Step-by-step guides for common home maintenance tasks and repairs.


# Home Maintenance by Climate Zone: Why Where You Live Changes Everything

A homeowner in Phoenix, Arizona and a homeowner in Minneapolis, Minnesota live in fundamentally different worlds when it comes to home maintenance. One worries about UV damage, monsoon flooding, and AC systems running 10 months a year. The other worries about ice dams, frozen pipes, and a furnace that runs from October to April.

Yet most home maintenance advice — and most home maintenance apps — treat every homeowner the same. That's a problem.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, climate zone is the single biggest factor in determining which home systems work hardest and fail first. Understanding your climate zone isn't just academic — it determines where your maintenance time and money should go.

## Understanding Climate Zones

The U.S. Department of Energy divides the country into 7 primary climate zones based on heating and cooling degree days:

| Zone | Temperature | Examples |
|------|------------|---------|
| Zone 1 | Very Hot | Miami, Honolulu, Key West |
| Zone 2 | Hot | Houston, Phoenix, New Orleans |
| Zone 3 | Warm | Atlanta, Dallas, Las Vegas |
| Zone 4 | Mixed | Nashville, Raleigh, Seattle |
| Zone 5 | Cool | Chicago, Boston, Denver |
| Zone 6 | Cold | Minneapolis, Burlington, Helena |
| Zone 7 | Very Cold | Duluth, Fairbanks, International Falls |

Each zone also has a moisture sub-type: A (humid), B (dry), or C (marine).

## Hot-Humid Climates (Zones 1A-2A)

**Cities:** Miami, Houston, New Orleans, Tampa, San Juan

Hot-humid climates are the most demanding for home maintenance. The combination of heat, moisture, and storms creates year-round challenges.

**Top priorities:**

- AC service twice per year (spring and fall) — your system runs 8-10 months, which is why [central AC almost always beats window units](/compare/central-ac-vs-window-unit/) on running cost in this climate
- Mold prevention in bathrooms, attics, and crawl spaces
- Annual termite inspection (subterranean termites thrive in warm, moist soil)
- Hurricane preparation (June-November): shutters, roof tie-downs, tree trimming
- Dehumidifier maintenance
- Exterior paint inspection (humidity causes faster peeling)

**Unique maintenance:**

| Task | Frequency | Why |
|------|-----------|-----|
| Check attic for mold | Every 6 months | Humidity creates ideal mold conditions |
| Inspect for termites | Annually | Warm moist soil accelerates termite activity |
| Clean AC drain line | Monthly in summer | Algae growth clogs condensate drains |
| Check roof after storms | After every major storm | Wind and rain damage is cumulative |
| Inspect exterior caulking | Every 6 months | UV and moisture degrade caulk faster |

## Hot-Dry Climates (Zones 2B-3B)

**Cities:** Phoenix, Las Vegas, Tucson, El Paso, Palm Springs

The desert is deceptively tough on homes. Extreme heat, UV radiation, and dramatic temperature swings between day and night stress every exterior surface.

**Top priorities:**

- UV protection: exterior paint, window seals, and roof materials degrade faster
- Foundation monitoring (dry soil shrinks and shifts, causing foundation cracks)
- Irrigation system maintenance (essential for landscaping and soil stability)
- AC service (runs nearly year-round in the hottest areas)
- Monsoon preparation (July-September in the Southwest)

**Unique maintenance:**

- Soak the soil around your foundation during extreme dry periods to prevent shifting
- Check weatherstripping and door seals more often (UV degrades rubber and foam)
- Inspect swamp coolers (evaporative coolers) if applicable
- Fire-resistant landscaping (defensible space around your home)

## Cold Climates (Zones 5-7)

**Cities:** Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver, Boston, Burlington

Cold climates bring the classic home maintenance challenges: freezing temperatures, snow load, and ice.

**Top priorities:**

- Furnace tune-up before heating season (October)
- Winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems
- Ice dam prevention: attic insulation (R-49 to R-60) and ventilation
- Pipe insulation for exposed plumbing
- Snow removal plan for roof, driveway, and walkways

**Unique maintenance:**

| Task | When | Why |
|------|------|-----|
| Winterize outdoor faucets | Before first freeze | Prevents burst pipes ($5,000+ damage) |
| Check attic insulation depth | Every fall | Prevents ice dams and reduces heating costs |
| Reverse ceiling fans | October | Clockwise pushes warm air down, saving 10% on heating |
| Inspect weather stripping | October | Gaps let cold air in and drive up heating bills |
| Flush water heater | Fall | Sediment buildup reduces efficiency when you need heat most |

If your water heater is near the end of its life, a cold climate tilts the replacement decision — see [gas vs electric water heaters](/compare/gas-vs-electric-water-heater/), where gas usually wins on running cost where winters are long and electricity is dear.

