Reminders

It’s our mission to help you win every day. Our daily reminders feature helps you remember the things you need to do on the days you need to do it.

Electrical Appliance

24 Aug
Electrical Appliance

Check the AC drain pipe for clogs

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Medium

Inspect your AC drain pipe for clogs to prevent water leaks and damage.

What you will need

  • Wet/dry vacuum
  • Garden hose
  • Wire coat hanger or drain snake
  • Flashlight

Steps to follow

  1. Turn off AC system and locate condensate drain line - typically a PVC pipe near outdoor unit or utility room.
  2. Check for standing water around indoor unit or water stains on walls indicating backup.
  3. Remove drain cap and inspect visible portion of pipe for obvious blockages or algae buildup.
  4. Use wet/dry vacuum to suction debris from drain line opening for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Flush line with garden hose from outside end, forcing water back toward indoor unit to clear remaining blockage.

Benefits

Avoid costly repairs

Prevents water damage repairs costing $500–$3,000

No need for repairman

Avoids AC service calls ($100–$250 per visit)

Maximise AC usage

Extends AC life by keeping the system moisture-free

23 Aug
Electrical Appliance

Check dishwasher door for mildew or mold and clean the seals

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Inspect dishwasher seals for mildew or mold and clean them to keep your appliance hygienic.

What you will need

  • Soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Mild bleach solution or vinegar
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Cotton swabs
  • Rubber gloves

Steps to follow

  1. Remove bottom dish rack to access lower door seal and inspect for black spots, discoloration, or musty odors.
  2. Mix 1 part bleach with 10 parts water or use white vinegar for cleaning solution.
  3. Dip toothbrush in solution and scrub door seals, paying attention to grooves and crevices where buildup occurs.
  4. Use cotton swabs dipped in solution to clean tight spaces and corners around door frame.
  5. Wipe down all cleaned areas with damp microfiber cloth to remove loosened debris and cleaning residue.
  6. Leave dishwasher door slightly open after cleaning to allow complete air drying and prevent moisture buildup.

Benefits

Avoid paying for replacement

Prevents $50–$125 door seal replacement costs from mold damage and deterioration

Keeps it around

Extends dishwasher life, avoiding early replacement ($400–$1,200)

Stay safe

Keeps dishes sanitary, reducing health risks

24 Jul
Electrical Appliance

Reverse your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise

Your ceiling fan is spinning the wrong way. Literally. It’s National Get Cool Day and with the summer heat beating down it’s the perfect time to fix it. A simple flip of the switch on the fan base is all it takes to make it spin counterclockwise. This pushes air down, making rooms feel cooler. No switch? Flip your remote settings. Small change, big chill.

26 Jun
Electrical Appliance

Clean refrigerator and freezer coils and empty and clean drip trays.

It’s World Refrigeration Day which is a smart reminder to maintain one of your most-used appliances. SO clean your refrigerator coils and empty the drip tray. It helps your fridge run more efficiently and last longer. Here’s how. Unplug the unit, then brush or vacuum the coils on the back or bottom. Don’t forget to empty and clean the drip tray to avoid buildup and odor.

22 Jun
Electrical Appliance

Inspect and service your air conditioning system

It’s summer and a broken AC is the last thing you want mid-heatwave. National HVAC Tech Day is a smart time to check your system before it becomes a problem. Inspect and service your air conditioning system. Step one: check your filters. Dirty ones are the number one cause of frozen AC units and emergency service calls. If your home’s feeling warmer than usual, this might be the fix. Replace filters every 1–3 months. While you’re at it, check your thermostat batteries. It’s a quick win that can save you time and money.

17 Jun
Electrical Appliance

Clean the range hood or kitchen exhaust fan filter

Summer cooking means more heat, more oil, and more buildup where you don’t want it. It’s also Clean Your Kitchen Vents Day, so it’s the perfect excuse to reset your kitchen. Most filters should be cleaned every 1–3 months but if you cook often or use oils regularly, once a month is smarter. Boiling water helps break down grease instantly. You can also add a tablespoon of baking soda to boost the degreasing effect. Use a grease-cutting dish soap like Dawn or Seventh Generation. Avoid anything with bleach, it can corrode the aluminum.

Gardening

25 Aug
Gardening

Install fencing or plant guards to protect garden from pests

Time to complete: 60 min

Difficulty: Medium

Use fencing or plant guards to keep pests from damaging your garden.

What you will need

  • Garden fencing
  • Fence posts or stakes
  • Wire cutters
  • Hammer or post driver
  • Zip ties or wire
  • Measuring tape

Steps to follow

  1. Identify target pests and select appropriate fencing.
  2. Measure garden perimeter and purchase extra fencing material to account for corners and overlaps.
  3. Drive fence posts every few feet around garden perimeter using hammer or post driver.
  4. Attach fencing to posts using zip ties or wire, ensuring bottom edge touches ground to prevent burrowing.
  5. Bury bottom 2–3 inches of fencing underground or bend outward to deter digging animals.
  6. Install gate or removable section for garden access and maintenance.

