December maintenance for a marine climate
Mild and wet: moisture, moss, gutters and ventilation matter more than extreme temperatures.
3 tasks this month. The median typical first freeze across the region’s counties is Nov 11 and the last is Mar 29; your county can differ by weeks.
December3 tasks
- This monthPress 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.
- WatchDegrease the range-hood filter.
Grease-clogged hood filters stop pulling smoke and grease out of the kitchen and can feed a stovetop fire.
How
Pop the metal filter out and soak it in hot water with dish soap and baking soda, or run it through the dishwasher if the maker allows.
- WatchRun bath and kitchen fans during and after showers and cooking.
In a damp winter, indoor moisture condenses on cold windows and in the attic.
How
Run fans 20 minutes after showers, check the attic for frost or damp sheathing on cold mornings, and wipe window condensation.