A list of all things that should be done for a single-family home. Includes scheduled reminders for all of them.

<a href="https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/green-living/eco-friendly/how-to-improve-your-indoor-air-quality/" target="_self">Clean the furnace filter</a>

<a href="https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/how-to-clean-bathroom-fixtures/" target="_self">Clean faucets and aerators</a>

Inspect tub and sink drains for debris; <a href="https://www.wikihow.com/Unclog-a-Bathtub-Drain" target="_self">unclog</a> if necessary

<a href="https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/home-security/how-to-test-smoke-alarms-in-your-home/" target="_self">Test smoke alarms</a>

<a href="https://brinkshome.com/smartcenter/how-to-test-your-smoke-and-carbon-monoxide-detectors" target="_self">Test carbon monoxide detectors</a>

<a href="https://support.firstalert.com/s/article/Testing-Fire-Extinguishers" target="_self">Check fire extinguishers</a>

<a href="https://www.thespruce.com/test-ground-fault-interrupter-outlets-1152422" target="_self">Test all ground-fault circuit interrupters</a>

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oykWyx7EKmg" target="_self">Inspect extension cords for wear</a>

Annual <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTqjoWyH1Js" target="_self">spray silicon spray on springs </a>

Check gaps in garages door. Check <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/s/garage%2520door%2520bottom%2520seal?NCNI-5" target="_self">runner seal on bottom</a>.

Consider <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B086BDFJHL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_self">Rodent traps</a> - along wall edges.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhu2h9G5mns" target="_self">Check for fluid leaks</a> on floor underneath car.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@twinhomeexperts/video/6999608574259334405?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1&q=dishwasher%20drain%20hose&t=1641325565589" target="_self">Check drain hose location</a>

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rq8jDIak5Uk" target="_self">Check and unclog your air gap</a>

<a href="https://youtu.be/hs5N7HyDUWo" target="_self">Drain water heater</a> annual

Connect hose to drain outlet on water heater

Open nearest hot water faucet (hot water only) to prevent vacuum

Flush tank by opening water supply valve for 60 seconds each. Do this 2-4x

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fs-qMF7tkY4" target="_self">Inspect Sewer line every 2-3 years</a>

Washing Machine - Not a ton of work - but doing these few things will keep things running (and smelling) properly

Run a Tub Clean cycle (<a href="https://www.target.com/p/clr-calcium-lime-and-rust-remover-28-fl-oz/-/A-13821647#lnk=sametab" target="_self">use 1/2 cup CLR</a> in detergent tray) - keeps the machine de-funkified. Prevents odors from creeping into your clothing.

<a href="https://www.lg.com/us/support/video-tutorials/lg-front-load-washer-cleaning-the-drain-pump-filter-CT10000012-20150206838321" target="_self">Check/Clean Drain Pump</a> filter - coins, hairpins, get caught by this trap. but you need to check and empty it every 3 mos or so.

Washing Machine - <a href="https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-front-load-washer-maintenance-CT10000010-1400786418920" target="_self">Check/Clean Water Inlet Filter</a>. Grit, grains of sand and small debris can slow your inlet water flow. Easy quick check.

Vacuum Dryer Vent duct: Prevent fire risk <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Holikme-Attachment%EF%BC%8CDryer-Attachment-Brush%EF%BC%8CLint-Remover%EF%BC%8CBlue/dp/B089Q4QHTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=vent%2Bbrush%2Bdryer&qid=1634232247&sr=8-4&th=1" target="_self">Vent brush drill attachment every 6mos</a>

<a href="https://youtu.be/O0R6XudHV7s" target="_self">Check belt and idle wheel lubricate</a>

Inspect flashing, shingles, chimneys for - a drone is great for this. The video will make it easier to get an estimate.

Inspect attic for water leakage on interior roof, around vents and sunroofs. Look for rodent activity/droppings.

Check screens for holes, tears. Patch, if need be or <a href="https://youtu.be/UMDuYmHTabU?t=13" target="_self">replace screens</a>.&nbsp;

Remove screens annually and vacuum spider eggs.

Pull tab face inwards for easy removal. Replace broken tabs.

Check weatherstripping. Saves energy, prevents rodents.

Gather Documentation - You'll be happy checking this once per year

Keep cloud folder for all manuals, documents, records.

<a href="https://www.travelers.com/resources/weather/emergency-preparedness/home-inventory-checklist" target="_self">Video home inventory</a> for insurance at least annually. Send share link to insurance company. Keep 2 years of recordings.

