It’s summertime
Summers can be hot, but your house doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help make your summer enjoyable!
indoor summer maintenance
smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Preform a test on them and replace batteries if needed.
get your cooling system ready
Consider getting your air-conditioning system serviced. Proper air conditioner maintenance can help your AC last longer and prevent air conditioner fires. This one is especially important for summer home maintenance since you don’t want to be stuck without air conditioning.
dryer and exhaust vents
Clean out all of the dust and lint trapped in the vent and exhaust duct. Call in a professional to clean and service your washer and dryer if needed. Dryers can be a fire hazard if they’re not cleaned and maintained.
check your attic
Look for signs of leaks, dampness, mildew, holes and pests.
outdoor summer maintenance
get your grill ready
Charcoal grills: Empty the grill and wipe away any dust or residue. Use hot water, dish soap, and a scrub brush or sponge to clean both the outside and inside of the grill. Be sure to let your grill dry off before using it next.
Gas grills: Close the lid, turn the heat up high, and let the grill cook for about half an hour. Let the grill cool. Use a grill brush to sweep the grill. Wipe down the outside with a sponge and cleaner. Then clean out all of the drip trays.
give your deck a once-over
Check your deck to see if there are any boards that look like they’re rotting. Have them replaced.
Hammer any nails that are loose.
You can also check if your deck needs to be resealed by pouring a little water on it. If the water beads into little puddles, you’re good. If it sinks into the wood, you should get your deck resealed against water.
check for outdoor leakes
Go on a hunt for leaks by checking all outdoor faucets. Then look at your hose. You can waste a lot of water if there’s even a tiny hole in your hose. Use electrical tape to repair any small holes in your hose.
clean gutters and downspouts
You should clean these out at least once a year, maybe twice if you have a lot of trees.
