4 Tasks for Your January Home Checklist

Change Water Filters
These days, many homes contain some sort of water filtration, whether it is a whole house system, a fridge and icemaker filter, or another variation. Filters need to be replaced regularly to keep water flowing freely and avoid mold formation.

January is a good time to get back on track if you’ve been forgetting to replace filters. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to know how frequently they ought to be changed. Take the old filter with you to the store, so you purchase the right replacement.

Clean Tub and Sink Drains
Hair and debris build up in bathroom drains, slowing the flow of water and causing it to back up into your tub or sink. This build-up encourages the growth of mold and mildew in the basin and even in the pipes.

Remove the drain assembly and drain grates covering the drain and set aside. You can clean these with an old toothbrush. Use a plastic drain stick in the overflow drain, then again in the main drain, to remove gunk inside the pipe.

After cleaning the drains, pour a cup of bleach down the drain, and let it sit for 15 minutes to kill mold and mildew within the pipes. Flush the drain thoroughly with hot water, then reinstall the drain assembly and grate.

Check Roof and Gutters for Ice Dams
If icing occurs, it can damage your roof and cause leaks, and it can prevent water from draining off your roof properly through gutters.

The best ways to prevent ice dams is to: 1) seal off air leaks that could be allowing heated air to rise into your attic; 2) add more attic insulation to keep warm air before it; and 3) ventilate your attic to be close to the same temperature as the air outside.

Take a Home Inventory
Should theft, fire, or a natural disaster ever occur, it helps to have an accurate home inventory to allow for smoother communication with your insurance company.

You can use a computer spreadsheet or paper notebook, camera and/or camcorder, and a tape measure.

Take video of all sides of your home and property: interior and exterior. You’ll need photos from each angle as well. Take close-range photos of certain items, like rockwork, outdoor kitchens, and water features, and any valuables. Record all measurements, model/serial numbers, purchase price, and any other information that might help determine the replacement value of an object.

Finally, document your ownership of each item. Record purchase dates and attach receipts or any appraisal statements. The safest way to secure your inventory is to save it all digitally online.