Scan all items worth more than ~$500 with serial number, and warranty info. This would be required in case of loss due to fire, flood, etc.

Check all outlets for proper wiring with this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Receptacle-Tester-Klein-Tools-RT210/dp/B01AKX8L0M/ref=sxin_12_pa_sp_search_thematic_sspa?cv_ct_cx=outlet+tester&dchild=1&keywords=outlet+tester&pd_rd_i=B01AKX8L0M&pd_rd_r=62deba69-c773-4042-880c-eb8f6219e4ae&pd_rd_w=GTDDf&pd_rd_wg=huVFU&pf_rd_p=f21da57e-06e4-46a5-9148-e2dea2e78384&pf_rd_r=T7QXJ56TX4HYFASB2A6H&qid=1634232844&sr=1-1-a73d1c8c-2fd2-4f19-aa41-2df022bcb241-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFXQ0QzWVE4SVA5OTAmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAwNTc3MjMzR1dQM0MyV044VkZCJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAyMzIxODYzUDBWTUQyTllZVjJYJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3Bfc2VhcmNoX3RoZW1hdGljJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==" target="_self">simple tool</a>

Check under all sinks for any water leakage/damage

Clean bathroom circulating vents for dust. Remove cover and wipe or vacuum.

Check toilet tank for clean seals, no leaks

Check all outlets - no loose outlets/covers or exposed wiring.

Store all your real estate inspection files, purchase records. This will really come in handy should you sell your home.

Check &amp; clear all gutters for debris. Make sure there are <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/Amerimax-Home-Products-Universal-Aluminum-Leaf-Strainer-21348/303446742" target="_self">gutter screens</a> over all downspout drains

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVlJ_Yw1Ze8" target="_self">Inspect perimeter for any holes pencil-sized or larger</a> - mice can enter that size. (dime-size for rats). Fill gaps with fill fabric (see Gear)

Inspect all caulk lines around toilets, tubs, shower. Repair any broken caulk.

Ceiling fans - reverse fan direction (Spring: <a href="https://www.hunterfan.com/blogs/hunter-blog/ceiling-fan-direction-for-summer-and-winter" target="_self">CounterClockwise</a>, Winter: <a href="https://www.hunterfan.com/blogs/hunter-blog/ceiling-fan-direction-for-summer-and-winter" target="_self">Clockwise</a>)

Ducts - inspect every 2-3 years, professional duct cleaning. They will vacuum out dust buildup. This makes a big difference in air quality.

Locate and label Gas shutoff - in an emergency it will much smoother if you drill this once per year.

<a href="https://youtu.be/ck3RtAhtuZk" target="_self">Check &amp; clean filter</a>

Use 1/4” metal mesh (<a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/Fencer-Wire-1-4-in-x-3-ft-x-5-ft-23-Gauge-Hardware-Cloth-CA23-3X5MF14/307313100" target="_self">hardware cloth</a>) for crawlspace &amp; external vents, larger holes. Staple gun with 1/4"-1/2" staples - for securing hardware cloth

Check garage door seals - replace weatherstripping if necessary

Check roofline, fasciae. Fill gaps with fill fabric (see Gear)

<a href="https://youtu.be/GDNJ9zZqIjk?t=11" target="_self">Wasps check spring</a>

<a href="https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/how-to-clean-kitchen-sinks-drains/" target="_self">Clean the garbage disposal</a>

Keep all product manuals in a <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-storage-containers/" target="_self">plastic bin</a> in one place.

Keep a list of all active warranties, and expiration dates. Toss out the expired ones. Take advantage of the current ones.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzDNFuiAESE" target="_self">Hose off outdoor AC fins every summer</a>

Label all circuit breakers on your electrical panel. How many times did you wish this was done?

Inspect all conduit for gaps near sinks, plumbing lines. (rodents ill travel through these wall gaps). Stuff with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006GQQVDW?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_self">Rodent-proof fill fabric</a> (won't rust).

