Useful tools for life at home
Keep track of the work your home needs.
We’ve put maintenance, warranty and service worksheets here so you can keep the details together. Fill in the blank cells, then download or print your copy before leaving this page.
Seasonal home maintenance chart
Start with a few checks, then adapt to your equipment manuals and local weather. Use qualified professionals for roof, electrical, gas and other specialized work.
| When | Task | Tip | Last done | Next due / provider |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Test smoke alarms | Use test button; follow battery and replacement instructions. | - | - |
| Per manual | Inspect HVAC filters | Clean or replace according to equipment and filter directions. | - | - |
| Quarterly | Look for visible leaks | Check under sinks and note new stains or moisture. | - | - |
| Spring | Cooling-system service | Use the equipment's recommended service schedule. | - | - |
| Spring | Drainage and exterior check | Observe after rain from ground level; arrange qualified repairs. | - | - |
| Summer | Irrigation and outdoor faucets | Look for leaks, overspray and local watering restrictions. | - | - |
| Summer | Outdoor equipment and vacation care | Maintain required clearance; arrange pets, plants and check-ins. | - | - |
| Fall | Heating-system service | Plan annual professional maintenance and any additional required service. | - | - |
| Fall | Gutters and freeze protection | Arrange safe cleaning; follow local plumbing and irrigation guidance. | - | - |
| Winter | Weather and emergency plan | Review shelter, alerts and household contacts. | - | - |
| Winter | Moisture and records | Investigate leaks; organize manuals and service receipts. | - | - |
Guidance: U.S. Department of Energy · U.S. Fire Administration · Ready.gov
Home warranty and service tracker
Start with your newest item. Keep the actual written warranty, receipt, manual and service evidence together. Product, labor and installer coverage may differ; paid service contracts are separate from included manufacturer warranties.
Items to check around your home
- HVAC and thermostat
- Water heater and filtration
- Kitchen and laundry appliances
- Roof, windows and exterior doors
- Generator and transfer switch
- Solar equipment and inverter
- Pool, spa and pumps
- Garage door and opener
- Irrigation
- Security equipment
- Well or septic equipment
- Remodel fixtures and installer coverage
Edit cells below. Record only what you need; do not include account numbers, passwords or security access codes. Download your completed tracker before leaving the page.
| Item / location | Brand / model / serial | Seller / installer contact | Purchased / installed | Coverage / expiry | Receipt / manual location | Registration / transfer terms | Task / interval | Last service / evidence | Next due |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Service log
| Date | Item | Work performed | Provider | Invoice / evidence location | Cost | Next action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Use your own calendar for reminders. Downloaded files can be reopened and edited in your browser, then downloaded again. BFG does not receive your entries. Read FTC warranty guidance.
A small gardening plan
- Choose what you want: food, flowers, pollinators or less upkeep.
- Pick a container, raised bed or existing bed you can manage.
- Notice sunlight, drainage and watering access.
- Consider soil testing through your county Extension office.
- Choose plants and planting times suited to your location and season.
- Keep a record of what you planted, when, and what worked.
Reuse, repurpose and recycle
Choose one small space. Sort into keep, repair or reuse, donate, and appropriate recycling or disposal. Sturdy shelves can become garage storage; usable pots or hardware may help someone else.
Check condition and suitability before reuse. Confirm local collection rules and an organization's current donation needs. Batteries, electronics, paint and chemicals may need dedicated collection.
Find a way to serve
Choose a cause you care about, the time you can offer, and the type of work that fits you. Ask what would help before donating or committing. Check current screening, age, accessibility and scheduling requirements directly.
- Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma: explore food-assistance volunteer opportunities.
- Tulsa SPCA: explore animal-care volunteer opportunities.
- Tulsa Day Center: explore ways to support neighbors facing housing challenges.
These are independent organizations; this resource does not imply a BFG partnership or scheduled group event.
Would renting or buying fit you better?
There is no single answer. Compare the full costs, how long you expect to stay, your savings cushion, and the flexibility you need. This worksheet organizes a conversation; it does not calculate affordability or a financial breakeven point.
| Consider | Renting | Buying |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly base payment | - | - |
| Taxes / insurance / fees / utilities | - | - |
| Upfront cash and moving costs | - | - |
| Repair responsibilities and reserve | - | - |
| Expected time in the area | - | - |
| Exit or selling costs | - | - |
| Savings remaining after moving | - | - |
| What matters most to me | - | - |
A down payment is an upfront cash commitment; principal may build equity. Home values can change, and repairs, financing and selling costs affect the result. Use actual local quotes and a lender's current estimates. CFPB homebuying budget guidance.