Benefits

No need for pesticides

Eliminates need for expensive pesticides and repellents costing $50–$150 per season

Save on seed costs

Protects investment in seeds, plants, and garden preparation time valued at $200+

Protects green investment

Avoids replanting costs and labor

31 Jul
Gardening

Ensure your doghouse is moved to a shady spot and has ventilation for air flow

If you’re hot, your dog’s hotter. It’s National Pet Backyard Safety Day. Let’s sort their shelter. Move the doghouse to a shady spot. Check for airflow to keep them cool—you can cut vents if needed. Add a cooling mat or frozen water bottle inside. Hydration and shade make one happy pup.

30 Jul
Gardening

Clean out irrigation filters and check sprinkler timers

Do you have brown patches on your lawn? Your sprinklers are slacking. It’s National Garden Sprinkler Day—let’s tune them up. Here’s how. Turn off the water. Remove and rinse filters, clean nozzles with a toothbrush, and test zones one by one. Reset your timers if it’s needed. Your garden deserves precision.

27 Jul
Gardening

Trim trees and bushes

Are your hedges looking a little haunted? It’s time for trim. It’s National Tree Day so let’s do some trimming. Use sharp pruners or shears to cut back dead limbs and shape bushes. For bigger trees, get a pole saw or call in a pro. Clear branches from walkways and windows. Neat garden, happy neighbours.

26 Jul
Gardening

Add a layer of mulch to help soil retain water

Your garden’s thirsty, and water’s not getting cheaper. It’s National Water Wise Gardening Day. Lay down 2–3 inches of mulch around plants—bark, straw, or compost works. It holds moisture, prevents weeds, and protects roots. Less watering, better results.

23 Jul
Gardening

Patch small holes in your hose pipe

Sprinklers are fun. A leaking hose? Not so much. It’s National Run Through a Sprinkler Day so let’s patch up your hose to keep the fun going. Find the leak, dry the area, and wrap with waterproof repair tape or use a hose repair kit. No duct tape—it won’t last. Water your lawn, not the driveway.

19 Jul
Gardening

Repair treehouse ladders, railings and support beams

If the ladder breaks mid-climb, it’s not ‘magical childhood memories’ anymore. It’s National Treehouse Safety Day—time for a proper check-up. Tighten screws, replace rotting wood, and shake-test railings. If the wood splinters or bends, it goes. No shortcuts here—small repairs prevent big accidents.

16 Jun
Gardening

Remove dead or damaged trees that could fall

Today’s task? Remove dead or damaged trees before they fall. Start by scanning for trees with split trunks, bare limbs, or fungal growth near the base. These are signs your tree may be unstable. Look for: Cracks or splits; bare branches, or mushrooms at the base. Don’t DIY this one a certified arborist can safely assess the risk and remove it before it becomes an emergency.

13 Jun
Gardening

Pull weeds from your lawn and garden

Summer’s heating up, and so is your lawn. Time to clear out the overgrowth. Target the roots, check your garden beds and walkways, and don’t toss seedy weeds into the compost. Knock it out now, your future self will thank you.

Home Renovation

26 Aug
Home Renovation

Check fences for any gaps or weak spots that pets could exploit to escape

Time to complete: 24 min

Difficulty: Easy

Inspect fence perimeter for holes, loose boards, and gaps underneath that allow pets to escape the yard.

What you will need

  • Flashlight
  • Shovel
  • Hammer
  • Nails or screws
  • Extra wood, wire, or boards

Steps to follow

  1. Walk the entire fence perimeter, examining each section for loose or missing boards, broken pickets, or bent chain link.
  2. Check ground level along the fence line for holes or gaps where pets could dig under or crawl through.
  3. Test fence stability by gently pushing on posts and boards to identify loose connections or rotting wood.
  4. Examine gate hinges, latches, and closures to ensure they function properly and close securely.
  5. Measure any gaps larger than your pet's head, as animals can often squeeze through surprisingly small openings.
  6. Note locations and sizes of problems found for repair planning.

Benefits

Don't lose your furry friend

Reduces risk of liability if a pet escapes and causes damage

No pricey vet bills

Avoids potential $475–$1,080+ veterinary bills from traffic accidents or injuries while loose

Stay secure

Extends fence life by fixing small issues before full replacement

29 Jul
Home Renovation

Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts

Rain’s coming. Is your gutter ready or growing its own forest? It’s Rain Day, so it’s time to clear the gutters. Use gloves and a scoop to pull out leaves, twigs, and muck. Flush the downspouts with a hose. Check for any clogs and cracks. Doing this quick task will keep water flowing where it should and down your walls.