## Mixed Climates (Zones 3A-4A)

**Cities:** Atlanta, Nashville, Raleigh, Charlotte, Memphis

Mixed climates get the full spectrum — hot summers, cold winters, and everything in between. You need to maintain for both extremes.

**Top priorities:**

- HVAC service twice per year (heating and cooling seasons)
- Spring and fall gutter cleaning (four-season tree cycles)
- Inspect roof twice per year (winter ice damage + summer storm damage)
- Manage humidity in summer, dryness in winter
- Weather stripping and insulation check every fall

**Key insight:** Mixed climates require the most diverse maintenance schedule because your home systems alternate between heating and cooling stress. An app that adjusts tasks by season — not just a static annual list — makes the biggest difference here.

## Marine Climates (Zone 4C)

**Cities:** Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Eureka

Marine climates bring moderate temperatures but persistent moisture — rain, fog, and dampness for much of the year.

**Top priorities:**

- Moisture management: gutters, downspouts, and drainage are critical
- Moss and algae prevention on roofs, decks, and walkways
- Wood rot inspection on siding, trim, and decks
- Ventilation in attics and crawl spaces to prevent mold
- Exterior paint and stain maintenance (moisture accelerates wear)

## How Climate Zone Affects Costs

Your climate zone directly impacts your maintenance budget:

| Climate | Annual Maintenance Cost | Biggest Expense |
|---------|----------------------|-----------------|
| Hot-Humid | $4,000-$6,000 | AC service + mold prevention |
| Hot-Dry | $3,000-$5,000 | AC service + exterior repairs |
| Cold | $3,500-$5,500 | Heating + winterization |
| Mixed | $3,000-$4,500 | Dual HVAC service |
| Marine | $2,500-$4,000 | Moisture management |

## Why Generic Checklists Fall Short

A generic "home maintenance checklist" that tells every homeowner to "clean gutters in October" misses the point:

- In the Pacific Northwest, gutters need cleaning in November after the last leaves fall — plus moss treatment in spring
- In Arizona, gutters may barely need cleaning, but foundation watering is critical year-round
- In Minnesota, gutter cleaning happens in late October, but ice dam prevention in the attic matters more
- In Florida, gutters need clearing after every tropical storm, not on a fixed schedule

**This is exactly why TidyBoss sets up your maintenance schedule based on your climate zone during onboarding.** Instead of a one-size-fits-all checklist, you start with tasks that are relevant to where you live.

## Related Reading

- [Spring Home Maintenance Checklist 2026](/blog/spring-home-maintenance-checklist-2026/) - Seasonal checklist with climate zone tips
- [Major Appliance Maintenance: A New Homeowner's Guide](/blog/first-time-homeowner-maintenance-guide/) - Keep the HVAC, water heater and kitchen appliances alive their full lifespan
- [Home Maintenance Cost Calculator](/tools/maintenance-budget-calculator/) - How much to budget, adjusted for your home's age and climate
    

Your climate zone determines which home maintenance tasks matter most. Learn what to prioritize in hot-humid, cold, mixed, dry.

Home Maintenance by Climate Zone

Home Maintenance by Climate Zone: Why Where You Live Changes Everything


# How Often Should You Change Your HVAC Filter?

Your HVAC filter might seem small, but it has a big impact on air quality, energy bills, and system life.

## Why Filters Matter

| Benefit | Impact |
|---------|--------|
| Air Quality | Traps dust, pollen, allergens |
| Energy Efficiency | Dirty filters increase bills 5-15% |
| System Protection | Prevents dust buildup on components |
| Equipment Life | Extends HVAC lifespan |

## Replacement Schedule

### By Filter Type

| Filter Type | Replace Every |
|-------------|---------------|
| Basic fiberglass (1") | 30 days |
| Pleated (1") | 60-90 days |
| High-efficiency (4-5") | 6-12 months |

### Change More Often If You Have:

- Pets (especially dogs or cats)
- Allergies or asthma
- Multiple occupants
- Recent construction
- Dusty environment

## Signs Your Filter Needs Changing

- Visible dirt on the filter
- Reduced airflow from vents
- Dust accumulation on surfaces
- Higher energy bills
- Allergy symptoms worsening
- HVAC running longer than usual

## Understanding MERV Ratings

MERV = Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value

| MERV | Filters | Best For |
|------|---------|----------|
| 1-4 | Large particles | Minimal filtration |
| 5-8 | Dust, pollen | Most homes |
| 9-12 | Fine dust, mold | Allergies |
| 13-16 | Bacteria, smoke | Medical needs |

**Warning:** Higher isn't always better. Very high MERV filters can restrict airflow if your system isn't designed for them.

