Forget the Open Floor Plan--It's Time to Bring Back Walls

  Change filters regularly.  Swap them out every 30 to 90 days. Clean air vents and registers.  Use a brush to clear dust and dirt at the top of the registers and the bottom of vents or use a vacuum cleaner. Keep outdoor units clear of debris.  Make sure the area around your HVAC unit is free of overgrown plantings, leaves, and dirt. Seal drafts.  Weather strip doors and caulk around windows to keep your HVAC from overworking. Examine exposed ductwork.  Seal any holes or leaks with duct sealant or metal-backed tape. Monitor your thermostat.  Consider a programmable thermostat to increase your system’s efficiency and avoid overrunning it. Check the flame.  Natural gas furnaces should have a crisp, blue flame; if not, call an HVAC tech immediately. Clean the drain line.  Flushing it out regularly will help avoid clogs. Check carbon monoxide detectors.  Test monitors monthly. Replace batteries annually. Schedule a professional checkup.  Have units inspected at least yearly.

  For many families, the kitchen is the social hub of the home, so it's important that you clean often. Some areas of your kitchen will require consistent attention, such as the counters. Others, like larger appliances such as the refrigerator or oven, can be addressed on a weekly or perhaps monthly basis. Below, you'll find daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal kitchen cleaning checklists to simplify your routine. These detailed guides will help you create and maintain a tidy kitchen space. Supplies You'll Need Before you get started, make sure you have the proper tools and cleaning solutions on hand. The following is a comprehensive list, detailing all of the supplies you need for the four kitchen cleaning checklists in this guide. Broom and dustpan Mop Vacuum Microfiber cloths Dishwasher detergent Dish soap All-purpose cleaner  (or  DIY all-purpose cleaner ) Old Toothbrush Soft-bristled brush or abrasive  sponge Duster Glass cleaner (or  DIY glass cleaner ) Distilled whit