Sacramento Home Maintenance Checklist: Season-by-Season Guide

Sacramento's climate — scorching summers, mild wet winters, and beautiful spring and fall seasons — creates a unique maintenance calendar for homeowners. Staying on top of seasonal maintenance prevents expensive repairs, extends the life of your home's systems, and keeps your family comfortable year-round.

Spring Maintenance (March – May)

Spring is Sacramento's prime maintenance season. The weather is mild, contractors are available, and you're preparing for the intense summer ahead.

**HVAC:**

• Schedule an AC tune-up before summer demand hits
• Replace air filters (do this every 1-3 months)
• Clean around the outdoor condenser unit — clear debris, trim vegetation 2 feet away
• Consider duct cleaning if it's been more than 5 years

**Exterior:**

• Inspect the roof for winter storm damage — missing shingles, cracked tiles, damaged flashing
• Clean gutters and downspouts of winter debris
• Check exterior paint, caulking, and siding for damage
• Power wash driveways, walkways, and the home exterior
• Inspect and repair fencing

**Landscaping:**

• Adjust irrigation timers for spring watering schedules
• Mulch garden beds (2-3 inches) to retain moisture for summer
• Prune trees and shrubs before the growing season
• Fertilize lawns and gardens
• Check for ant activity and treat early

**Interior:**

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (replace batteries)
• Check plumbing for leaks under sinks and around toilets
• Clean dryer vents (fire prevention)
• Inspect windows and doors for air leaks

Summer Maintenance (June – August)

Sacramento's brutal summers demand attention to cooling and water management.

**HVAC:**

• Keep the thermostat at 78°F when home for optimal efficiency
• Change air filters monthly during heavy use
• Keep blinds and curtains closed on south and west-facing windows
• Ensure the condensate drain is clear

**Exterior:**

• Water your foundation perimeter during extreme heat to prevent clay soil shrinkage
• Check for wasp and bee nests around the home
• Inspect and clean the pool (if applicable)
• Monitor for termite swarms (common in early summer)

**Landscaping:**

• Water deeply but infrequently — early morning is best
• Check irrigation for leaks and proper coverage
• Let lawn grass grow slightly taller (3+ inches) to shade roots

**Interior:**

• Check attic insulation — adequate insulation reduces cooling costs dramatically
• Monitor for signs of pest activity (ants seeking water indoors)
• Check for ceiling stains that might indicate roof leaks or condensation issues

Fall Maintenance (September – November)

Fall is Sacramento's second-best season for home maintenance — prepare for winter rains and take advantage of mild weather.

**HVAC:**

• Schedule a furnace tune-up before winter
• Replace air filters
• Test the heating system before you need it
• Seal visible duct leaks with mastic or foil tape

**Exterior:**

• Clean gutters before the rainy season — this is critical in Sacramento
• Inspect the roof and repair any issues before winter rains
• Caulk and seal around windows, doors, and any exterior penetrations
• Have trees trimmed away from the roof and power lines
• Drain and winterize outdoor faucets (light freezes are possible)

**Landscaping:**

• Fall is the best planting season in Sacramento — plant trees, shrubs, and perennials
• Aerate and overseed lawns
• Reduce irrigation frequency as temperatures cool
• Clean up fallen leaves to prevent drainage blockages

**Interior:**

• Reverse ceiling fans to clockwise (pushes warm air down)
• Check weatherstripping on doors and windows
• Test garage door safety features
• Clean the fireplace and chimney if you have one

Winter Maintenance (December – February)

Sacramento winters are mild but wet. Focus on water management and staying comfortable.

**HVAC:**

• Keep heating at 68°F for efficiency
• Change air filters every 1-2 months
• Ensure vents aren't blocked by furniture

**Exterior:**

• After major storms, check for roof damage, fallen branches, and drainage issues
• Keep gutters clear of debris
• Monitor for standing water near the foundation
• Inspect for signs of rodent activity (they seek shelter in winter)

**Interior:**

• Check for drafts around windows and doors
• Monitor humidity levels — Sacramento winters are damp, use exhaust fans in bathrooms
• Inspect under sinks for leaks (pipes can freeze during rare cold snaps)
• Plan spring and summer projects — this is the best time to research contractors and get bids

Year-Round Tips

• Keep records of all maintenance and repairs
• Build a relationship with reliable contractors before you need emergency service
• Budget 1-2% of your home's value annually for maintenance
• Address small problems before they become big (and expensive) ones

Following this seasonal checklist helps Sacramento homeowners maintain their homes efficiently, prevent costly repairs, and enjoy comfortable living year-round.