Set it & forget it. Everyday maintenance tips & items.
SPAKL Maintenance Tips
The information here is a companion the super handy auto-recurring calendar events I built out for you in the SPAKL app. Because, y’know what, taking care of your home and things throughout your daily life doesn’t have to be a huge pain.
Small, consistent maintenance steps, like cleaning filters, testing safety devices, or checking for wear, help prevent big problems before they start. These SPAKL reminders are built to make those steps easier to remember and easier to do. Our goal is to take the guesswork out of upkeep so you can focus on enjoying your space. By tackling tasks one at a time, you’ll keep everything running smoothly, save money on repairs, and feel confident knowing you’re staying ahead of life’s little breakdowns.
Appliances & Fixtures
☕ Descale coffee maker
Every 3 Months
Mineral deposits from hard water clog internal tubing and heating elements, lowering brew temps and extraction quality. Running a descale cycle dissolves that buildup so water flows and heats properly.
Expect hotter, better-tasting coffee and a longer-lasting machine. Always rinse thoroughly after descaling to remove any cleaner residue.
🌀 Clean garbage disposal
Monthly
Food residue hides under the splash guard and in the grind chamber, causing odors and sluggish performance. An ice + salt grind scours the chamber; citrus peels freshen; a quick brush under the guard removes slime.
Regular cleaning keeps blades effective, eliminates smells, and helps prevent drain clogs before they form.
🧽 Replace whole-house water filter
Every 6 Months
Sediment cartridges clog slowly, reducing pressure and allowing contaminants to slip through. Shutting water, relieving pressure, and swapping the cartridge restores flow and protection for fixtures and appliances.
Clean filtration improves taste, reduces scale, and extends the life of dishwashers, washers, and water heaters.
🔥 Deep-clean oven
Every 3 Months
Baked-on grease smokes, smells, and can set off alarms. Using self-clean per the manual or scrubbing racks and the cavity removes residue that insulates heat and affects bake quality.
A clean oven heats evenly, holds temperature better, and keeps your kitchen air cleaner while protecting heating elements and interior finishes.
🌬️ Clean AC condenser fins
Yearly
Dirt and cottonwood fluff clog condenser fins so heat can’t shed outdoors. With power off, a gentle hose rinse from inside out clears debris; combing bent fins restores airflow.
Better airflow means cooler coil temps, lower energy bills, and fewer summertime breakdowns, one of the highest-impact HVAC tasks to DIY.
💧 Replace furnace humidifier pad
Yearly
Hard-water minerals crust over the humidifier media, choking airflow and reducing moisture output. Swapping the pad and cleaning the housing keeps winter humidity stable.
Proper humidity prevents dry skin, static shocks, and cracked woodwork, and it helps your heating feel warmer at lower thermostat settings.
Home Essentials
👕 Clean my dryer lint trap & vent
Yearly
Every load of laundry leaves behind lint, and while the screen catches a lot, plenty sneaks into the vent duct. Start by pulling out the lint trap and brushing away all buildup before vacuuming the cavity. Once a year, disconnect the dryer vent hose and carefully brush or vacuum the duct all the way through to the outside vent. This not only helps your dryer run more efficiently, but more importantly it dramatically reduces the risk of a dangerous lint fire.
Taking the time to do this maintenance protects your home, your family, and your appliance. A clean vent keeps drying times short, saves on energy costs, and extends the lifespan of the machine. It’s one of the simplest, highest-impact safety steps you can take at home.
💧 Flush my water heater
Yearly
Over time, minerals and sediment settle at the bottom of your water heater tank. Once a year, turn off power or gas to the unit, attach a garden hose to the drain valve, and carefully drain a few gallons into a bucket until the water runs clear. This clears out the buildup that makes your heater work harder than it should.
Regular flushing extends the life of the tank, improves heating efficiency, and keeps your water quality high. It also helps avoid premature leaks or expensive replacements down the line, making it one of the smartest investments of an hour’s time each year.
