10 Home Maintenance Tasks You're Probably Forgetting

You change your HVAC filter religiously. You mow the lawn every week. You even remember to clean the gutters twice a year.

But when's the last time you cleaned your dryer vent? Or tested your sump pump? Or flushed your water heater?

These are the tasks that slip through the cracks—and they're the ones that cause the most damage when neglected.

In this guide, I'll show you 10 overlooked maintenance tasks that can save you thousands in repairs. Plus, how often to do them and whether you can DIY.

Why These Tasks Get Forgotten

Common reasons:

• ? They're not obvious (out of sight, out of mind)
• ? They seem optional (until disaster strikes)
• ? You don't know they exist (first-time homeowners)
• ? There's no regular reminder system

The solution? A systematic approach to home maintenance that doesn't rely on your memory.

Let's dive into the tasks you're probably forgetting.

Task #1: Clean Your Dryer Vent (Fire Hazard!)

**Why It Matters**

15,000 dryer fires happen every year in the US, and most are 100% preventable.

Lint builds up in your dryer vent over time, restricting airflow. This makes your dryer work harder, run hotter, and increases fire risk.

**How Often**

Every 6-12 months (more often if you do a lot of laundry)

**DIY or Pro?**

DIY if:

• Single-story home
• Short, straight vent run
• You have a dryer vent brush kit ($20)

Hire a pro if:

• Multi-story home
• Long or complex vent system
• Vent goes through walls/roof

Pro cost: $100-200

**How to Do It (DIY)**

1. Unplug dryer and pull away from wall
2. Disconnect vent hose from dryer
3. Use vacuum with hose attachment to remove lint
4. Use dryer vent brush to clean deep into vent
5. Clean lint trap housing
6. Reconnect everything and test

Time required: 30 minutes

**Warning Signs You Need This NOW**

• ?? Clothes take 2+ cycles to dry
• ?? Dryer feels very hot to touch
• ?? Burning smell when running
• ?? Lint around dryer door
• ?? Haven't cleaned vent in 2+ years

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Every 6 months (April and October)

Never Forget Again ?

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Task #2: Test Your Sump Pump

**Why It Matters**

Your sump pump is the only thing preventing basement flooding during heavy rain.

If it fails during a storm, you could face:

• $10,000-30,000 in water damage
• Mold remediation costs
• Ruined belongings
• Structural damage

**How Often**

Every 3-4 months (especially before spring rains)

**DIY or Pro?**

100% DIY (takes 2 minutes!)

**How to Test**

1. Pour a bucket of water into sump pit
2. Pump should activate automatically
3. Water should drain quickly
4. Pump should shut off when empty

That's it!

**Warning Signs of Failure**

• ?? Pump doesn't activate
• ?? Makes grinding/rattling noise
• ?? Runs constantly
• ?? Pump is 7+ years old
• ?? Visible rust or corrosion

**Replacement Cost**

• DIY installation: $150-300 (pump + parts)
• Professional installation: $500-1,200

Pro tip: Keep a backup battery-operated pump ($200-300) for power outages during storms.

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Every 3 months (March, June, September, December)

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Task #3: Flush Your Water Heater

**Why It Matters**

Sediment builds up at the bottom of your water heater tank over time. This:

• Reduces efficiency (costs you $100+ annually)
• Shortens lifespan by 3-5 years
• Can cause tank failure (flooding!)

Flushing removes sediment and extends life dramatically.

**How Often**

Once per year (manufacturer recommendation)

**DIY or Pro?**

DIY-friendly! (unless you're uncomfortable with plumbing)

Pro cost: $100-150

**How to Do It**

1. Turn off power/gas to heater
2. Turn off cold water supply valve
3. Connect garden hose to drain valve
4. Run hose outside or to drain
5. Open drain valve
6. Let water run until clear (5-15 minutes)
7. Close drain valve
8. Turn water supply back on
9. Once tank is full, turn power/gas back on

Time required: 20-30 minutes

Watch Video Tutorial ?

**Bonus Benefits**

• Lower energy bills (10-15% savings)
• Hotter water
• Quieter operation
• Longer tank life

**Warning Signs You Need This**

• Rusty or discolored water
• Rumbling noises
• Takes longer to heat water
• Haven't flushed in 3+ years

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Annually (same month each year)

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Task #4: Check Your Attic for Pests and Insulation

**Why It Matters**

Pests cause $5 billion in property damage annually in the US.