28 Jul
Home Renovation

Check attic for signs of damage

When’s the last time you actually went up to check your attic? It’s National Attic Day, the perfect time to take a look. Check for water stains, animal droppings, mould, or chewed wires. Bring a flashlight and be cautious on beams. Catch problems early before they leak into the rest of your house.

25 Jul
Home Renovation

Inspect pool covers and gates

Pool safety starts before anyone swims. It’s National Drowning Prevention Day. Check your barriers. Inspect pool gates for latching properly, and pool covers for holes or wear. Repair broken locks and make sure fences meet safety codes. Prevent access to prevent disaster.

22 Jul
Home Renovation

Review your mice and rat pest control

If you hear scratching at night, it’s not a ghost—it’s worse. It’s National Rat Catcher’s Day. Time for a rodent check. Look for droppings, chew marks, and entry points. Use traps, steel wool for gaps, and clear out food sources. For infestations? Call a pro. Rats don’t pay rent—they’ve got to go.

21 Jul
Home Renovation

Repair balcony and deck railings

If your railing wobbles, don’t lean on hope. It’s National Railing Safety Day. Time to tighten things up and keep everyone on the balcony. Use a drill or wrench to tighten bolts and screws. For wood, check for rot or splinters. Reinforce loose sections and test with your body weight. Safety first, style second.

20 Jul
Home Renovation

Replace missing or damaged roof shingles

Your roof shouldn’t look like it’s balding. It’s National Roof Shingles Day, the perfect time to patch things up. From a ladder or using binoculars, inspect your roof. Look for curling, missing, or cracked shingles. Use roofing cement and a replacement shingle to cover the gaps. It’s a quick fix with a long-term payoff.

18 Jul
Home Renovation

Check your basement for humidity, mold and sump pump, if you have one

Basements love damp and that’s why mold loves basements. It’s National Basement Inspection Day—let’s take a torch and go spelunking. Use a moisture meter if you’ve got one, or just follow your nose. Look for water stains, mold patches, or pooling near walls. If you’ve got a sump pump, test it. One bucket of water now beats one flood later.

14 Jul
Home Renovation

Check your property for spots where bugs could enter

If bugs are treating your home like a hotel, here’s why. It’s National Check Your Foundation Day. Here are our tips on how to do it. Walk the perimeter of your house. Look for cracks, gaps in brickwork, broken seals around pipes or vents. Use caulk or expanding foam to seal them. Bugs out, peace in.

Interior Decoration

22 Aug
Interior Decoration

Clean out the pantry of expired items

Time to complete: 30 min

Difficulty: Easy

Remove expired and spoiled food items from your pantry to prevent pest infestations and food poisoning.

What you will need

  • Trash bags
  • Cleaning cloth or paper towels
  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Storage containers (optional)

Steps to follow

  1. Remove all items from pantry shelves, placing them on a counter or table for easy inspection.
  2. Check expiration dates on each item. Look for "best by," "use by," or "expiration" dates printed on packaging.
  3. Inspect canned goods for dents, rust, or swelling. Discard any damaged cans regardless of expiration date.
  4. Examine dry goods like flour, rice, and cereal for signs of insects, webbing, or unusual odors.
  5. Wipe down all pantry shelves with all-purpose cleaner before returning items.
  6. Place items back in pantry with earliest expiration dates in front for easy access.

Benefits

Stop food waste

Prevents monthly food waste from expired items going unused

No need for pest control

Avoids $100-$300 pest control costs from insect or rodent infestations

Save on your grocery bill

Saves money by avoiding duplicate purchases when the pantry is organized

08 Jul
Interior Decoration

Sweep up old ash from your fireplaces

There’s a pile of ash in your fireplace older than your youngest child. It’s National Freshen Up Your Fireplace Day. Summer is a great time to clean your fireplace. Lay down a drop cloth, scoop out ash with a metal shovel, and vacuum the rest with a shop vac. Clean the glass doors and check for soot buildup. It’s cleaner, safer, and won’t smell like a campfire when winter comes around.

19 Jun
Interior Decoration

Check around kitchen and bathroom cabinets and around toilets for leaks

Today’s task? Check around your kitchen and bathroom cabinets and behind your toilets for leaks. It’s a quick one, but it can save you a ton down the line. Start under your kitchen sink and look for water stains, soft wood, or a musty smell. In the bathroom, run your fingers along the base of the cabinet. Any bubbling or soft spots could mean there’s a slow leak. Around your toilet, check the floor for any damp spots, discoloration, or gaps in the caulking. Found a problem? Shut the water off and call a plumber or fix it before it becomes a bigger mess. If something’s off act fast. Small leaks mean big bills later.