💧 Inspect my water softener salt
Monthly
Lift the lid of your water softener and make sure the brine tank has enough salt pellets. If it’s running low, top it up to keep the system working properly. While you’re there, check for salt bridges (hard crusts forming across the top). Break them up gently with a broom handle so the pellets can dissolve evenly.
A properly maintained water softener prevents scale buildup in your plumbing and appliances, keeps laundry and dishes cleaner, and helps extend the life of everything from your faucets to your washing machine. Just a quick monthly glance avoids big repair bills later.
🧊 Replace my fridge water filter
Every 6 Months
Refrigerator filters slowly clog with impurities. Every six months, swap out the cartridge (usually found inside the fridge compartment or at the base grille). Once replaced, run several cups of water through the dispenser until the flow is steady and clear.
Staying on schedule ensures your drinking water and ice are fresh, clean, and safe. It also protects the fridge’s internal components from buildup and keeps water flow strong, so you don’t end up stressing the dispenser or ice maker.
👨🔧 Replace my HVAC air filter
Every 3 Months
Your furnace and AC rely on a clean filter to breathe. Every three months, pop open the filter slot, slide out the old one, and put in a new filter of the correct size. Always label the frame with today’s date so you know when it’s due again.
Clean filters reduce strain on your HVAC system, improve indoor air quality, and keep your energy bills lower. Skipping this step shortens equipment life and can lead to breakdowns right when you need heating or cooling the most.
🔥 Replace my smoke/CO detector batteries
Yearly
Once a year, replace the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. After swapping, press the TEST button on each device to confirm it sounds. While you’re there, give the units a wipe to clear away dust that can affect sensors.
Detectors are only lifesaving if they’re powered. Fresh batteries and a quick test protect your family by ensuring you’ll be alerted at the first sign of smoke or carbon monoxide, even in the middle of the night.
⚡ Test all my GFCI outlets
Monthly
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are built to prevent shocks in wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and garages. Each month, press the TEST button to confirm power cuts out. Then press RESET to restore. If it doesn’t respond, replace the outlet immediately.
This simple check keeps you protected from accidental electrocution. GFCIs can fail silently, so verifying them monthly is an essential safety habit for every home.
🪵 Clean my deck
Yearly
Pollen, grime, and mildew make decking slick and speed up rot. Sweep thoroughly, then wash with a deck-safe cleaner and a soft brush (or low-pressure rinse). Focus on shady areas and under planters.
A yearly clean restores traction, keeps fasteners and boards healthier, and preps the surface for stain or sealer so finishes last longer.
🔁 Flip/rotate my mattresses
Every 6 Months
Rotating (and flipping, if double-sided) redistributes wear so foam and springs don’t compress in the same spots. Strip bedding, rotate 180°, and vacuum the surface while you’re at it.
This simple habit keeps support consistent, extends mattress life, and can improve sleep comfort over time.
🪛 Inspect & secure my deck
Yearly
Check railings, stairs, and the ledger board for looseness or rot. Tighten lag bolts/screws, replace corroded hardware, and secure any raised fasteners that could catch a foot.
A solid, squeak-free deck is safer and lasts longer. Catching early movement or decay prevents expensive structural repairs later.
🧽 Pressure wash sidewalks & concrete driveways
Yearly
Algae, oil, and winter grime make hardscapes slippery and stained. Use a surface cleaner attachment and keep the wand moving to avoid etching the concrete.
Clean concrete improves curb appeal and traction and helps you spot cracks early while they’re easy to seal.
🛣️ Reseal my asphalt driveway
Every 2 Years
Clean the surface, fill cracks, and roll on sealer in dry, mild weather. Sealer blocks UV and moisture that make asphalt brittle and prone to potholes.
Regular resealing keeps the drive darker, smoother, and longer-lasting, and reduces costly patching later.
