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A Kansas home maintenance calendar

By the 66221 Living Editorial Desk · Updated October 21, 2026 · 8-minute read

Johnson County homes face sub-zero cold snaps, humid summers, spring hail and heavy downpours — sometimes in the same month. A season-by-season routine prevents the expensive surprises.

Winter (December – February)

• Protect pipes. Disconnect hoses, keep garage doors closed in deep cold, and open sink cabinets on exterior walls during sub-zero nights.
• Change furnace filters every 1–3 months depending on filter type and pets.
• Test smoke and CO alarms; replace batteries and any units older than 10 years.
• Watch for ice dams after heavy snow — they signal attic insulation or ventilation gaps.
• February: book spring A/C service and irrigation start-up before the rush.

Spring (March – May)

• Storm prep. Review your shelter spot, weather alerts and insurance deductible. Take dated photos of your roof and exterior. See Storm & hail ready.
• Sump pump test. Pour water into the pit until the pump kicks on; test the battery or water-powered backup.
• Gutters and downspouts. Clear debris and make sure extensions discharge well away from the foundation.
• A/C tune-up and outdoor-unit cleaning.
• Irrigation start-up and backflow testing if your city or HOA requires it.
• After any hail: walk the property and photograph gutters, siding, screens and the A/C unit.

Summer (June – August)

• Water deeply, not daily. Cool-season lawns common in the area prefer deep, infrequent watering; early morning is best.
• Keep the condenser clear — two feet of space around the unit.
• Inspect the deck and fence; reseal wood every few years.
• Check caulk and weatherstripping around windows and doors.
• Pest watch: look for termite tubes along the foundation and wasp nests under eaves.

Fall (September – November)

• Overseed and aerate cool-season lawns in early fall — the best window of the year.
• Furnace service before the first cold night.
• Blow out irrigation lines before hard freezes.
• Clean gutters again after leaf drop.
• Check the roof from the ground for missing or lifted shingles before winter.
• November: review your property tax statement and escrow — see How property tax works.

Annual budget rule of thumb

A common planning figure is 1% of the home's value per year for maintenance and repairs — about $6,700 on a $670,000 home. Newer homes may spend less in early years; older homes with original systems often spend more. Put the difference in a dedicated account so roof, HVAC and water-heater replacements don't become emergencies.

Expected lifespans (typical)