Keep stink bugs and lady bugs out of home: mix vinegar and ground cumin in spray bottle. Spray outside around window edges where they are coming in.&nbsp;

Keep spiders out of your home: mix water and cayenne pepper ground and spray around outside window sills

Check/<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFAvMCRk_FA" target="_self">Wash metal screens</a> in dishwasher

Check Carbon Filters: Soak/clean/replace (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=carbon+filters+hood&crid=1GPPQ5BZPP20D&sprefix=carbon+filters+hood%2Caps%2C235&ref=nb_sb_noss_2" target="_self">Carbon Filter Replacements</a> - confirm your compatibility)

Exhaust Fan Hood - Check this to prevent fire hazard from grease buildup

<a href="https://www.kidde.com/home-safety/en/us/fire-safety/fire-extinguishers-for-home/#0" target="_self">Quick Review</a> that you have protection where you need it in your home

Flush Tankless (annually for hard water, every 3-4yrs for soft water)

female-female hoses for cold and hot water each (2)

Home Maintenance Checklist

Here are the most common actions to help you navigate your way around.

Make a Checklist from a Template

Copy items from another list "Side by Side" copy. (remix)

Press the + button in the upper right&nbsp;

Embed a checklist inside another checklist

Desktop: To enter edit mode, click the Edit button. (See attached photo for mobile icon).

Mobile: To enter edit mode, click the Edit icon at the top of the list card. (See image attached)

This feature lets you embed a checklist inside any of your other checklists

Works at top level only (not in indented sub-lists). Will be expanded later.

[[Title]] is Case Sensitive

Add [[Checklist Title]] inside double brackets

Schedule the entire list - or only specific items

Go to the Checklist Tab and Click "New Scheduled Checklist"

Making a checklist from a template is like making a paper photocopy. You are making a static instance of a list that you can check the boxes, share to someone else to complete, and retain a copy of that specific list.

You can make as many checklists from a template as you like.

You can rename the name of each checklist - overwriting the Checklist name

You can edit the description to customize each list.

Example: You have an Airbnb, and each time a guest departs, you want to give a link to a cleaning crew to complete and check items as they are completed. You can make a Run for each time you need the list to be completed.

Often, you may want to set a checklist for a specific date and time, or have it schedule every week or every 18 days. ChainList allows you to schedule as many lists as you like - each with their own schedule.

When a Scheduled list occurs, you (and every subscriber to that list) will get an email notifying them that there is a List that is due to be completed.

Sometime you may want to grab useful parts of yours or someone else's list. This feature lets you copy entire sub-lists and items from any of your lists, lists you subscribe to, lists you have branched from others, and Community shared lists.

In Edit mode, you will see this at the bottom of your list "Copy List Items"

Click that, and a search window will pop up. Search for terms to find other lists to copy items from.

(Due to the screen size required, this feature is only available on desktop browsers.)

Add <a href="https://chainlist.com/checklists/LiHJkdKWnu" target="_self">hyperlinks</a>, bold, italic, underlined, <del>strikeout</del> text

In Edit mode, select any text and a formatting menu will appear

You can change the order and move list items up, down, indent, or de-dent into and out of sub-lists.

You can access these from the bottom of every screen in Edit mode (Desktop mode only)

Shift+Enter = Insert item above current item

Mobile/Touch/Trackpad method

In Edit mode press and hold the double-line icon to the left and drag &amp; drop the item up/down, or to sub-list or top-list level.

You can also use Trackpad to drag this icon to move the item where you want it to "drop"

When you edit the embedded checklist source, those changes will be reflected in every instance of the embed

Subscribe to a Checklist

How to Subscribe to a List: Click 🔍 or Choose <a href="https://www.chainlist.com/community" target="_self">Explore</a> to find a checklist that looks interesting.

What this means: You can subscribe to any checklist that others make, or make on for others to subscribe to. This means you will see the list in your “My Checklists” feed, and when that list is updated by the author, you will see their changes.

Notifications: A subscription also means you will receive all scheduled email notifications for that list. This means the list acts like an "external memory" and only notifies you when it's some for something to be done.

Click ”Subscribe" on any list.

You will be presented with any scheduled notifications for that list.

You can make your own schedules for this list.

What this means: Sometimes you want to start with someone else’s list - and then customize it for yourself. This is called a Copy.

How to Copy a List: Click 🔍 or Choose <a href="https://www.chainlist.com/community" target="_self">Explore</a> to find a checklist that looks interesting. Click the Copy button

You will be presented with any scheduled notifications for that list. You can use or discard the schedule that comes with the list.

List Activity - You can always see a feed of the activity of any of your lists, including when they have been edited, when Runs have occurred, etc. To access this, you click the Activity Tab at the top of the List Card.