🪵 Stain/seal my deck
Every 2 Years
After a thorough clean and dry, apply stain or sealer per product instructions. Work in the shade, keep a wet edge, and allow full cure time before heavy use.
Fresh finish blocks UV and water, reduces checking and splinters, and keeps wood looking its best.
🚿 Clear out shower hair catchers
Monthly
Lift the strainer and pull out hair and soap scum before it mats deeper in the trap. Rinse the cover and run hot water to flush lingering residue.
This 60-second task keeps drains flowing, prevents odors, and helps you avoid harsh chemical uncloggers later.
🌬️ Degrease my range hood filter
Monthly
Slide out the metal mesh filter from under your range hood and soak it in hot, soapy water with a degreasing solution. Scrub gently, rinse thoroughly, and dry before reinstalling.
A clean filter removes smoke and cooking odors more effectively, prevents grease fires, and helps your exhaust fan last longer.
🚿 Descale my showerhead & aerators
Every 3 Months
Unscrew showerheads and faucet aerators, then soak them in vinegar for an hour to dissolve mineral deposits. Scrub gently with a toothbrush and reattach using fresh plumber’s tape if needed.
This keeps water pressure strong, prevents uneven spray patterns, and improves water efficiency. It also stops buildup from damaging your fixtures over time.
🧵 Inspect my exterior caulk/paint
Yearly
Walk around your home and check caulk and paint around windows, doors, and trim. Scrape away cracked areas, reapply caulk, and touch up paint as needed to keep surfaces sealed.
Maintaining your home’s exterior finish keeps water and pests out, protects structural wood, and preserves curb appeal. Small touch-ups now prevent large repairs later.
🏠 Inspect my roof & flashing
Yearly
Using binoculars or safely from the roof edge, check for missing shingles, cracked flashing, or popped nails. Pay close attention to areas around chimneys, skylights, and vents. Schedule repairs promptly if issues are spotted.
A sound roof protects your entire home. Catching damage early prevents leaks, mold growth, and expensive structural repairs.
🚗 Test my garage door auto-reverse
Every 3 Months
Place a block of wood under the door and lower it. The door should reverse immediately upon contact. Also, wave an object across the sensor beam to ensure it stops and reverses properly.
This safety check prevents injuries and damage by ensuring the opener reacts correctly. Regular testing keeps your family and belongings safe.
💦 Test my sump pump
Yearly
Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to trigger the float switch. Confirm the pump activates and water discharges outside. Inspect the discharge line for clogs or freezing risk.
A working sump pump protects your basement from flooding and mold damage. Testing it before storm season avoids unpleasant surprises.
🧹 Vacuum my refrigerator coils
Every 6 Months
Unplug your refrigerator, pull it away from the wall, and use a vacuum or brush to clean the dust off the condenser coils. Wipe the floor underneath before pushing it back.
Clean coils allow the compressor to run efficiently, saving energy and extending the appliance’s lifespan. Dust buildup can make the fridge run hot and shorten its life.
🫧 Clean my washing machine tub
Monthly
Run a tub-clean cycle or hot wash with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. Wipe the rubber gasket around the door and leave it ajar to dry fully after each use.
This prevents musty smells, keeps clothes fresh, and avoids mold growth inside the machine. A clean tub also extends the machine’s life and efficiency.
Home (Seasonal & Upkeep)
🪵 Clean my deck
Yearly
Sweep away leaves, dirt, and debris from your deck surface. Use a mild deck wash or soapy water with a stiff brush to scrub away stains, algae, and slick patches. Rinse thoroughly and let dry. Inspect for loose boards or protruding nails as you go.
A yearly cleaning prevents buildup that can cause rot, mildew, or dangerous slips. It keeps your outdoor space safer and prolongs the life of your deck’s wood or composite surface.
