NYC Home Maintenance Checklist | Free Download

🌸 Spring (March–May)

After winter — assess damage, prep for warmer months

Test every smoke and CO detector.NYC law requires working detectors. Replace batteries; full unit every 10 years.
Inspect window AC bracket and unit storage.Brackets corrode after winter. Check before installing AC.
Check caulking around bathtub and sinks.Mold and cracks accumulate over winter. Re-caulk if peeling.
Drain radiator (one-pipe steam systems).Air vent at the top — close it for non-heat season to prevent dust intake.
Clean refrigerator coils.Dust on coils = +20% energy cost. Vacuum behind fridge.
Test GFCI outlets.Press TEST button — should cut power. Reset. If they don't trip — replace.
Check for water damage in ceilings.Spring rain reveals upstairs leaks. Note any new stains.
Lubricate door hinges and locks.WD-40 on hinges, graphite powder in locks. Quick task.

AC season — keep it efficient, prep for storms

Install/reinstall window AC units.Use proper bracket — NYC code requires support beyond the sill.
Clean AC filter monthly.Dirty filter = +15% energy, weak cold air. Vacuum or replace.
Seal window AC perimeter.Foam strip + duct tape stops hot air leak. Reapply each season.
Inspect roof drains and gutters (if accessible).Heavy rain + clogged drain = ceiling leak in walk-up buildings.
Check sump pump (basement / cellar).Pour bucket of water in pit — pump should kick on. Test before storm season.
Re-grout shower tile if stained.Bleach pen for stains. Re-grout fully if cracks appear.
Test running toilet — check flapper.If you hear water cycle on its own, replace flapper ($5).

Heat returns — prep radiators, weatherize

Remove window AC units before October freeze.Frozen condensate cracks coils. Store unit upright.
Replace radiator air vents (one-pipe steam).If yours hisses or won't heat — $10-15 part, 5 min job. See our radiator guide.
Apply window weather-stripping.Foam strips around old NYC windows save 10-20% on heat.
Cover or remove old window AC sleeves.Sleeve cover from Amazon ($15) seals the cold-air leak.
Insulate exposed pipes.Pipe sleeves on exterior-wall plumbing — prevent burst pipe.
Reverse ceiling fan direction.Clockwise on low speed pushes warm air down. Switch on side of fan.
Drain outdoor spigots (houses only).Detach hose, drain, close interior shut-off.
Check smoke detectors AGAIN.Heat season = most fire calls. Don't skip.

Indoors mostly — humidity, drafts, safety

Check radiator angle.Should tilt slightly toward inlet pipe. Shim far end if it bangs.
Identify drafts.Hold a candle near windows/doors — flickers show air gaps.
Maintain indoor humidity 30–50%.Heating dries air. Cheap humidifier prevents cracked wood floors.
Test fire extinguisher.Check pressure gauge in green. Replace if expired (most last 12 years).
Inspect for ice dams (walk-ups, top floor).Icicles + clogged gutters = water under shingles. Notify super.
Open cabinets under sink during cold snaps.Lets warm air reach pipes — prevents bursts.
Check garbage disposal — flush with ice + lemon.Sharpens blades, deodorizes. Cheaper than replacement.

Easy quarterly tasks that compound

Tighten loose hardware.Cabinet hinges, doorknobs, towel bars — 5 minutes saves replacement.
Clean dryer vent.Lint inside the duct = fire risk. Vacuum hose, brush vent.
Inspect caulk around tub and toilet base.Cracked caulk = water reaching subfloor = expensive damage.
Test every faucet aerator.Unscrew, rinse, replace. Restores water pressure.
Check garbage disposal flange seal.Slow drain or moisture under sink — re-seal with plumber's putty.

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