Item Info: If you copy a list item from another list, you can see that information here on the right side of any list item indicated by the 3-dot menu. Click (i) info to see and link back to the source list you copied from. ⇨

You might want to make sure your keyboard is set to "US International PC keyboard"

The QR code will display differently depending on who scans it (or accesses the QR url)

If the list author creates it, they will see that list, and the schedule and previous lists

If any public or anonymous user scans the QR code, they will only see that single list and nothing else.

You can test this by opening a private (incognito) tab in your browser - and scanning a QR code to try it.

At any time you wish to modify a list to suit your needs, you can convert a Subscription to a Copy.

Any list you share (via Unlisted URL or via the Community, then anyone else can Subscribe or make copies of your list. This is where people can "chain" together parts of many lists.

This starts a kind of "Social Knowledge Management" where people can share info and useful information across any kind of use case. You can see changes to source lists or lists that have been copied from yours - and pull in changes back into your version.

Checklists act like permanent copies of a template - which gives an audit trail for each time you (or someone you send it to) complete it.

You can make a manual list of any template by clicking on any checkboxes. If you are logged in, it will save that list on the Checklist tab.

<a href="https://discord.gg/knVkTucet2" target="_self">Join our Discord</a> - for community support and updates

ChainList basics

Turn pump on allowing it to pump out any remaining  water (about a cupful)

Open vent slightly to allow some air - but not rain to enter

Empty all food from RV - shelves, cabinets, fridge

Prop fridge door open for air circulation

Holding Tanks- lubricate dump valve shafts

Battery - Recharge and add water, if necessary

Store battery in cool, dry place. Trickle charge as needed

Cover windows with newspaper/cardboard to Prevent fabric fading

Cover range hood, fridge, furnace vents with plastic

Inspect all roof vents and replace if necessary

Supports and bri that metal parts should be cleaned and coated with silicon annually

Axle &amp; suspension should be inspected frequently

Battery terminals and cables cleaned and inspected.

Check Propanbe tank mounting supports are secure

LP Gas line checks - using solution bubble test

Rust check - Roof, Body, Underbelly every 90 days

Check/Infllate Tires Front 65psi, Rear 80psi

Shore line power cords - make sure 3rd prong is present! 10gauge 15Amp

<a href="https://youtu.be/DoLVxE3lvOs" target="_self">Water (38 gallons)</a>

RV Checklists

Minerals slowly degrade all water heaters. Simply flishing them annually can increase the life of every water heater. Same for tankless.

<a href="https://youtu.be/hs5N7HyDUWo" target="_self">Drain water heater</a> (Tank type)

Hose - long enough to extend from your water heater to the outside ground to drain.

<a href="https://www.amazon.com/DEKOPRO-Submersible-Thermoplastic-Electric-Portable/dp/B09ZV2364K?content-id=amzn1.sym.4e7a2229-074e-44de-95c4-9fd858f46295%3Aamzn1.sym.4e7a2229-074e-44de-95c4-9fd858f46295&crid=NC6WVLO9XF8D&cv_ct_cx=submersible%2Bwater%2Bpump&keywords=submersible%2Bwater%2Bpump&pd_rd_i=B09ZV2364K&pd_rd_r=7f7ded33-8d63-48cd-bd3a-60d590971d1d&pd_rd_w=3cVzq&pd_rd_wg=Nq8DW&pf_rd_p=4e7a2229-074e-44de-95c4-9fd858f46295&pf_rd_r=FBMWR729RGG28PDFH310&qid=1670295439&sprefix=submersible%2Caps%2C228&sr=1-1-a73d1c8c-2fd2-4f19-aa41-2df022bcb241-spons&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzSVRST1RJSVY0NzA0JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNDIzODc5NFhFUElQVFZXM09XJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA3MjA1MTYzUFkzVjdDN1hSUVpZJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3Bfc2VhcmNoX3RoZW1hdGljJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ&th=1" target="_self">Submersible pump</a>

<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077XWBJGM?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_self">female-female hoses</a> for cold and hot water each (2)

Flush and clean tankless unit (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woKVYtf2Ihg" target="_self">YouTube how-to video</a>)

Rinse pump, hoses, and water heater with fresh water

Clean filter screen on water heater (see <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woKVYtf2Ihg" target="_self">video</a>)

Flush your Water Heater Annually

Here's a list that every garage owner should subscribe to. Not a lot, but worth doing. Subscribe to get reminders.

