW. Solar screens (exterior) block 80-90% of heat vs. 45-60% for interior blinds. Many DFW homes use both. Shade windows during peak hours and save $30-50/month.
Use a hygrometer to track indoor humidity. Ideal range: 30-50%. High humidity promotes mold; low humidity causes wood cracking. Your AC should dehumidify naturally, but oversized systems may not.
DFW summers can be surprisingly humid. If levels stay above 60% despite AC, run bathroom fans longer or add a dehumidifier. Low humidity (below 30%) is rare but causes static and dry skin.
Fall (September - November)
Schedule furnace tune-up, replace filter, test thermostat on heat mode. Check for strange smells or noises. Clean dust from vents and registers. Ensure carbon monoxide detectors work.
DFW winters are mild but unpredictable - we can drop to freezing overnight. Test your heat in October before you need it. Many homes have heat pumps, not furnaces - know which you have.
Overseed thin areas with ryegrass for winter green (optional). Apply fall fertilizer to strengthen roots before winter. Aerate if soil is compacted. Continue mowing until grass stops growing.
Bermuda and St. Augustine go dormant (brown) in winter - this is normal. Overseed with annual ryegrass for green winter lawn, or let it rest. Fall fertilizer helps lawns bounce back strong in spring.
Remove fallen leaves and debris before winter rains. Ensure downspouts drain away from foundation. Check for leaks or sagging sections. Install gutter guards if trees drop heavy debris.
Many DFW trees drop leaves late (November-December). Clean gutters after most leaves have fallen. Clogged gutters overflow during winter storms, damaging fascia and causing foundation issues.
Drain and blow out irrigation system. Cover outdoor faucets with insulated caps. Store garden hoses. Bring sensitive plants indoors. Clean and store patio furniture or cover securely.
DFW winters are unpredictable - we might hit 75°F in January then freeze the next week. Protect pipes, outdoor faucets, and sprinkler systems by late November. A hard freeze can burst unprotected pipes.
Winter (December - February)
Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to reach pipes. Let faucets drip slightly overnight. Cover outdoor faucets. Disconnect and drain garden hoses. Know where your water shutoff is.
DFW isn't used to hard freezes, but when they hit (like Feb 2021), they're devastating. Burst pipes cost $5,000-20,000 in damage. When temps drop below 28°F for 4+ hours, take precautions seriously.
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, get a professional chimney inspection and cleaning annually. Check for creosote buildup, cracks, and animal nests. Test the damper. Stock up on seasoned firewood.
Most DFW homes have gas fireplaces (easier) or decorative wood-burning fireplaces (rarely used). If you burn wood, have chimney cleaned after every 40-50 fires or annually. Creosote fires are deadly.
Inspect attic insulation for gaps, compression, or moisture damage. DFW homes should have R-30 to R-49 insulation. Look for signs of roof leaks, rodent activity, or mold.
Proper attic insulation is crucial for DFW's extreme temperatures. Inadequate insulation costs $50-100+ per month in wasted energy. Many older homes are under-insulated - adding insulation pays back in 2-3 years.
Stock emergency supplies: bottled water (1 gallon/person/day for 3 days), non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, battery-powered radio, blankets, first-aid kit. Know your main water shutoff location.
After the 2021 freeze disaster, DFW learned to take winter prep seriously. Stock up before forecasted ice storms - stores sell out fast. Consider a generator or battery backup for medical needs.
Annual Maintenance
Once-per-year tasks that protect your biggest investment. Schedule these proactively - don't wait for problems.
Get a professional roof inspection to check for damaged shingles, flashing issues, vent damage, and signs of leaks. Many roofers offer free inspections. Document everything with photos.
DFW roofs take a beating from hail, UV rays, and extreme heat. Most insurance policies cover hail damage. After any storm with quarter-sized+ hail, get a free inspection. Claims must be filed within 1 year.
Professional termite inspection checks for mud tubes, wood damage, and active infestations. Texas has aggressive Formosan and subterranean termites. Early detection saves thousands.
