Summer Maintenance Tips

It’s summertime! While this may be associated with breaks, long pool days, and neighborhood BBQs; homeowners can’t get too comfortable. Now that summer is officially here; you'll want to prepare your home and yard for the barrage of summer heat.

Inspect air-conditioners. If you haven't already, consider replacing or cleaning your filters. An inspection and cleaning can be a DIY task, but any HVAC service company will be happy to schedule an appointment to fine-tune your units and change your filters. Show your A/C some love, and it will return the favor. Don't forget to check the surrounding landscape. You want to ensure your unit(s) are free and clear of any shrubbery, weeds, grass, etc., which can block the air vents and lessen the cooling capabilities.

Ceiling fan cleaning. It's always a good idea to clean your ceiling fans monthly, so if you haven't done it lately now is a great time. Clean each blade and the motors with a damp rag to remove any dust and debris that has built up.

Check window and door seals for leaks. When temperatures are on the rise, caulking and weather stripping can become brittle and break. When this happens, hot air can creep in and your cold air escape. Every little bit counts when you are staring down a 95-degree day. Don't forget to wash your windows. If you didn't tackle this in the spring, now is the time to get this checked off your list while you are inspecting the windows. Clean glass will give your house that extra sparkle when guests arrive for your backyard BBQ.

Roof love. Your roof is an essential part of your home – give it the care and attention it deserves to keep your home protected. The US has seen an unprecedented amount of storms and rain in the last few months. After a thunderstorm with high winds or hail, it’s always a good practice to do a quick scan of your roof for any damages. These signs may differ according to your roof type; read more on roof care with this nifty article for roof-specific signs of damage. Before the next storm rolls in, remove branches that are hanging over the roof just waiting to cause a headache for you later. It’s worth the extra time and sweat rather than waiting until the branch falls, ruins your roof, and ultimately causes water damage throughout your home.

Be a leak detective. Check your hoses and exterior faucets for leaks, even a tiny drip can add up to a big waste of water. Harsh winters can cause large and small problems with your outdoor faucets. Pinhole leaks can usually be covered up with electrical tape, but anything larger should be inspected by a plumber.

BBQ Ready. Everyone wants their cookout to be successful and not go up in flames, which is why it’s imperative to make sure your grill is properly cleaned and checked before attempting to show off your master grilling skills. Click here to learn more about proper grill cleaning from Lowe's Home Improvement.

Stop dirt at the door. We love to spend time outside in the summer, but the constant in and out tends to bring in more dust and dirt. Place a coarse mat at the exterior side of your door and a softer, cloth one on the interior to catch the most dirt. Better still, remove shoes upon entering the home. You can put out a basket for family and visitors to drop their shoes. If you live near a beach, a tub of water for sandy feet can be placed by the door to wash those sandy toes off.

Now you will be ready for a successful and stress-free summer!