January maintenance for a cold climate

January10 tasks

1. This month
   Press the test button on every smoke and CO alarm.

   An alarm you have not heard in months may have a dead battery or sensor. NFPA recommends testing smoke alarms at least once a month.

   How

   Hold the test button until it sounds. Anything silent or chirping: replace the battery, or the whole alarm if it is past its date.

   MonthlyEvery homeNFPA: Smoke alarms
2. This month
   Check the HVAC filter and replace it if it is gray or clogged.

   ENERGY STAR advises inspecting filters monthly: a dirty filter raises energy costs and can damage the equipment, leading to early failure.

   How

   Turn the system off, slide the filter out, and match the size printed on its edge. Arrow on the frame points toward the blower.

   Every 3 monthsBecause of a system you told us aboutENERGY STAR: HVAC maintenance checklist
3. This month
   Keep the furnace and water-heater intake and exhaust vents clear of snow.

   High-efficiency appliances vent through plastic pipes on the side wall. If drifting snow blocks them the appliance shuts down, or exhaust can back up.

   How

   After each storm, clear the pipes and a foot around them. Keep CO alarms working on every level.

   SeasonalCold climate regionCPSC: Carbon monoxide
4. This month
   After heavy snow, check the eaves for icicles and ice dams.

   Ice dams back meltwater under shingles and into walls. They are a symptom of heat escaping into the attic.

   How

   Rake the first 3 to 4 feet of snow off the roof from the ground. Note where dams form; air sealing the attic there is the lasting fix.

   SeasonalCold climate regionReady.gov: Winter weather
5. Watch
   Clean the dishwasher filter.

   Most current dishwashers have a manual filter; when it clogs, dishes come out dirty and the drain pump strains.

   How

   Twist out the filter at the bottom of the tub, rinse it under the tap and scrub gently with a soft brush.

   Every 3 monthsEvery home
6. Watch
   Check the water heater is set near 120°F.

   CPSC urges lowering water heaters to 120°F: hotter water causes serious scalds in seconds, especially for young children and older adults, and the lower setting also saves energy.

   How

   Run hot water at the tap closest to the heater for a minute and measure with a kitchen thermometer; adjust the dial in small steps.

   YearlyBecause of a system you told us aboutCPSC: Avoiding tap water scalds
7. Watch
   Test for radon (every two years and after major renovations).

   EPA recommends testing every home for radon, whatever the zone; closed-house winter conditions suit short-term tests.

   How

   Use a short-term test kit in the lowest lived-in level, keep windows closed per the kit, and mail it to the lab. EPA recommends fixing at 4 pCi/L or more.

   Every 2 yearsEvery homeEPA: Radon
8. Watch
   Record a dated walk-through video of every room for your insurance file.

   A before-record of finishes, contents and serial plates is the simplest proof you can make before you ever need a claim.

   How

   Narrate as you go, open closets, and save the file somewhere off the phone (and to My Home).

   YearlyEvery home
9. Watch
   If the fridge has a water filter, replace it.

   Most refrigerator makers specify a filter change about every six months.

   How

   Check the model’s filter part number in the manual or on the filter itself.

   Twice a yearEvery home
10. Watch
    Watch for condensation on windows and keep winter humidity around 30 to 50%.

    Water on cold glass means indoor humidity is high for the outdoor temperature, and it rots sills and grows mold.

    How

    Run bath and kitchen fans, turn down a humidifier, and wipe sills. EPA suggests indoor humidity between 30 and 50%.

    SeasonalCold climate regionEPA: A brief guide to mold, moisture and your home