🚿 Clear out shower hair catchers
Monthly
Remove the drain strainer or hair catcher from your shower or tub. Pull out hair and soap scum buildup, discard it, and rinse the strainer under hot water. Pour a kettle of hot water down the drain to keep pipes clear.
Regularly clearing these traps prevents slow drains, foul odors, and costly plumbing clogs. It’s one of the simplest but most effective hygiene and maintenance habits.
🔁 Flip/rotate my mattresses
Every 6 Months
Rotate your mattress 180° to even out wear. If it’s a double-sided mattress, flip it completely over as well. While it’s off the bed, vacuum the surface and check your bed frame for loose hardware.
Regular rotation reduces sagging and prolongs the life of your mattress. It also improves comfort and support, helping you sleep better night after night.
🪛 Inspect & secure my deck
Yearly
Once a year, walk your deck and check for loose screws, wobbly railings, or sagging boards. Tighten fasteners, replace rusted hardware, and address any soft or rotting wood.
This inspection prevents accidents and extends your deck’s structural life. Securing fasteners also helps prevent squeaks and shifting as you walk across the surface.
Landscaping & Yard
💦 Check & adjust sprinklers
Monthly (in season)
Run each irrigation zone and watch for clogged or mis-aimed heads, overspray onto sidewalks, and leaks at risers. Adjust arcs and height; shorten schedules after rain.
Proper adjustment saves water, prevents fungus from overwatering, and keeps pressure balanced so every area gets even coverage.
❄️ Winterize irrigation system
Yearly (before first freeze)
Shut off supply, drain backflow, and blow out lines with an air compressor to remove trapped water. Insulate exposed valves and the backflow preventer.
This prevents cracked pipes, split manifolds, and costly spring repairs from freeze damage.
🪵 Refresh mulch in beds
Yearly
Top up a fresh 1–2″ layer, keeping mulch off trunks and siding. Re-edge borders for clean lines and better water retention.
Mulch suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature, conserves moisture, and gives beds a crisp, finished look.
✂️ Prune shrubs & small trees
Every 6 Months (timed to bloom)
Remove dead/diseased wood first, then thin crossing branches and shape lightly. Prune spring bloomers after flowering; summer bloomers in late winter.
Correct timing preserves blooms, improves air flow, and keeps plants healthy and manageable.
🌿 Edge & weed beds
Weekly (in season)
Maintain a crisp edge along beds and walkways; hand-pull young weeds before they seed. Spot-treat invasives where allowed and safe.
Regular light weeding prevents big overgrowth battles and keeps beds tidy and healthy.
🌱 Fertilize lawn (seasonal)
Every 3 Months (per grass type)
Apply the right seasonal fertilizer for your cool- or warm-season grass, then water in. Follow local ordinances near waterways and heat waves.
Proper feeding thickens turf, crowds out weeds, and improves color and recovery from foot traffic.
🔁 Aerate & overseed lawn
Yearly (best in fall for cool-season)
Core aerate compacted soil, topdress lightly, then overseed with a quality blend. Keep seedbed evenly moist until established.
Aeration opens the soil for air and water, while overseeding renews density and resilience.
🍂 Leaf cleanup
Yearly (fall) or as needed
Rake or blow leaves from turf and drains; compost where possible. Wet leaf mats smother grass and create slippery walkways.
Regular cleanup protects lawn health, keeps gutters and storm drains clear, and reduces winter mold.
🔧 Service outdoor power tools
Yearly
Sharpen chains and blades, change plugs and filters, and add fuel stabilizer before storage. Check cords and guards for damage.
Tuned tools start easier, cut cleaner, and last longer, saving time and money every season.
Pools & Hot Tubs
🧹 Skim & brush surfaces
Weekly
Leaves, bugs, and pollen collect quickly on the surface and along walls. Skimming keeps debris out of your filter system, while brushing walls and steps prevents algae from taking hold.
Regular skimming and brushing reduces strain on pumps, improves water clarity, and makes the pool or spa more inviting. Emptying skimmer and pump baskets also keeps circulation strong.
