Your Maintenance Dashboard
Track your progress through 47 essential maintenance tasks. Click the checkboxes to mark tasks complete and see your progress update in real-time.
Your progress is saved in your browser. Come back anytime to check off tasks as you complete them throughout the year.
Interactive Maintenance Schedule
Select a time frame below to see relevant maintenance tasks. Each task includes difficulty rating, estimated cost, time required, and DFW-specific tips.
Monthly Maintenance
Quick tasks that take 30 minutes or less. Build these into your routine to prevent bigger problems.
A clean filter improves air quality, reduces energy costs by 5-15%, and extends your HVAC system's life. In DFW's dusty climate, check monthly.
Use MERV 8-11 filters for best balance of filtration and airflow. During peak allergy season (spring) or wildfire season, consider upgrading to MERV 13.
Press the test button on each detector. If it doesn't beep loudly, replace the batteries immediately. Texas law requires working smoke detectors on each floor.
Replace detector units every 10 years. Check the manufacture date printed on the back. Many DFW homeowners forget CO detectors near attached garages.
Maintenance Budget Calculator
The 1% Rule recommends budgeting 1% of your home's value annually for maintenance. Some experts suggest 2% for older homes or harsh climates like DFW's extreme heat and storms.
Calculate Your Budget
Enter your home's value and age to get personalized budget recommendations for DFW maintenance costs.
DFW's extreme heat (100+ days above 90°F), hail storms, and expansive clay soil increase maintenance costs 15-25% above national averages. Budget accordingly for HVAC, roofing, and foundation care.
Home Systems Lifespan Guide
Know when major systems will need replacement so you can budget accordingly. DFW's climate affects some systems differently than national averages.
DFW's extreme heat, UV exposure, and hail storms reduce lifespan vs. national average of 20-30 years. Inspect annually after year 15.
DFW's 100+ days above 90°F significantly reduces AC lifespan. National average is 15-20 years. Regular maintenance extends life.
DFW's hard water accelerates sediment buildup and anode rod consumption. Tankless units last 20+ years but cost more upfront.
Seal failure (foggy windows) is common sign of replacement need. Energy savings from new windows can offset cost over time.
Vinyl: 20-40 years. Fiber cement: 30-50 years. Brick: 100+ years with proper maintenance. Hail can damage vinyl.
May need upgrade sooner if adding EV charger, pool, or major appliances. Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels should be replaced immediately.
Opener: 10-15 years. Door: 20-30 years. Springs typically need replacement every 7-12 years with normal use (2 cycles/day).
DFW's expansive clay soil causes ongoing movement. 60%+ of DFW homes need some foundation work. Consistent moisture management is key.