## How to Change Your Filter

1. Turn off HVAC system
2. Locate the filter (near return vent or air handler)
3. Note the size on the filter frame
4. Check the airflow arrow direction
5. Install new filter with arrow pointing toward unit
6. Turn system back on
7. Set a reminder for next change

## Cost Comparison

| Item | Annual Cost |
|------|-------------|
| Basic filters (monthly) | $60-120 |
| Pleated filters (quarterly) | $40-80 |
| High-efficiency (annual) | $30-60 |
| Preventable HVAC repair | $200-2,000+ |

## Related Reading

- [Major Appliance Maintenance: A New Homeowner's Guide](/blog/first-time-homeowner-maintenance-guide/) - Keep the HVAC, water heater and kitchen appliances alive their full lifespan
- [Home Maintenance Cost Calculator](/tools/maintenance-budget-calculator/) - Work out a realistic yearly number for your home
    

Learn the optimal HVAC filter replacement schedule, signs your filter needs changing, and how the right filter saves money on energy and repairs.

How Often to Change Your HVAC Filter

How Often to Change Your HVAC Filter (And Why It Matters)


# When Should You DIY vs. Hire a Professional?

One of the most common questions homeowners face: Should I do this myself?

## The Decision Framework

Ask yourself these questions:

1. **Is it safe?** Does it involve electricity, gas, or heights?
2. **Do I have the skills?** Have I done this before?
3. **Do I have the tools?** Would buying them cost more than hiring?
4. **What's my time worth?** How long will this take?

## Safe DIY Projects

### Painting

- Interior walls and trim
- Exterior touch-ups
- Cabinet refinishing

### Basic Plumbing

- Replacing faucets
- Installing shower heads
- Unclogging drains
- Replacing toilet flappers

### HVAC Maintenance

- Changing filters
- Cleaning vents
- Clearing debris from outdoor unit

### General Tasks

- Caulking and weather stripping
- Replacing light fixtures (power off)
- Basic landscaping
- Hanging shelves

## Always Hire a Professional

### Electrical Work

- New circuits
- Panel upgrades
- Beyond basic outlet replacement

**Why:** Fire and electrocution risk

### Gas Appliances

- Water heater installation
- Furnace repair
- Gas line work

**Why:** Gas leaks are extremely dangerous

### Structural Work

- Removing walls
- Foundation repairs
- Roof repairs

**Why:** Can compromise home's integrity

### Major Plumbing

- Sewer line work
- Water main repairs
- Adding new plumbing

**Why:** Expensive damage potential, permits required

## Cost Comparison

| Factor | DIY | Professional |
|--------|-----|--------------|
| Materials | Your cost | Often discounted |
| Tools | May need to buy | Included |
| Time | Your hours | Fast turnaround |
| Warranty | None | Often included |
| Risk | On you | Insured |

## Hidden Costs of DIY Mistakes

- Redoing the work
- Hiring someone to fix your fix
- Water or fire damage
- Code violations
- Insurance issues

## Finding Good Contractors

1. Get referrals from neighbors
2. Check license and insurance
3. Read reviews on multiple sites
4. Get at least 3 quotes
5. Ask about warranties
6. Get everything in writing

## Gray Area Projects

Worth attempting if you're willing to learn:

- Replacing a toilet
- Installing a garbage disposal
- Basic tile work
- Building simple furniture

## Related Reading

- [Major Appliance Maintenance: A New Homeowner's Guide](/blog/first-time-homeowner-maintenance-guide/) - Keep the HVAC, water heater and kitchen appliances alive their full lifespan
- [Home Maintenance Cost Calculator](/tools/maintenance-budget-calculator/) - How much to budget a year, by home age and climate
- [How Often to Change Your HVAC Filter](/blog/how-often-change-hvac-filter/) - A great first DIY task
    

Learn which home repairs are safe to DIY and when you should hire a professional. Includes safety considerations, skill assessment, and cost comparison.

How-To Guides

Home Maintenance by Climate Zone: Why Where You Live Changes Everything

How Often to Change Your HVAC Filter (And Why It Matters)

When Should You DIY vs. Hire a Professional for Home Repairs?