🧪 Test & balance water
Weekly
Balanced water keeps swimmers safe and equipment protected. Test pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels each week, adjusting with chemicals as needed. Log your results to spot trends.
Proper chemistry prevents algae blooms, eye and skin irritation, and scaling inside pumps and heaters. It’s the single most important habit for a healthy pool or spa.
⚡ Shock the pool/spa
Weekly (or after heavy use)
Heavy use, rainstorms, or cloudy water can overwhelm your sanitizer. Shocking with a concentrated dose of chlorine or non-chlorine oxidizer burns off organic waste and restores clarity.
Regular shocking stops algae, kills bacteria, and keeps water sparkling. Running the pump overnight helps fully circulate treatment for maximum effectiveness.
🧽 Clean cartridge filter
Monthly
Filters trap dirt and oils, but clogged pleats restrict flow. A monthly rinse with a hose keeps water moving freely, while an occasional soak in filter cleaner restores performance.
Clean filters mean clearer water, less strain on pumps, and longer filter life. Don’t wait until pressure spikes, prevent issues with regular care.
🔄 Backwash sand/DE filter
Monthly (or as pressure rises)
Sand and DE filters clean by trapping particles in media. Over time, the buildup reduces flow. Backwashing reverses water through the filter, flushing debris to waste.
Clear water depends on consistent backwashing. Always recharge DE filters afterward so they can continue capturing fine particles.
💧 Check water level
Weekly
Pools and spas lose water through evaporation, splash-out, or rain. Keeping the level at mid-skimmer ensures steady circulation and prevents pumps from sucking air.
Regular checks protect pumps, keep skimmers effective, and avoid costly cavitation damage to equipment.
🔍 Inspect pump/heater
Monthly
Pumps and heaters work hard behind the scenes. Look for leaks at unions, cracked fittings, worn O-rings, or rust on heater exchangers. Confirm the heater ignites and cycles properly.
Spotting issues early keeps equipment reliable, prevents expensive repairs, and ensures efficient heating and filtration.
🚿 Drain & refill hot tub
Every 3 Months
Hot tubs build up dissolved solids and biofilm that sanitizer can’t manage. Draining every few months, flushing plumbing lines, and refilling with fresh water keeps water clear and safe.
This resets your spa, extends equipment life, and keeps soaking enjoyable without cloudy or irritating water.
🌞 Open pool for season
Yearly (Spring)
After winter, uncover the pool, reconnect plumbing, prime the pump, and start circulation. Shock and balance water chemistry to prepare for safe swimming.
A clean, careful opening prevents algae blooms, equipment strain, and weeks of cloudy water, ensuring the season starts off right.
❄️ Winterize/close pool
Yearly (Fall)
Before freezing temps, lower the water, blow out plumbing lines, add winterizing chemicals, and secure a tight-fitting cover. Insulate or cover exposed valves as needed.
Proper closing protects pipes and equipment from freeze damage, prevents algae under the cover, and makes spring opening far easier.
Renters-Specific
📷 Photo inventory / condition
Every 6 Months
Walk through your rental and take clear photos of every room, focusing on areas of wear and tear such as floors, appliances, windows, and fixtures. Save these images to a cloud backup or shared drive so they’re timestamped and safe even if your device fails.
Keeping a recurring inventory protects you when moving out or disputing damage charges. It creates a consistent record that shows you cared for the property, preventing unfair deductions from your security deposit.
📄 Review my renters insurance
Yearly
Once a year, look over your renters insurance policy. Check that your coverage limits match the value of your belongings, and confirm your deductible is affordable in case of a claim. Ensure your inventory photos are up to date and stored safely.
Reviewing coverage avoids unpleasant surprises if disaster strikes. Policies often auto-renew, so taking a few minutes ensures you’re properly protected and not overpaying for unnecessary extras.