Your attic is prime real estate for:

• Rodents (mice, rats, squirrels)
• Insects (termites, carpenter ants)
• Wildlife (raccoons, bats, birds)

They can:

• Chew electrical wiring (fire hazard!)
• Damage insulation
• Create health hazards
• Cause structural damage

**How Often**

Every 6 months (spring and fall)

**DIY or Pro?**

DIY inspection (15 minutes)

Pro remediation if you find issues

**What to Look For**

• Droppings: Small pellets indicate rodents
• Nesting materials: Shredded insulation, debris
• Chew marks: On wood, wires, insulation
• Strange smells: Urine, decay
• Damaged insulation: Flattened, missing, torn
• Entry points: Gaps, holes, damaged vents

**Safety First**

• Wear a mask (dust, droppings)
• Wear gloves
• Use proper lighting
• Watch your step (only step on joists!)

**If You Find Pests**

DIY:

• Set traps for mice/rats
• Seal entry points with steel wool + foam
• Remove nesting materials

Call a pro for:

• Large infestations
• Squirrels, raccoons, bats
• Termites or carpenter ants
• Extensive damage

Cost: $300-2,000 depending on severity

**Insulation Check**

While you're up there, check insulation depth:

• Recommended: R-30 to R-60 (10-20 inches)
• If inadequate: Add more (DIY or pro)

ROI: Pays for itself in 2-3 years through energy savings

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Every 6 months (April and October)

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Task #5: Clean Refrigerator Coils

**Why It Matters**

Dirty coils make your fridge work 30% harder, which means:

• Higher electric bills ($50-100/year wasted)
• Shorter fridge lifespan
• Food spoilage risk

Cleaning takes 10 minutes and saves you hundreds.

**How Often**

Every 6 months

**DIY or Pro?**

100% DIY (easiest task on this list!)

**How to Do It**

1. Unplug refrigerator
2. Locate coils (usually back or underneath)
3. Use vacuum with brush attachment
4. Gently brush away dust and debris
5. Wipe down with damp cloth
6. Plug back in

Time: 10 minutes

Cost: {{CONTENT}}

**Where Are the Coils?**

• Older fridges: On the back
• Newer fridges: Underneath behind a grille

Check your manual if unsure.

**While You're There**

Also clean:

• Condenser fan (if accessible)
• Area under/behind fridge
• Door gaskets (wipe with mild soap)

**Impact**

• ? Fridge runs quieter
• ? Cools more efficiently
• ? Lasts 3-5 years longer
• ? Saves $50-100/year on electricity

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Every 6 months (when you change HVAC filters)

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Task #6: Inspect and Clean Chimney

**Why It Matters**

Chimney fires kill people.

Creosote (a flammable tar-like substance) builds up inside chimneys from burning wood. If ignited, it can:

• Cause a chimney fire (25,000/year in US)
• Spread to your home
• Release carbon monoxide

Even if you don't use your fireplace often, birds and animals can nest in chimneys, blocking airflow.

**How Often**

Once per year (before winter)

**DIY or Pro?**

ALWAYS hire a pro (safety issue!)

Cost: $150-300

**What's Included**

Certified chimney sweep will:

• Inspect for cracks, damage
• Check for creosote buildup
• Remove soot and debris
• Check damper function
• Inspect chimney cap
• Verify proper draft

Time: 1-2 hours

**Warning Signs You Need This NOW**

• ?? Smoke backs up into room
• ?? Strong, unpleasant odor
• ?? Cracked or damaged chimney crown
• ?? Water stains inside firebox
• ?? Visible creosote buildup (black, tar-like)
• ?? You use fireplace regularly

**Even If You Don't Use Your Fireplace**

Still inspect every 2-3 years for:

• Animal nests
• Structural damage
• Rain intrusion

**How to Find a Pro**

Look for:

• CSIA-certified chimney sweep
• Insurance and licensing
• Good online reviews
• Written estimate

Find a Certified Sweep ?

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Annually (September, before winter)

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Task #7: Test Garage Door Auto-Reverse

**Why It Matters**

Garage doors can crush and kill.

The auto-reverse feature is a critical safety mechanism that prevents injury or death if something (or someone) is under the door.

Federal law requires this feature on all garage door openers manufactured after 1993.

**How Often**

Monthly (yes, really!)

**DIY or Pro?**

100% DIY (30 seconds!)

**How to Test**

Test 1: Object Detection

1. Place a 2x4 or cardboard box in door's path
2. Press button to close door
3. Door should reverse immediately upon contact
4. ? PASS if it reverses
5. ? FAIL if it crushes object

Test 2: Photo Eye

1. Start closing door
2. Wave hand through photo eye beam
3. Door should reverse immediately
4. ? PASS if it reverses
5. ? FAIL if door continues

**If It Fails**

Check:

• Photo eyes aligned and clean
• Sensitivity adjustment (see manual)
• Force adjustment (see manual)

If still failing: Call a professional immediately

Cost to repair: $150-500

**Why This Is Critical**

• A garage door weighs 200-400 pounds
• Can cause serious injury or death
• Especially dangerous for children and pets
• Required by law for a reason

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Monthly (1st of every month)

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Task #8: Check Foundation for Cracks

**Why It Matters**

Small cracks become big problems.

