A Home Maintenance Checklist Before the Holidays

Home maintenance before the holidays is important because it ensures that your home is a safe and comfortable place to be during the festive period. This includes things like checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, making sure all doors and windows are secure, and ensuring that all appliances are in working order. 

Doing so can help prevent potential accidents, illnesses, or other issues that could arise from not attending to these items. Additionally, home maintenance before the holidays can help keep your home looking nice and can help you avoid costly repairs in the future.

10 Home Maintenance Tasks You Should Complete Before the Holidays

1. Clean Gutters

It is important to clean your gutters before the holidays so that rain and snow can flow properly away from your home. You should use a ladder and scoop out any debris blocking the channels, then flush the gutters with a hose.

2. Check Roof

Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, and clogged gutters. This will help prevent leaks and water damage during the winter months.

3. Insulate Windows and Doors

Adding insulation to your windows and doors will help maintain the temperature inside your home and reduce the amount of energy you use. You can add insulation yourself using weather stripping and caulk.

4. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Make sure that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. Replace batteries if necessary and test them regularly for peace of mind.

5. Check and Clean Fireplace

Make sure that your fireplace is in good working order by checking for buildup and debris. Clean out the chimney and make sure the flue is in good condition.

6. Check Pipes for Leaks

Check for any water leaks in your pipes, as these can cause costly damage to your home. Make sure to check the pipes around sinks, toilets, and water heaters.

7. Clean Dryer Vents

Cleaning your dryer vents will help reduce the risk of a fire. Make sure to clean lint out of the vent, and check for any blockages that may be causing a buildup.

8. Check and Clean Furnace Filters

Make sure to check and clean the furnace filters in your home. This will help keep your air clean and improve the efficiency of your furnace.

9. Service HVAC System

Have a professional service your HVAC system before the holidays to ensure it is in proper working condition. This will help prevent any unexpected problems during the cold weather months.

10. Check Exterior

Look for any cracks or damage to the exterior of your home. Make sure to check windows, doors, and siding for any signs of damage.

How to Keep Your Home Safe During the Holidays?

The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but it’s also a time of increased risk for home safety. During this time, criminals tend to take advantage of busy schedules and poorly lit homes. Here are some tips to help you keep your home safe during the holiday season.

1. Lock all Doors and Windows

Whether you’re home or away, make sure to lock all doors and windows. This helps to deter potential intruders. If you’re away, consider installing a timer on your lights and a security system so it looks like someone’s home even when you’re not.

2. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

If possible, keep your valuables out of sight. This includes electronics, jewelry, cash, and other items that could be tempting to thieves.

3. Don’t Leave Packages in Plain Sight

If you’re having packages delivered to your home, make sure to take them inside as soon as possible. Don’t leave them out in plain sight where they can easily be taken.

4. Use Outdoor Lighting

Make sure to keep your outdoor lighting on at night. This will help to deter criminals and make it easier for you to see who’s coming and going.

5. Ask for Help

If you’re going away for the holidays, consider asking a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your home. They can check your mail, remove any packages that may have been delivered, and keep an eye out for suspicious activity.

6. Don’t Advertise Your Plans

Don’t share your plans on social media or with strangers. This can give criminals an opportunity to target your home when you’re away.

7. Be Careful With Gifts

Be careful when purchasing gifts, especially if you’re shopping online. Make sure to buy from reputable sites and use a secure form of payment.

By following these tips, you can help keep your home safe during the holiday season. Remember, criminals are looking for easy targets, so be sure to take the necessary precautions to make sure your home is secure.

Maintaining Your Home Appliances and Systems Through the Holidays and Beyond

The obligations of homeownership don’t abate with the change of the seasons or holidays. There’s always something to maintain, update, or repair. A home warranty can help you stay on top of things. Coverage through Liberty Home Guard will ensure that your appliances and systems are swiftly and reliably repaired when something goes wrong. We also offer a suite of home services—including gutter cleaning—making it that much easier to work through your seasonal checklists.

Explore our plans by calling (866)-432-1283. You can also use our website for a free quote.