October maintenance for a hot-humid climate

October6 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
   Press TEST and RESET on every GFCI outlet.

   GFCIs in kitchens, baths, garages and outdoors cut power when current leaks to ground. A failed one looks normal until it fails to trip.

   How

   Plug in a lamp, press TEST (the lamp should go off), then RESET. If it does not trip, have an electrician replace it.

   Twice a yearEvery home
4. This month
   Look over the roof, flashing and gutters from the ground with binoculars.

   Missing or lifted shingles, cracked boots around vent pipes and loose flashing are cheap fixes before they leak.

   How

   Walk the whole perimeter. Note anything lifted, missing or rusted and photograph it. Stay off the roof.

   Twice a yearEvery home
5. This month
   Flush the AC condensate drain line.

   In humid months the line runs constantly; algae clogs cause ceiling stains and float-switch shutoffs.

   How

   Find the cleanout tee near the indoor unit, pour in a cup of distilled vinegar, and check the outside end drips freely.

   Every 3 monthsBecause of a system you told us aboutENERGY STAR: HVAC maintenance checklist
6. 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