Regular tune-ups cut energy waste, prevent moisture damage, and ensure life-safety devices (such as smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms) work when needed.
Testing smoke alarms monthly and replacing units about every 10 years are widely recommended practices.
Spring (March–May)- Reset After Winter
- HVAC filters: Inspect and replace as needed—dirty filters raise bills and may damage equipment.
- Gutters & downspouts: Clear debris and ensure water drains away from the foundation to prevent seepage.
- Smoke & CO alarms: Press the test button on all units; log results and replace any expired units.
- Moisture check: Inspect basements, bathrooms, and under-sink areas for dampness or visible mold; fix intrusion sources promptly.
Summer (June–August)- Comfort & Efficiency
- Cooling system care: Ensure outdoor condensers are free of obstructions. Replace filters every 1–2 months during heavy use, especially if pets or dust are present.
- Weather seals: Check caulk and weather-stripping around windows/doors to reduce hot-air infiltration and lower tenant cooling costs.
- Common areas: Inspect railings, lighting, and trip hazards in walkways and stairs; correct hazards immediately.
Fall (September–November)- Winterise Early
- Furnace/heat pump service: Schedule a professional check before first use; include filter replacement and thermostat testing.
- Gutters (again): Clean fallen leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and interior leaks.
- Safety devices: Test smoke alarms monthly; change batteries on 9-volt units annually, and replace alarms older than about 10 years. Install CO alarms where fuel-burning appliances are present.
Winter (December–February)- Heat & Life-Safety First
- CO safety: Never allow indoor use of grills, portable stoves, or generators. Place generators at least 20 ft from any opening.
- Heating equipment: Ensure appliances are vented correctly and sloped to exhaust outdoors; investigate any odd odors from gas appliances immediately.
- Frozen-pipe prevention: Insulate exposed pipes, keep thermostats on steady temps (especially during out-of-town periods), and remind tenants to drip faucets in extreme cold.
Quick Reference
| Season | High-Priority Tasks | Frequency / Target |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Replace/clean HVAC filters; clear gutters/downspouts; test smoke/CO alarms; fix moisture intrusion | Filters: check monthly in use; gutters: after storms; alarms: monthly tests; replace every ~10 years |
| Summer | Keep condensers clear; trim vegetation; inspect weather seals; change filters more often if pets/dust | Condenser clearance 2-3 ft; filters every 1–2 months in heavy use |
| Fall | Professional HVAC tune-up before heating; second gutter clean; change batteries on 9-volt alarms | Tune-up: pre-season; gutters: after leaves; batteries: yearly |
| Winter | Enforce CO safety, verify venting, insulate pipes, maintain heat system reliability | Generators ≥ 20 ft away; vent checks once at start of season |
Compliance Notes for Landlords
For rentals receiving any type of housing assistance, ensure qualifying smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide alarms meet updated standards and remain properly maintained throughout the tenancy.
Pro Tips That Save Money
- Document everything: Maintain a maintenance log with date, task, unit, and photos. This helps with tenant issues and future resale.
- Bundle visits: Combine visits for filter changes, alarm tests, and visual checks per season to avoid frequent call-outs.
- Educate tenants: Provide a one-page sheet on winter CO safety and leak/pipe freeze prevention at lease signing and each fall.
A proactive, seasonal maintenance plan keeps tenants safe, reduces energy waste, and prevents expensive surprises.
By pairing monthly alarm tests, smart HVAC filter schedules, thorough gutter and moisture control, and clear CO safety rules, landlords protect both people and property—year-round.
FAQs
Check filters monthly and replace at least every 1–3 months depending on usage, pets, dust level, and filter type. During peak cooling or heating usage, inspect more frequently.
Test smoke alarms monthly, replace batteries annually for units with 9-volt batteries, and replace alarms about every 10 years or per manufacturer instructions.
Never use generators, grills, or fuel-burning heaters indoors. Place generators at least 20 feet from doors or windows, ensure appliances are properly vented, and instruct tenants to report any unusual smells or symptoms immediately.