Foundation issues can cost:

• Minor repairs: $500-2,000
• Major repairs: $10,000-50,000
• Severe cases: $100,000+

Catching cracks early = cheaper fixes.

**How Often**

Every 6 months (spring and fall)

**DIY or Pro?**

DIY monitoring + Pro for repairs

**What to Look For**

Walk around your home's exterior and interior, checking for:

Outside:

• Horizontal cracks (more serious than vertical)
• Cracks wider than 1/4 inch
• Stair-step cracks in brick/block
• Gaps between foundation and walls
• Water pooling near foundation

Inside:

• Cracks in basement walls
• Doors/windows that stick
• Uneven floors
• Gaps between walls and ceiling
• Cracks above doorways

**When to Call a Pro**

?? Immediately if:

• Horizontal cracks (structural issue!)
• Cracks wider than 1/4 inch
• Cracks growing quickly
• Water seeping through cracks
• Bowing basement walls

**Normal vs. Concerning**

Normal (monitor):

• Hairline vertical cracks (< 1/8 inch)
• Minor settlement cracks
• Stable (not growing)

Concerning (call pro):

• Horizontal cracks (any size!)
• Stair-step cracks in mortar
• Cracks wider than 1/4 inch
• Active water intrusion

**DIY Monitoring**

1. Mark crack endpoints with pencil
2. Write date next to marks
3. Measure width with coin (dime = 1/16", nickel = 1/12")
4. Photograph for reference
5. Check again in 3-6 months

If growing: Call structural engineer ($300-500 for inspection)

**Prevention**

• Grade soil away from foundation (6" drop over 10 feet)
• Keep gutters clean and working
• Extend downspouts 6-10 feet from house
• Don't plant large trees near foundation

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Every 6 months (April and October)

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Task #9: Trim Trees and Shrubs Away from Home

**Why It Matters**

Trees and shrubs touching your home cause:

• Roof damage (scratching, shingle damage)
• Siding damage (scratches, moisture retention)
• Pest highways (rodents use branches to access roof)
• Gutter clogs (leaves and debris)
• Storm damage risk (falling branches)

**How Often**

Once per year (or after major storms)

**DIY or Pro?**

DIY for small branches

Pro for large trees

**The 6-10 Foot Rule**

Keep all branches 6-10 feet away from:

• Roof
• Siding
• Windows
• Gutters
• HVAC units

**DIY Safety**

Safe to DIY:

• Branches under 3 inches diameter
• Can reach from ground with pole saw
• No ladder work above 10 feet

Hire a pro for:

• Large branches (> 3 inches)
• Trees near power lines
• Work above 15 feet
• Dead or diseased trees

**DIY Tools Needed**

• Pole saw or pruning saw
• Hand pruners for small branches
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves
• Sturdy ladder (if needed)

Cost: $50-100 for tools

**Professional Tree Service**

Cost: $300-1,000 (varies by tree size and number)

Included:

• Trimming
• Removal of cuttings
• Safety equipment
• Insurance coverage

**Best Time to Trim**

• Most trees: Late winter/early spring (dormant season)
• Flowering trees: Right after bloom
• Dead branches: Anytime

**Warning Signs**

?? Call a pro if you see:

• Large dead branches
• Cracks in trunk
• Leaning tree
• Root damage
• Disease/pest infestation

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Annually (late winter) + After major storms

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Task #10: Seal Windows and Doors (Air Leaks)

**Why It Matters**

Air leaks waste 10-20% of your heating/cooling costs.

For the average home, that's $200-400 per year literally going out the window.

Sealing air leaks:

• ? Saves $200-400/year
• ? Improves comfort (no drafts!)
• ? Reduces HVAC strain
• ? Pays for itself in 3-6 months

**How Often**

Every 2-3 years (or when you feel drafts)

**DIY or Pro?**

Easy DIY!

Cost: $20-50 in materials

**How to Find Air Leaks**

The Hand Test:

1. Close all windows and doors
2. Turn off HVAC
3. Light a candle or incense stick
4. Hold near window/door frames
5. Watch for smoke movement
6. Mark leaky areas

The Dollar Bill Test:

1. Close door/window on a dollar bill
2. Try to pull bill out
3. If it slides easily = needs weatherstripping

**Materials Needed**

Caulk ($5-8 per tube):

• For gaps that don't move
• Around window frames
• Where siding meets foundation

Weatherstripping ($10-30):

• For moving parts
• Door bottoms (door sweeps)
• Window sashes

Foam Backer Rod ($3-5):

• For large gaps before caulking

**Where to Seal**

• Around window frames
• Around door frames
• Door bottom gaps
• Attic hatch
• Dryer vent
• Where pipes/wires enter home
• Electrical outlets on exterior walls

**How to Apply**

Caulking:

1. Clean and dry surface
2. Cut caulk tube at 45° angle
3. Apply steady bead
4. Smooth with finger or tool
5. Let dry 24 hours

Weatherstripping:

1. Measure gap
2. Cut to length
3. Peel and stick (adhesive-backed)
4. Test door/window operation

**ROI Calculation**

Investment: $50

Annual savings: $300

Payback period: 2 months!

