Clean smoke alarms by pulling cover steadily downward. Remove the power cell. Vacuum any accumulated dust from the sensing-chamber openings. Wash cover with soap and water, dry, and replace. Press test switch.

Electric water heater: Drain tank completely to flush out scale, rust, and sediment. (Attach garden hose from open drain cock to yard or open drain.) Remove heating elements. Soak them in vinegar solution (1 cup vinegar to each gallon of water) and scrape off mineral deposits. Be sure to cut off power to the heater at the fuse box or circuit breaker before you begin.

Check sludge level in septic tank. When sludge reaches 1/3 the tank's depth, have a professional pump out the tank to clean it. (Frequency of service depends on the size of the tank and household use. Tanks for houses in which there is a garbage disposal need more frequent service.)

Lubricate heater blower motor and fan with one or two drops of 20-weight oil. (Do not use too much oil.)

Clean gas space heaters. Be sure lines are clear.

Clean electric space heater. Be sure dust and dirt are not on heating coils.

Clean entire unit of room air conditioner: Vacuum dust and lint from condenser and evaporator. Use soap and water to wipe dirt and grime from compressor, tubing, motor, and blade. Clean leaves and debris from outside. Straighten any bent metal fins. Scrape off any rust, then reprime and paint. Check driveways and walks for cracks/breaks, or erosion that may cause damage.

Check fences, gates, and retaining walls for condition of structure and material.

Inspect flashing around chimneys, vent stalks, and roof edges.

Check all joints, ceramic tiles, and laminated plastics.

Check caulking around sinks, bathtubs, and showers.

Inspect floors for wear and damage. Check particularly where one type of flooring material meets another, such as carpet joining wood or tile.