This week: arrange annual chimney inspection.
July 31, 2027 · Knoxville, Farragut & Lenoir City
Start with this week’s focus. Use the other reminders if they fit your home.
Arrange annual chimney inspection
Qualified chimney professional. August before fall bookings.
A clean firebox is not a chimney inspection. Do not use a damaged system.
Locate the fireplace and chimney service record. Note any damage or operating concerns without using the system to investigate.
Arrange inspection of the fireplace, chimney and venting by a qualified chimney professional. Ask whether cleaning or repair is needed.
Save the inspection findings and arrange necessary cleaning or repair. Do not use a damaged system.
Timing: Annual inspection; sweep as needed. Additional time: Usually 60-120 minutes on site.
About this timing
CSIA recommends annual inspection, with cleaning/repairs as necessary. Equipment instructions and actual conditions take priority.
Other maintenance this week
Spread these out. Skip equipment you don’t have and monthly checks already completed.
Look under sinks and at ceilings. Read a hygrometer. Log new dampness. Aim for 30-50% RH, below 60%.
Applies: Most homes. DIY.
Fix leaks promptly. Dry wet materials within 24-48 hours. Refer extensive, hidden or contaminated damage to a professional.
Read appliance thermometers. Refrigerator should be 40 F or below; freezer 0 F or below.
Applies: Refrigerator/freezer. DIY.
Investigate unsafe temperatures promptly. An appliance setting is not a thermometer reading.
Empty and scrub or cover small water-holding containers, including birdbaths and plant saucers.
Applies: Outdoor containers or standing water. DIY.
Do not enter unsafe water or disturb electrical equipment. Pesticides must follow their labels.
Check airflow and clean an accessible cover per manual.
Applies: Most homes. DIY cover cleaning; technician for duct/motor work.
Isolate power before cleaning. Have weak airflow or uncertain outdoor discharge assessed.
A little cleaning along the way
Spread it across the week. Follow care labels, ventilate and never mix cleaning products. Machine cycles and drying add time.
Regular routine · about 2 hr 23 min
Use products that suit the surface. Follow product labels, ventilate and never mix cleaners.
Vacuum first, then clean compatible hard floors. Keep cords and wet floors out of walking routes.
Follow fabric care labels. Use the upholstery attachment and avoid moving heavy furniture alone.
Use compatible products and safe access. Keep separate cloths for toilets and other surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or acids.
Use safe-storage guidance for leftovers. Food date labels alone do not tell you whether food is safe.
Wash and dry according to fabric labels and actual use. Clean the dryer lint screen before or after every load.
Household & vehicle reminders
Additional time. Vehicle service follows your manual, mileage and condition. Keep personal and financial records off this page.
Household & equipment
Sort current reading and recycle or file unwanted items.
Applies: Optional household administration. DIY review; relevant professional for advice.
Protect personal information before recycling.
Review recent transactions and flag unfamiliar charges or missing records.
Applies: Optional household administration. DIY review; relevant professional for advice.
Use trusted account access. Keep financial details out of shared copies.
Review due bills and correspondence; file completed paperwork.
Applies: Optional household administration. DIY review; relevant professional for advice.
Protect account numbers and avoid duplicate payments.
Clean only fully cold accessible surfaces according to fireplace instructions. Keep chimney inspection under T15.
Applies: Fireplace/woodstove used. DIY surface care; professional chimney service.
Additional time: Cooling and ash storage time is additional
Use only fully cold surfaces. Do not use a household vacuum for ash. Keep ash in a lidded metal container outdoors at least 10 feet from buildings.
Between reminders: clean the dryer lint screen each load. Check the property after significant storms. Deal with failed alarms, leaks and unsafe equipment immediately. If a portable humidifier is in use, empty, dry and refill it daily and clean every third day. Pools need more frequent care and barrier supervision during use.
Move outdoor work for heat, lightning, rain or ice. Prepare plumbing before a forecast freeze. Use qualified professionals for electrical, structural, roof and other work beyond safe homeowner access.