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The Essential Guide to Home Maintenance for Every Space
August 15, 2025
Summer in Wisconsin brings warmth, sunshine, and the perfect conditions for checking essential maintenance off your home-care list. Staying proactive during these months prevents small issues from becoming major problems—especially important for new homeowners. Below, you’ll find expert-backed home maintenance tips designed specifically for Wisconsin homes!
Inside the Home
- Inspect and tighten cabinet hardware, door hinges, and thresholds.
- Repair chips or scratches in cabinets using your color-match repair kit.
- Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
- Replace batteries as needed.
- Keep air vents unblocked and dusted.
Kitchen & Bathrooms
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove mineral deposits.
- Check under sinks, around cabinets, and toilets for leaks.
- Clean kitchen exhaust fan filters.
- Check and clean the dishwasher for leaks.
- Inspect refrigerator and freezer coils; clean and empty drip trays.
Mechanical & Utility Systems
- Replace HVAC/furnace filters monthly in the first year.
- Schedule professional AC servicing before or during summer.
- Run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans regularly.
- Use a dehumidifier if the indoor humidity exceeds 50%.
- Inspect all drains and garbage disposal for clogs; clean disposal as recommended.
Garage & Entryways
- Oil or grease your garage-door opener, chain, spring, and hinges annually.
- Ensure garage door sensors are working and unobstructed.
- Test exterior GFI outlets.
Outside the Home
- Water lawn in the morning and avoid overwatering newly sodded or seeded areas.
- Keep vegetation trimmed away from your home's foundation.
- Inspect for and seal exterior cracks or gaps.
- Clean refrigerator/freezer coils *if located in a garage*.
Vacation & General Safety
- Set lights on timers to deter burglars.
- Secure all windows and doors before you leave.
- Shut off your main water supply if you'll be gone for several days.
- Ask a neighbor to check on your home and collect mail.
Stay Ahead & Protect Your Investment
Wisconsin summers are perfect for relaxing—but also for checking off these seasonal home care tasks. Following your Bear Homes maintenance checklist will help you prevent issues, protect your warranty, and enjoy your new home all year long.
Blog FAQs
Yes. Regular tightening prevents damage and keeps cabinets and doors functioning properly.
Every 8–10 years, or sooner if recommended by the manufacturer.
Press the test button monthly and replace the batteries immediately if the alarms sound weak or intermittently.
Look for water stains, moisture, or any damp spots under sinks and behind appliances regularly.
At least once each summer, or more frequently if you cook often.
It boosts efficiency, lowers energy costs, and helps your appliances last longer.
Inspect for moisture after each cycle. Persistent leaks require professional service to prevent water damage.
It improves air quality, system efficiency, and can lower energy bills.
Use fans, dehumidifiers, and keep the AC running as needed to keep humidity between 30–50%. Learn more about how to control the humidity in your home.
Remove debris by hand or with a plunger; avoid harsh chemicals.
This prevents odors and blockages, ensuring your garbage disposal operates smoothly all year round.
Lubrication reduces noise, prevents corrosion, and prolongs the life of moving parts.
Wave an object under the sensor beam when closing the door; the door should reverse direction if the sensors are working properly.
Nighttime watering encourages fungal growth and lawn diseases. Learn more about how to care for your new lawn properly.
Keep shrubs trimmed, remove debris, and seal any small gaps around the exterior.
Proper watering and mowing establish strong roots and help prevent erosion or patchy lawns for brand new homes.
Yes—especially for trips over a few days, to prevent leaks or water damage.
Set it around 78–80°F in summer to control humidity and reduce energy use.