Annual <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTqjoWyH1Js" target="_self">spray silicon spray on springs</a>. This is the #1 cause of garage door failure. Easy to do.&nbsp;

Inspect walls for holes, chewing marks. If critters are getting in, this is one easy way.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhu2h9G5mns" target="_self">Check for fluid leaks</a> on floor underneath car. It's a useful way to monitor you car - and alert your mechanic.

Garage Maintenance

Lint can build up in the exhaust port - and create a fire risk. This list won't let you forget to check them.

Prevent fire risk <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Holikme-Attachment%EF%BC%8CDryer-Attachment-Brush%EF%BC%8CLint-Remover%EF%BC%8CBlue/dp/B089Q4QHTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=vent%2Bbrush%2Bdryer&qid=1634232247&sr=8-4&th=1" target="_self">Vent brush drill attachment every 6mos</a>

<a href="https://youtu.be/O0R6XudHV7s" target="_self">Check belt and idle wheel lubricate</a> - (video shows easy way to service internals)

Every 3 years - internal cleaning and maintenance

Yes, even your Dryer needs a bit of care

The average repair to a washing machine is $450. Replacement cost is $700-1000. Do these regularly.

Run a Tub Clean cycle (<a href="https://www.target.com/p/clr-calcium-lime-and-rust-remover-28-fl-oz/-/A-13821647#lnk=sametab" target="_self">use 1/2 cup CLR</a> in detergent tray)

Wipe/Clean/Bleach inner door and rubber gasket to disinfect and deodorize.

<a href="https://www.lg.com/us/support/video-tutorials/lg-front-load-washer-cleaning-the-drain-pump-filter-CT10000012-20150206838321" target="_self">Check/Clean Drain Pump</a> filter

<a href="https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-front-load-washer-maintenance-CT10000010-1400786418920" target="_self">Check/Clean Water Inlet Filter</a>

The best way to extend the life of your Washing Machine

Here's a good overall list to cover more extensive hikes

18-26 litre daypack with raincover (<a href="https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/hikelite-26-HIKELITE26.html" target="_self">Osprey</a>)

rain jacket (<a href="https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/" target="_self">Outdoor research</a>)

biodegradable bags for wet clothes &amp; garbage

Headlamp (<a href="https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/Headlamps/ZIPKA" target="_self">Petzl Zipka</a>) or (<a href="https://www.rei.com/product/173964/black-diamond-spot-350-headlamp?cm_mmc=aff_AL-_-148854-_-184698-_-NA&avad=184698_f2841ec99" target="_self">Black Diamond 350 spot</a>)

<a href="https://leki-store.mwrc.net/en/product.php?product_id=71973" target="_self">Hiking poles</a> (via <a href="https://Craigmod.com" target="_self">Craig Mod</a>)

Stretchy athletic tape for feet/hotspots if needed

Hiking - Full day or longer

Even small leaks can lead to damage and high costs. Doing the following chores a few times a year will save you a lot of trouble.

Locate and label water main shutoff. This is a good practice to ensure you and others know where this is located if you ever need to turn off the entire water to a home.

<a href="https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/how-to-clean-bathroom-fixtures/" target="_self">Clean faucets and aerators</a> - they can accumulate debris and mineral deposits which can impede the flow of water pressure. Easy to check and clean.

Check under all sinks for any <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIgllzb4YSo" target="_self">water leakage/damage</a>

Inspect all caulk lines around toilets, tubs, shower. <a href="https://youtu.be/AcgErpZ_D0c?t=60" target="_self">Repair any broken caulk.</a>

Regular Plumbing Inspection and Maintenance

Plumbing - Basic regular checks you can do to avoid common problems.

Apps, packing, tips for domestic or international travel.

<a href="https://www.flightyapp.com/" target="_self">Flighty</a> - Pilot-grade flight tracking. For everyone.

<a href="https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/how-to-clean-a-hydration-bladder.html" target="_self">Sterilize hydro pack before and after</a>

<a href="https://kk.org/cooltools?s=travel" target="_self">Every item tagged Travel on CoolTools</a>

<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/travel-guide/" target="_self">Travel Guide on Wirecutter</a>

<a href="https://geni.us/AEmT" target="_self">Portable hotel door lock</a> (via <a href="https://www.getrevue.co/profile/nomadico" target="_self">Nomadico</a>)

Imodium- Bourdain <a href="https://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/news/a24932/anthony-bourdain-how-to-travel/" target="_self">says so</a>

Travel Packing Checklist

Discover and subscribe to our top checklists.

Curated by ChainList