Summer. The change of the seasons means a new set of tasks you should do to maintain your house in the heat. Here is a list of 15 summer home maintenance tips.
Service air-conditioning system
Get your air-conditioning system serviced. Contact a professional to get yearly maintenance done to ensure that your system works properly and lasts as long as possible.
Air-conditioning filters
Replace your A/C filters monthly. Since it is allergy season, consider purchasing a filter with a MERV rating of 13 to 16. These filters remove the smallest particles and bacteria from the air. These are best for people with allergies and asthma.
Test alarms
It is recommended that you test fire and carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month. Batteries should be replaced twice yearly, and alarms should be changed every ten years. Make sure that the alarms are clean, so they work effectively.
Faucets. Showerheads. Drains.
Clean faucet traps and showerheads throughout the house to minimize mineral buildup. Clean all drains and garbage disposals to eliminate smells. Do this with hot water and dish soap.
Fans
Dust the blades of your ceiling fans. Reverse the direction of the fans so they spin counterclockwise.
Windows
Wash your windows both inside and outside. Clean the windowsills and any screens that the window may have. Check if the window needs to be resealed with caulk.
Window treatments
Now that it is going to be hot and sunny, consider getting new, more efficient window treatments. This can include window shades and curtains. Blackout curtains help reduce the amount of light and heat entering the house, making the home cooler.
Clean gutters
Excess water and debris in gutters create a breeding ground for mosquitos and other pests. Clean your gutters to avoid unwanted pests.
Power wash
Power wash everything. Power wash the exterior of your house, deck, fences, driveway, sidewalks, and other outdoor concrete surfaces.
Clean the grill
Get the grill prepped for use. Clean the entire grill with heat. Use a grill brush to clean the inside and clean the outside with sponge and soap and water or another cleaner.
Garden
Get your garden ready. Exactly what you need to do varies on the type of garden you have. For instance, if you have a flower garden, consider putting down fresh mulch after planting new flowers and add lawn ornaments. Rid your garden of weeds weekly and remember to water your garden appropriately.
Pool
Clean your pool regularly. If you have a cover for your pool, use it when the pool is not in use. Keep up with pool maintenance including skimming and using appropriate chemical treatments.
Deck
Replace any damaged sections of your deck. If there are any nails that have become exposed, hammer them back down. Reseal if necessary.
Fence
Check around the perimeter to see if there are any holes under the fence that animals can get through. If necessary, repaint, re-stain, or reseal the fence.
Lawn
Manicure your lawn. Make sure to mow and remove weeds as necessary. Plant new grass in areas that grass is not growing.
We hope that this list of summer home maintenance tips can help you with your home this season.