Texas is one of the highest termite-risk states in the US. Annual inspections are essential. Many pest companies include termite inspections with quarterly service. Treatment costs $1,000-3,000; damage repairs can hit $10,000+.
If you have a septic system, pump it every 3-5 years depending on household size and usage. Inspect for leaks, cracks, and drain field issues. Keep records of all service.
Most DFW urban/suburban homes use city sewer, but rural areas rely on septic. Never flush wipes, grease, or chemicals. Septic system replacement costs $10,000-30,000 - regular pumping is cheap insurance.
Professional duct cleaning removes dust, allergens, mold, and debris from your HVAC system. Especially important if you have pets, allergies, or recently completed renovations.
DFW's dust and pollen accumulate fast in ducts. If you see dust puffing from vents when AC kicks on, it's time. Avoid $99 duct cleaning scams - legitimate service costs $400-800 for thorough cleaning.
The anode rod prevents tank corrosion by sacrificing itself. When it's depleted, the tank rusts out. Replacing this $20-50 rod every few years extends tank life by 5-10 years.
DFW's hard water eats through anode rods fast - check every 3 years. If you hear rumbling/popping from the heater, it's likely sediment buildup. Replacing the rod is $100-200 vs. $1,500+ for a new tank.
Remove dead branches, thin crowns, and trim limbs within 10 feet of your home or power lines. Proper pruning improves tree health and prevents storm damage.
DFW storms bring high winds and occasional tornadoes. Overhanging branches damage roofs, gutters, and siding. Get quotes from certified arborists, not general landscapers. Never trim near power lines yourself.
Pressure wash siding, driveway, walkways, and patio to remove dirt, mildew, and stains. Use appropriate pressure (1,500-3,000 PSI) and techniques to avoid damage.
DFW dust and pollen coat everything. Spring is ideal for pressure washing. Rent a pressure washer for $60-100/day or hire a pro. Be careful with vinyl siding - too much pressure causes damage.
Inspect all major appliances: refrigerator coils, dishwasher seals, washer hoses, dryer vents, oven door seals. Replace worn parts before they fail catastrophically.
Check washer supply hoses annually - a burst hose can dump 650+ gallons per hour, causing $10,000+ in water damage. Replace rubber hoses with braided stainless steel for peace of mind.
Take photos/videos of every room and major possessions. Document serial numbers, receipts, and values. Store digitally in cloud. Review insurance coverage limits annually.
After major storms, insurance claims are common in DFW. Without documentation, you'll struggle to prove what you owned. Use a free app like Sortly or store photos in Google Photos. Update after major purchases.
Maintenance Budget Calculator
The 1% Rule recommends budgeting 1% of your home's value annually for maintenance. Some experts suggest 2% for older homes or harsh climates like DFW's extreme heat and storms.
Calculate Your Budget
Enter your home's value and age to get personalized budget recommendations for DFW maintenance costs.
DFW's extreme heat (100+ days above 90°F), hail storms, and expansive clay soil increase maintenance costs 15-25% above national averages. Budget accordingly for HVAC, roofing, and foundation care.
Home Systems Lifespan Guide
Know when major systems will need replacement so you can budget accordingly. DFW's climate affects some systems differently than national averages.
DFW's extreme heat, UV exposure, and hail storms reduce lifespan vs. national average of 20-30 years. Inspect annually after year 15.
DFW's 100+ days above 90°F significantly reduces AC lifespan. National average is 15-20 years. Regular maintenance extends life.
DFW's hard water accelerates sediment buildup and anode rod consumption. Tankless units last 20+ years but cost more upfront.
Seal failure (foggy windows) is common sign of replacement need. Energy savings from new windows can offset cost over time.
Vinyl: 20-40 years. Fiber cement: 30-50 years. Brick: 100+ years with proper maintenance. Hail can damage vinyl.
May need upgrade sooner if adding EV charger, pool, or major appliances. Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels should be replaced immediately.
Opener: 10-15 years. Door: 20-30 years. Springs typically need replacement every 7-12 years with normal use (2 cycles/day).
DFW's expansive clay soil causes ongoing movement. 60%+ of DFW homes need some foundation work. Consistent moisture management is key.