Furnace & A/C Unit
The furnace filter should be checked and kept clean on a monthly basis. The size is listed on the side of the filter. Hose off the A/C unit each spring to clear any debris.

Electric Breakers
If they trip, turn them off, then back on to reset.

GFI Outlets
If the trip, reset them at the next closest master outlet. Refrigerators and freezers can trip these outlets. If using a freezer or refrigerator in the garage or basement, have an outlet wired just for that purpose.

Main Water Shut Off
If a severe leak or burst pipe is discovered, or if you are working on the plumbing, shut off the main valve in the basement.

Exterior Sill cocks
Always remove hoses from outside faucets prior to freezing temperatures.

Concrete & Decks
These should be sealed on an annual basis to improve their life expectancy.

Gas Shut Offs
When installing gas logs or working on the furnace or hot water heater, the shut off valves are on the gas lines (black pipes). Valve handles pointing the same direction as the pipe are "on", perpendicular is "off".

Main Heat & Air Dampers
To Balance large areas of the house these dampers are on the main ductwork coming off the furnace. Handles pointing the same direction as the ductwork are 11 open", perpendicular is "closed" Set these dampers in between open and closed to restrict air flow as needed. Balance individual rooms with the room registers.

Garbage Disposals
To reset a clogged disposal, simply push the red reset button under the unit.

Woodwork
Scratches and dings in stained woodwork can easily be concealed with a product like Old English Furniture Polish.

Windows
If double hung windows become hard to operate, simply spray the tracks with a silicone spray. If the windows won't stay up you can "pinch" the plastic tracks with your fingers to create better friction.

Carpet & Vinyl
Carpet and vinyl come in "dye lots". Save any scrap pieces that are left in the house so that if a patch is ever needed it will be from that dye lot.

Tile & Grout
Tile and grout can be sealed with a tile and grout sealer to improve the durability and life expectancy

Wood Floors
Never wax, or use any product on your hardwood floors. They are sealed with polymer sealant at installation. For the first thirty days of occupancy, do not use throw rugs or any cleaning solution other than lukewarm water. Throw rugs will smother the floor not allowing it to cure properly. After thirty days you may add I cup of white vinegar to I gallon of water for cleaning. Use felt tabs under furniture legs to prevent scratching.

Basements
It is generally a good idea to place boxes and other items on pallets or shelves as concrete will sometimes disperse condensation. This is also a good preventative measure in the event that you would have standing water in the basement.

Caulk & Grout
Caulk and premixed grout are available in a variety of colors for both interior and exterior touch ups. Both are also available in hand squeeze tubes. Simply run a bead of caulk, smooth with a wet finger, and let dry.

Drywall Repairs
These are easily done with spackle and a putty knife. Simply smooth on the spackle, dry, sand smooth with the wall, and you're ready to paint.

Paint Touch-Ups
When touching up paint, you may want to thin your paint with a little water for a better match. Tap the freshly painted area with the wide side of your brush or feather the area out with a roller for a better blend with the existing surface.