Safety & Preparedness
🧯 Check my fire extinguishers
Monthly
Inspect each extinguisher in your home. Confirm the gauge is in the green zone, the safety pin is secure, and the hose and nozzle are clear. Replace the unit immediately if the charge is low or if it’s past its expiration date.
Extinguishers lose pressure over time, and you don’t want to discover one doesn’t work during an emergency. This habit ensures you’re always ready to act in the event of a fire.
🧰 Refresh my emergency kit
Every 6 Months
Open your emergency kit and check expiration dates on food, water, and medications. Test flashlights and replace batteries. Update your printed contact list and make sure extra chargers and cash are included.
Regular refreshes ensure your supplies are usable and reliable. In a disaster, you won’t have time to scramble for working gear , being proactive keeps your family safe and ready.
Vehicle
🎯 Check my tire pressure
Monthly
Use a tire gauge to check each tire’s pressure, including the spare. Compare readings against the spec inside your driver’s door jamb and fill at a gas station or with a portable compressor if low.
Proper tire pressure improves gas mileage, handling, and tire life. It also prevents blowouts, making this one of the most important safety checks for your vehicle.
🛢️ Oil change
Every 6 Months (or ~5k miles)
Drain old oil, replace the filter, and refill with manufacturer-recommended oil. If you don’t DIY, schedule service at your shop and keep receipts logged. Always reset the oil life indicator if equipped.
Fresh oil lubricates your engine, prevents wear, and keeps components running cool. Delaying oil changes is the fastest way to shorten engine life and cause expensive damage.
📅 Renew my vehicle registration
Yearly
Check your renewal notice and submit payment online or by mail before expiration. Apply new stickers or documents as required by your state.
Staying current avoids fines, towing, or registration holds. It keeps your vehicle legal and ensures insurance coverage remains valid.
🌬️ Replace my cabin air filter
Yearly
Open the glove box and remove the panel behind it to access the cabin air filter. Slide out the old filter and replace with a fresh one facing the correct airflow direction.
A clean filter improves air quality inside your vehicle, reduces strain on the HVAC fan, and keeps dust, pollen, and pollutants from circulating.
🌧️ Replace my wiper blades
Yearly (or as needed)
Lift each wiper arm and slide off the old blade following the latch design. Clip on a new blade of the correct length and test with washer fluid.
Clear vision in rain or snow is non-negotiable. Fresh wipers eliminate streaks and chatter, improving safety in every driving condition.
🛡️ Review my auto insurance
Every 6 Months
At renewal, compare your current rates with other insurers, confirm deductibles, and ensure coverage levels match your needs. Adjust policy if your vehicle value or driving habits have changed.
Reviewing regularly helps you save money and guarantees you aren’t underinsured. A little effort can translate into hundreds of dollars in savings each year.
🔄 Rotate my tires
Every 6 Months
Jack up the vehicle or schedule service to move front tires to the rear and rear tires to the front, often swapping sides. Always follow the rotation pattern recommended in your manual.
Tire rotation promotes even tread wear, extends tire life, and improves handling. It also gives you a chance to inspect tread depth and spot sidewall damage.
🧪 State inspection / emissions
Yearly (where required)
Book an appointment at a licensed inspection station. Mechanics will check brakes, lights, emissions, and safety systems, issuing a pass or fail certificate as required by your state.
Staying compliant avoids fines and keeps your vehicle safe and legal to drive. Regular inspections also catch small problems before they become major repairs.
Whether it’s a quick patch, a mystery problem you can’t quite name, or a full-on weekend project, ⌬ SPAKL takes the guesswork out of home repairs. With one snap, you’ll know what’s wrong, what you need, and how to fix it, saving you time and frustration while giving you that “I did it!” feeling. Most of us were never taught even the basics of fixing things, let alone the harder stuff. SPAKL is my way of evening the odds and helping anyone feel capable of tackling repairs.