**When to Replace**

Weatherstripping lasts 2-5 years. Replace if:

• Cracked or torn
• No longer seals
• Adhesive failing
• Visible gaps

**Upkeepify Reminder**

Set to: Every 2 years (fall, before winter)

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Bonus Tasks (Honorable Mentions)

While we're at it, here are 5 more often-forgotten tasks:

**11. Clean Range Hood Filter**

• Frequency: Monthly
• Why: Fire hazard, efficiency
• Time: 10 minutes

**12. Check Water Pressure**

• Frequency: Annually
• Why: Detect leaks, pipe issues
• Tool: Pressure gauge ($15)

**13. Test GFCI Outlets**

• Frequency: Monthly
• Why: Safety (prevents electrocution)
• Time: 30 seconds per outlet

**14. Clean Bathroom Exhaust Fans**

• Frequency: Every 6 months
• Why: Prevents mold, improves ventilation
• Time: 15 minutes

**15. Inspect Washing Machine Hoses**

• Frequency: Annually
• Why: Prevent flooding ($5,000+ damage)
• Action: Replace if 5+ years old

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How to Remember All of These (Without Going Crazy)

**Option 1: Upkeepify (Recommended)**

Set up all 15 tasks once. Get automatic reminders forever.

• ? Email reminders
• ? Track completion
• ? Store photos/receipts
• ? Share with family

Cost: $5/month = $60/year

Savings: $1,000-5,000/year in prevented repairs

Try Free for 30 Days ?

**Option 2: Calendar Reminders**

Set up recurring events in Google Calendar:

• Monthly tasks (1st of month)
• Quarterly tasks (1st day of quarter)
• Semi-annual tasks (April 1, October 1)
• Annual tasks (same date each year)

Pro: Free

Con: Easy to dismiss and forget

**Option 3: Home Maintenance Binder**

Create a physical binder with:

• Checklist for each task
• Instructions/photos
• Service records
• Receipt storage

Pro: Tangible, organized

Con: Requires manual tracking

**Option 4: Hire a Handyman**

Schedule quarterly maintenance checks:

• Spring: Check 1-10
• Summer: Recheck critical items
• Fall: Winterization
• Winter: Indoor focus

Cost: $200-400 per visit (4x/year = $800-1,600)

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The Cost of Forgetting

Let's do the math on what neglecting these tasks actually costs:

| Forgotten Task | Frequency Needed | Cost if Forgotten |

|----------------|------------------|-------------------|

| Dryer vent cleaning | 6 months | $15,000 (house fire) |

| Sump pump test | 3 months | $15,000 (flooding) |

| Water heater flush | 1 year | $1,500 (early replacement) |

| Attic inspection | 6 months | $2,000 (pest damage) |

| Fridge coil cleaning | 6 months | $300 (higher bills + early failure) |

| Chimney cleaning | 1 year | $10,000 (house fire) |

| Garage door test | 1 month | Priceless (safety!) |

| Foundation check | 6 months | $20,000 (major repair) |

| Tree trimming | 1 year | $5,000 (storm damage) |

| Air leak sealing | 2 years | $400/year (energy waste) |

Total potential losses from neglect: $69,200+

Cost to prevent everything:

• DIY time: ~4 hours/year
• DIY materials: ~$200/year
• Professional services: ~$800/year

TOTAL COST TO PREVENT: ~$1,000/year

ROI: 6,820%

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Conclusion: An Ounce of Prevention

These 10 tasks take less than 10 hours per year total.

In return, you get:

• ? No emergency repairs
• ? Lower utility bills
• ? Safer home
• ? Longer-lasting systems
• ? Higher home value
• ? Peace of mind

The secret isn't doing the work—it's remembering to do it.

That's where Upkeepify comes in.

**Never Forget Again**

Set up all 10 tasks in 5 minutes. Get reminded automatically. Track completion. Done.

Start Free Trial ?

Risk-free. $5/month. Cancel anytime.

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Printable Checklist

Download the "10 Forgotten Tasks" checklist (PDF):

?? Download Checklist ?

Includes:

• ? All 10 tasks with frequency
• ? DIY vs. Pro guidance
• ? Cost estimates
• ? Safety warnings
• ? Checkboxes to track completion

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Related Articles

• Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist ?
• How to Budget for Home Maintenance ?
• HVAC Maintenance Schedule ?

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